I'm going to accept a home cooked dinner from someone I don't want to date
Don't you think that is leading them on?
Maybe, I want to expand my social circle, it's good for business networking.
I think that you should make your feelings about them clear. It is wrong to lead someone on if you have no romantic feelings towards them.
You are right, but I'm afraid of being rejected and that I don't have the guts to ask them out.
Well if you do like them then you should tell them privately. If they feel the same way you could have  a wonderful relationship.