Ground Up PDX

Small-batch nut butters are the core offering, made in a Portland kitchen by women overcoming adversity. The food business pairs production work with a six-month apprenticeship program, where participants earn a paycheck and build skills and experience to move toward self-sufficiency. Training includes food safety, communication, computer skills, goal setting, and interview preparation. Ground Up also reports program outcomes, including participant graduations, employment, and housing. Its products include seasonal flavors such as Pumpkin Pie, and the site shares ways to use the nut butters in smoothies, yogurt bowls, toast, oatmeal, and baked goods. Ground Up is based in Portland.