Founders Forum

Where Big Ideas Begin

Founders’ Forum is a dynamic speaker series where visionary company leaders share the real stories behind their entrepreneurial journeys. Students, faculty, and the community gain firsthand insight into the challenges, risks, and breakthroughs that define the path of innovation and venture creation. Designed to inspire the next generation of changemakers within Cleveland State University and beyond.

Founders' Forum is a free program that takes place on Thursday's from 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. and includes lunch. 

Thursday, February 12, 2026: Drew Anderson - Cleveland Kitchen

Drew Anderson is an entrepreneur and Cleveland State University alumnus, where he earned a degree in Operations Management and Business Statistics. He grew up immersed in food and entrepreneurship - his mother, a biologist turned chef, helped launch Cleveland’s local farmers markets more than 30 years ago. From an early age, Drew spent his time running markets, working alongside farmers, and learning how food businesses are built from the ground up.

After college, Drew began his career in big data and analytics, working at SunTrust and KeyBank. In 2014, he combined his analytical background with his lifelong connection to food to found Cleveland Kitchen. The company has since grown into the #1 fresh sauerkraut, kimchi, and fermented foods brand in the United States, raising over $30 million in equity capital along the way. Drew continues to lead Cleveland Kitchen’s growth, applying data-driven thinking, operational discipline, and entrepreneurial creativity to scaling a mission-driven food brand.

Thursday, April 23, 2026: Babe Chuppa, Babe's Cafe & Bakery

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Jim Kandrac

The Fornari Family