FoodLab

How to start a food-based business business course

Kitchen of Purpose's Signature Program provides low-income culinary entrepreneurs with training in six distinct modules on How to Start a Food-Based Business, the opportunity to formalize their businesses, obtain mentorship and advisory services, and receive discounted shared kitchen rates for six months of production following the training.

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Program Components

Following an entry point assessment, participate in six training workshop sessions during the nine week, part-time, course.

As you attend workshops, follow our step by step Guide to complete the shared kitchen eligibility requirements. These items will ensure your preparedness to start in the kitchen following the nine week course.

Receive expert help in various business areas from our on-site Small Business Counselor.

Match with one of our Technical Advisory Volunteers, professionals with diverse backgrounds, who are ready to assist you with any projects or questions.

Utilize our kitchen to test your recipes and receive feedback from our experienced staff.

Once you complete the training modules, qualified members receive a 30% discount on their shared kitchen rental.

Combined with your campaign results, you have the opportunity to begin production while paying a fraction of the market rate costs!

Expected Outcomes

Module 1: Introduction to Entrepreneurship
Module 2: Business Concept Development
Module 3: Financing
Module 4: Writing a Business Plan
Module 5: Business Formalization and Set-Up
Module 6: Business Launch and Operations

Register your business as an LLC
Register with the IRS for your state & federal tax numbers, or EIN
File for your business license(s)
Register with state and local authorities for purposes of taxes and other regulatory requirements
Receive your ServSafe or comparable Food Manager's Certification
Comply with all health department requirements
Purchase liability insurance with the Kitchen of Purpose listed as additional insured

We provide assistance and support starting from the very beginning.

If you're a start-up, simply have an idea, or have been affected by COVID-19 and need the knowledge and skills needed to re-launch in today's competitive markets, we are here for you.

Limited Spots Available

Submit your Application to be considered for the program. Applications are processed on a firstcome-first-serve basis. Please contact us if you have any questions before applying.

Apply Now!

Do you want to start your own food business?

To be eligible, you must be:

18 years old or older

Low Income (verification required)

A resident of DC, Maryland, or Virginia

Able to speak, write and comprehend

English, Spanish or both languages

A current or aspiring culinary business

owner with a strong desire to develop and

launch or improve a business in the foodservice industry.

Please note that to produce at our Shared Kitchen at the end of your Training membership, you must complete the Shared Kitchen Eligibility Checklist Requirements .