Crowdfunding campaign launched for Lutunji’s Palate Bakery & Cafe to support the purpose-driven dessert company’s expansion into a downtown Minneapolis location Lutunji’s Palate already offers delectable vegan desserts with purpose by inviting local teens, young adults, and men returning to work after incarceration into the kitchen to learn about baking, running a business — and life-skilling.
Lutunji’s Palate, a Black woman owned bakery company, recently launched an iFundWomen crowdfunding campaign to expand its purpose-driven dessert business by opening its first permanent location in Elliot Park. Lutunji’s Palate Bakery & Cafe will be an asset to the neighborhood and broader Minneapolis by providing a gathering place for people to build community over delectable desserts.
Lutunji’s Palate has already outgrown two commercial kitchens, and in order to expand the business and Lutunji’s commitment to the community, a much bigger space is needed.The beautiful space for the Bakery & Cafe has already been secured at the Gatsby in Elliot Park (1400 Park Ave South, downtown Minneapolis), but funding is needed to build out the kitchen, bakery case, counter and seating.
Lutunji’s Palate partners with community based organizations that allow it to invite local teens, young adults, and men returning to work after incarceration into the kitchen to learn about baking, running a business — and life-skilling. Some of these community partners include:, Emerge Minnesota and Step Up. The new space will also feature a regular farmer’s market.This short two minute video summarizes Lutunji Palate’s purpose and future expansion details.
“I have been baking all my life and sharing desserts with the people I love. It is my love language’’, said Lutunji Abram, CEO of Lutunji’s Palate. “This new location with a dedicated commercial kitchen and retail space will allow me to touch more people’s lives in and outside the kitchen.”
“‘When I first met Lutunji, I saw right away she had a great vision, she is a very capable entrepreneur, and has a great product idea and I wanted to support her to achieve her vision”, said John “Mendy” Mendesh, a former general Mills Executive. “Her passion and commitment to deliver premium quality desserts and build a business with a strong sense of community is an inspiration to all.”
There already has been strong community support for this campaign. In the first week, the campaign has raised thousands of dollars, but there is still additional need for funding before Ms. Lutunji can purchase the necessary equipment and supplies. Visit Lutunji’s Palate Bakery & Cafe IFundWomen for more information or to make a contribution.
Ms. Lutunji Abram is available for live or pre-recorded interviews and free samples can be made available at your request.
About Lutunji’s Palate: Lutunji’s Palate is a social enterprise founded in 2018, fueled by love and built with purpose. Lutunji Abram, M.A. is the baker and founder who works tirelessly to leverage her passion for scrumptious treats to bring effective change to our community. Some of the delicious baked goods available for purchase are her famous Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, Harriet’s Escape Peach Cobbler, and Coconut Macaroons (most of which are plant-based). Lutunji’s Palate Gourmet desserts are available at select Lunds & Byerly’s locations, North Market, Minneapolis Farmers Market Annex, Seasoned Specialty Market, Plant Based pop up market, Handsome Hog, Pimento Kitchen and the Gnome.
