The Collective Iowa broadens Fairfield’s food community vision

FAIRFIELD — The Collective Iowa, which began as the Fairfield Food Collective, has evolved into something far broader in mission and reach. The space has grown into a hub for local food innovation, business incubation, and community connection.

“We realized early on it wasn’t just about Fairfield, and it wasn’t just about food,” said Galen Saturley, a cofounder at The Collective Iowa. “The name change reflects our goal to support a broader community — from surrounding farms to other small towns across southeast Iowa.”

Housed in a shared manufacturing and retail space, Collective Iowa supports small businesses including Taco Dreams, Hedge Apple Kombucha, Marmalade Sky, and The Bakehouse, a sourdough bakery that sources local grains milled on-site. While each business maintains its independence, they benefit from collaboration and shared resources.

“We’re like a test kitchen and a focus group,” Galen explained. “Fairfield gives us feedback, and that helps us refine our products for wider distribution.”

The businesses under The Collective’s roof aren’t just focused on local success — they ship across Iowa and beyond. This outward reach helps sustain the small-town economy by bringing in outside revenue and building visibility for Jefferson County’s food entrepreneurs.

Looking ahead, The Collective Iowa plans to launch educational food classes through its kitchen studio. These classes — offered both in person and online — will teach food skills, sustainability practices, and deepen community ties through a shared appreciation for where food comes from.

“Everyone meets at the dinner table,” Galen said. “No matter our differences, food connects us. That’s what The Collective Iowa is all about.”

Visitors can shop, eat, or simply relax at The Collective, which is open Monday through Friday.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com