Express Program
The Express Program is one of Kitchen of Purpose’s responses to COVID-19. It provides low-income culinary entrepreneurs with the opportunity to formalize their business, receive training in key business functions, obtain mentorship and advisory services, and receive discounted shared kitchen rates for six months of production. The program is open to both English and Spanish speakers.
Program Components
Business Formalization
Follow our step by step Guide to complete the eligibility requirements.
One-on-One Consulting
Receive expert help in various business areas from our on-site Small Business Counselor.
Mentorship & Advisory
Match with one of our Technical Advisory Volunteers, professionals with diverse backgrounds, who are ready to assist you with any projects or questions.
Product Testing
Utilize our kitchen to test your recipes and receive feedback from our experienced staff.
Discounted Shared Kitchen Rates
Qualified applicants receive a 30% discount on their shared kitchen rental.
From there, members raise 50% of the membership package costs by participating in a crowdfunding campaign. Our communications team will help you launch the campaign and market you and your business.
These measures will enable you to begin production while paying a fraction of the market rate costs.
Training
Following an entry point assessment, you will be given the opportunity to participate in training workshops to strengthen your business.
Expected Outcomes
Clients must complete the Eligibility Checklist Requirements found below.
Our experienced staff are ready to help you complete each requirement.
Members can expect to begin production in as little as three weeks, depending on readiness.
We are confident that this structure will help you begin, pivot, or continue operating your food-based business.
- 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
- Open a business bank account
- Established a basic accounting system and processes for entering transactions/keeping accounting up to date