San Antonio is known for its flavor and its hustle—and this January, those two worlds are colliding right here at Pearl.
We are thrilled to announce a first-of-its-kind partnership between Trinity University and the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). From January 5 to 11, 2026, 30 students will step out of their traditional classrooms and into a high-stakes, one-week entrepreneurial bootcamp.
Where Liberal Arts Meets Culinary Innovation
What do you get when you mix Trinity’s expertise in business and the arts with the CIA’s world-class culinary mastery? A recipe for the next generation of San Antonio entrepreneurs.
During this immersive week, ten Trinity students and 20 CIA students will form mixed teams to tackle the ultimate challenge: taking a top-secret product from a simple idea to a market-ready venture.
More Than Just a Cooking Class
This isn’t just about what’s on the plate. It’s about the “why” and the “how” behind a successful business. Under the guidance of local mentors and industry leaders, students will dive deep into:
- Brand Storytelling: Crafting a narrative that captures the community’s heart.
- Business Strategy: Learning how to position a product in a competitive marketplace.
- Real-World Sales: Moving from the kitchen to the customer.
The bootcamp will bridge the gap between our neighbors, utilizing both the CIA’s San Antonio campus here at Pearl and Trinity University’s nearby campus. It’s a testament to why San Antonio is a premier destination for innovation and collaborative education.
Save the Date: The Public Grand Finale
The week of hard work culminates in a “Grand Finale” that involves you.
On Sunday, January 11, 2026, starting at 10 a.m., these student teams will set up shop at the Pearl Farmers Market. This is your chance to:
- Be the first to sample their top-secret creations.
- Experience their sales pitches in person.
- Watch as we crown the winning team of the 2026 Bootcamp!
Want to see these innovators in action? Join us at the Pearl Farmers Market on January 11 for this ticketed event to support the future of San Antonio’s culinary and business landscape. Stay tuned to our blog for a follow-up in late January to see which team took home the top prize!