On February 13th, the latest cohort of the Streets Ahead programme showcased their food businesses in front of a panel of experts from McCain and KERB, hoping to secure a £10,000 investment to launch their own Street Food businesses. With a focus on empowering people from less advantaged backgrounds and offering them a chance to thrive in the fast-paced world of street food, McCain’s Streets Ahead programme, powered by KERB+ has provided these entrepreneurs with more than just financial backing—it’s given them the support and guidance needed to succeed.
The six entrepreneurs who pitched at this latest panel day are not only building businesses; they are crafting unique food experiences that tell their stories and celebrate their cultures. Their dedication to quality, creativity, and innovation was on full display as each participant offered up their culinary creations to the panel, hoping to be selected for a life-changing £10,000 investment.
The Streets Ahead programme, is designed to support individuals from marginalised backgrounds who aspire to start their own street food businesses. Beyond financial support, the programme provides these entrepreneurs with one-on-one coaching, expert-led business development workshops, and invaluable mentorship from KERB’s team of street food experts. The result is a holistic approach to entrepreneurship that not only helps participants get their businesses off the ground but also ensures they have the tools and connections needed to sustain and grow their ventures in the long term.
The Entrepreneurs Behind the Food
One of the standout businesses from the latest panel day was Boemo, a pastry business created by Jasmine, a female refugee who has found a new beginning in London. Boemo’s signature offering is bomboloni, a freshly made Italian pastry with a variety of indulgent fillings like pistachio cream, tiramisu, and lemon meringue. What makes Boemo unique isn’t just its delectable pastries—it’s the story behind the brand. Jasmine’s journey, which began in hardship, is now transforming into a thriving business that combines traditional Italian recipes with a modern, adventurous twist. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and mindful indulgence, Boemo has the potential to become a favourite in London’s competitive street food scene.
Another standout business is Kettle Whips, founded by Mohamed, that takes street food to a new level with its innovative concept of “Jail Cuisine.” Inspired by the resourceful cooking techniques Mohamed learned during his time incarcerated, Kettle Whips focuses on meals cooked in a kettle, offering a unique dining experience. His dishes, like tuna burgers and sweet and sour mackerel with coconut rice, combine creativity with a personal narrative that resonates with urban youth. Mohamed’s story is one of resilience and innovation, showing that even in the most challenging circumstances, food can be a means of self-expression and connection.
Cleaver’s Kitchen, run by Gavin, blends Caribbean and Middle Eastern flavours to create mouthwatering sandwiches. Gavin’s love for cooking was ignited during his time in prison, where he honed his baking skills and refined family recipes passed down through generations. His business is a celebration of his heritage, with recipes like his grandmother’s famous coco bread and his mother-in-law’s kafta creating a fusion that is both nostalgic and innovative. Gavin’s story of overcoming adversity and using food as a vehicle for personal and professional growth is a testament to the power of the Streets Ahead programme.
Somalian Grill, founded by Amin, offers a traditional Somali dining experience with a modern twist. Drawing on recipes passed down from his family, Amin aims to introduce the vibrant flavours of Somalia to a broader audience. His dishes, like suqaar (Somali stir-fried meat) and sambusa (crispy savoury pastries), are rich in history and flavour. With the support of McCain and KERB, Amin is working to bring Somali food into the mainstream, highlighting its diversity and authenticity.
Finally, Chipsey Hustle, led by Lottie and Lam, is bringing a new twist to London’s street food scene with indulgent loaded fries topped with rich mac and cheese and gourmet toppings. Inspired by the community-driven ethos of rapper Nipsey Hussle, Chipsey Hustle is about more than just comfort food—it’s about creating a social impact. Lottie’s dedication to empowering young people through cooking classes and mentorship, along with her commitment to sustainability, is central to the business’s mission. As she works to give back to the community that supported her, Lottie’s journey is a reminder that street food can be both delicious and meaningful.
Support From McCain and KERB
What makes the Streets Ahead programme so impactful is its emphasis on providing ongoing support to entrepreneurs beyond the initial investment. Through one-on-one coaching and mentorship from KERB, participants can refine their business models, fine-tune their operations, and gain access to valuable networks within the street food industry. KERB’s expertise in the sector has been instrumental in helping these entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of starting and scaling a food business.
KERB’s coaches work closely with each participant, offering tailored advice on everything from business strategy and financial planning to menu development and building USPs. The goal is to equip these entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills they need to turn their passion for food into a sustainable business. Even those who don’t receive funding are given the tools and support to continue building their businesses, with opportunities for networking, further coaching, and access to KERB’s extensive community of street food vendors.
And McCain’s support goes far beyond financial investment. Alongside funding, McCain helps participants establish a strong brand presence, ensuring they are not just business-ready but also market-ready. Through branding support, marketing guidance, and amplification across McCain’s media channels, these entrepreneurs gain visibility and credibility, helping them to attract customers and grow their businesses. By endorsing them, McCain gives them a platform to share their stories and build their reputation—helping them carve out a space in the competitive street food scene.
Through McCain’s investment, branding support, and KERB’s mentorship, these entrepreneurs are being given the resources they need to succeed. For them, it’s not just about launching a food business—it’s about creating a lasting legacy, telling their stories, and making a positive impact on the communities they serve.
Looking Ahead
As the next cohort of entrepreneurs prepares to take their businesses to the next level, the future of the street food scene looks brighter than ever. McCain and KERB’s commitment to supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs ensures that these businesses will continue to thrive and grow, bringing exciting new flavours and experiences to the streets of London and beyond.
For the six entrepreneurs who pitched on February 13th, the Streets Ahead programme has provided not just funding but a foundation for success. As they continue to develop their businesses, they will be able to draw on the skills, knowledge, and connections gained through the programme, ensuring that they can create the next generation of street food businesses that are as diverse, exciting, and impactful as the people behind them.
