Eastern Shore Entrepreneurship Center (DBA Chesapeake Agriculture Innovation Center)

CAIC is committed to supporting and nurturing the business growth of farmers and producers in the agriculture and aquaculture sectors. We believe in their power and potential, and recognize their crucial role in the regional food supply chain. When our farmers and producers thrive, our entire region can thrive.

The Chesapeake Agriculture Innovation Center (CAIC) began in 2020 as an initiative of the non-profit Eastern Shore Entrepreneurship Center (ESEC). Founded in 2004, ESEC promotes economic development in the agriculture and aquaculture sectors—two industries that have traditionally been integral to our region.

In founding CAIC, we sought to create a dedicated resource hub specifically for the region’s farmers and value-added producers. Today, our team provides tailored education and training, consulting services, access to capital, and other tools to support agribusiness development. From product development to scaling, and from produce safety training to grant writing, we’re here to help you grow.