Celebrating Culinary Talent and Industry Innovation
On November 17, 2025, Entrepreneurial Equity Partners (e2p) hosted A Taste of Innovation at PLMA with Rick Bayless, an invitation-only event at Crust Brewing in Rosemont, IL. The gathering brought together more than 75 food entrepreneurs, operators, and executives to celebrate the dynamic e2p ecosystem and connect with one of America’s most respected culinary figures.
About Entrepreneurial Equity Partners (e2p)
Entrepreneurial Equity Partners (e2p) is a Chicago-based private equity firm specializing in food and consumer packaged goods. The firm brings together founders, operators, and innovators to help build the next generation of food brands and manufacturing partners. With deep experience across supply chain, R&D, and operations, e2p is committed to strengthening the food ecosystem and supporting long-term industry growth.
About Rick Bayless
Rick Bayless is a pioneering American chef celebrated for elevating authentic regional Mexican cuisine. He gained national prominence after winning Bravo’s Top Chef Masters, where his dedication to Mexican cooking earned him the title. He is also the host of Mexico: One Plate at a Time, an Emmy-nominated Public Television series that introduced millions to the complexity of Mexican culinary traditions. Rick Bayless has reshaped Chicago’s dining landscape through his award-winning restaurants, and has received multiple awards. In 2016, he received the Julia Child Foundation Award for his profound impact on American food culture.
The Collaboration: “A Taste of Innovation at PLMA”
At the e2p-hosted event, Rick Bayless led a culinary experience that showcased both his craft and his decades-long influence on the food industry. Through curated tastings, stories, and behind-the-scenes insight, guests had the opportunity to engage directly with the chef and celebrate the innovation that drives both Bayless and e2p.
The evening highlighted e2p’s commitment to bringing together leaders across the food ecosystem from early-stage entrepreneurs to seasoned operators while celebrating the culinary excellence that Bayless continues to embody. The partnership between Rick Bayless and e2p works seamlessly because both share a deep commitment to innovation, community, and the Chicago food landscape. Bayless has built his career on exploring regional Mexican cuisine with authenticity and creativity, while e2p champions innovation in food manufacturing, operations, and product development, making their collaboration a natural fit. Their shared Chicago roots strengthen the relationship further, as both have played influential roles in shaping the city’s culinary reputation and reinforcing its position as a national leader in food and hospitality.
Additionally, both Bayless and e2p are dedicated to supporting growth within the industry: Bayless through mentoring young chefs and educating home cooks, and e2p through empowering entrepreneurs and operators across the food ecosystem. Together, they elevate the future of food by uplifting talent, fostering connection, and inspiring continued innovation.