University of Nevada, Reno Extension Supports Small Business in Complexities of Starting Food Systems Business
Background
Jason is the owner of Ragnarök Fireside Grill, a bold and flavorful food truck business based in North Las Vegas, Nevada. Specializing in fire-kissed meats and Viking-inspired BBQ feasts, Ragnarök Fireside Grill brings handcrafted, locally sourced meals to customers through both mobile service and pre-order feast platters. Jason faced challenges such as gaining the required licensing, successful marketing, business planning and other issues common to starting and growing a small business. Then he found Southwest Regional Food Business Center (SWRFBC) partner University of Nevada, Reno Extension, and their suite of technical assistance and support for businesses like his.
Our Response
Through SWRFBC partner, University of Nevada, Reno Extension, Kelli Kelly provided a range of targeted support to Jason of Ragnarök Fireside Grill. Her technical assistance included step-by-step guidance on licensing, outlining required permits, and compliance criteria. She also supported branding and marketing strategy, conducted a website and social media audit with the help of University of Nevada, Reno student interns from the Nevada Small Business Development Center, and offered hands-on assistance with operations planning, menu development, and recipe costing. Kelli and Jason worked together to identify strategic approaches to business growth, ensuring Ragnarök Fireside Grill could scale sustainably while staying true to its fire-kissed, flavor-first identity.
Through SWRFBC partners University of Nevada, Reno Extension and Nevada Small Business Development Center, he received support to navigate the complex process of launching and formalizing a food systems business, ensuring that his fire-forward vision could scale sustainably while meeting compliance and regulatory needs.
Our Impact
Thanks to support and technical assistance from the SWRFBC, Jason gained clarity on critical next steps for business planning, operations, and long-term strategy, equipping him with both confidence and direction as he continues building his brand.
“The technical assistance you’ve provided through the [SWRFBC] has been invaluable in helping me navigate the complex steps of starting our food systems business. Your guidance has clarified critical processes, from business planning to compliance, and has given me the confidence to move forward. I truly appreciate the dedication and expertise you bring to supporting small businesses like mine. I look forward to continuing our partnership with the SBDC as we work to provide our community with locally sourced, high-quality foods.”—Jason of Ragnarök Fireside Grill
