A Recipe for Growth

How Erika Durham Built EWK in Focus

Erika Durham, founder of EWK in Focus, describes her business as hospitality strategy, essentially restaurant consulting, but deeper and more hands-on. From staff training and beverage planning to recipe development and menu engineering, EWK in Focus serves as a one-stop shop for culinary businesses looking to strengthen both their operations and their guest experience. Her approach blends creativity with structure, helping clients build systems that are as thoughtful as their food.

What sets Erika apart is the breadth of her experience. She jokes that she’s “done everything” — and it’s not far from the truth. With a degree in Culinary Arts from Le Cordon Bleu, Erika has also trained as a Pizzaiolo and studied wine under a master sommelier, holding an international spirits qualification. It’s rare for a chef or culinary consultant to bring that kind of cross-functional expertise to the table, so this range inspired her to create a business that reflects her unique skill set and holistic approach to hospitality.

Recently, EWK in Focus reached a major milestone: signing its largest client to date. After a year of six-month contracts, the partnership expanded into a full-year agreement, with a significant fee increase. The client’s renewed commitment signals trust and confidence in her work, and for Erika, it’s a powerful validation that her strategy, consistency, and hard work are paying off.

Years ago, Erika watched colleagues go through the Community Business Academy at Sunshine Enterprises and saw the transformation in their businesses. At the time, she was building the structure of her own company and enrolled in CBA to solidify that foundation. Through the program and with support from business coaches, she strengthened her business model and built lasting connections. As a solopreneur, she continues to collaborate with Sunshine alumni for curated events and food vendor partnerships as well as a Site Monitor for our South Shore Artisans cohort.

Today, Erika is a strong believer in the power of Sunshine Enterprises. She regularly encourages others to enroll, calling it an accessible and invaluable investment. From coaching and credit-building guidance to workshops and grant education, she credits the program’s ongoing support with helping her stay sharp and strategic. For anyone serious about building a business, she says, “It’s one of the best places to put all the pieces together for success.”

Follow EWK in Focus:
Website: www.ewkinfocus.com
Facebook: The Chef Erika Page
Instagram: @ewkinfocus
LinkedIn: Erika Durham