This paper discusses the application of university extension practice in the establishment of new tourism enterprises, with a particular focus on culinary tourism enterprises. The discussion is framed by the ‘missions’ perspective of university function, noting that extension is a form of knowledge transfer falling within the ‘Third Mission’ of universities. A case study approach is used to show how universities can achieve knowledge transfer to improve business capability in establishing culinary tourism enterprises. The case study is the Tourism Business Development Program of Southern Cross University in Australia, entailing delivery of integrated training and mentoring for private landowners contemplating tourism enterprise development in rural areas. The case shows that, to be effective, extension in tourism enterprise development must tailor program delivery method to context. The case demonstrates how effective university extension can support culinary tourism enterprise development, thereby also contributing to tourism destination development and regional development. The case notes the relationship of extension in universities’ ‘Third Mission’ and its ramifications for institutional societal relevance.