PARTNERS THAT
MAKE THIS PROGRAM POSSIBLE:

Are you passionate about food and ready to turn your love for cooking into a successful business? Whether you dream of opening a food truck, starting a catering service, or launching your own restaurant, the Culinary Entrepreneurship Program is here to guide you. Our comprehensive, hands-on training and expert mentorship will help you navigate the complex world of food business ownership, from mastering legal requirements to building a strong brand.

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About the Culinary Entrepreneurship Program

Our Culinary Entrepreneurship Program is dedicated to supporting passionate food entrepreneurs by providing the resources, education, and mentorship needed to turn culinary dreams into thriving businesses.

This program was designed with a mission to foster economic growth, celebrate culinary traditions, and empower entrepreneurs in our community.

Learn more about our mission and vision here.

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Key Benefits:

 

Navigate Legal Requirements with Ease:
Understand the necessary licenses, permits, and regulations to operate your food business legally and avoid costly mistakes.

Perfect Your Product:
Learn how to refine your recipes to ensure your products meet industry standards and are ready for market success.

Build a Strong Brand:
Create a unique brand identity that resonates with your target customers and stands out in the competitive food industry.

Master Marketing:
Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy to effectively attract and retain loyal customers, boosting visibility and engagement.

Scale Your Operations:
Receive practical guidance on scaling your business from a community kitchen to a larger space, setting your operations up for growth.

Increase Your Revenue:
Learn proven strategies to boost sales, optimize profits, and grow your bottom line through smart business decisions.

Access Free Childcare:
Benefit from free childcare services to support your journey while you focus on growing your business.

Grant  Cohort:
Take advantage of a limited, grant grant opportunity designed to support aspiring food entrepreneurs in their business endeavors. You do not need to participate in grant track in order to take advantage of the Culinary Entrepreneur Program.

Workshop Series Details

Dates:

Tuesdays 5:30-7:30PM

 

February 25 - April 1, 2025

 

In Person - Redding Location

 

Free

 

Register

Register today and get access to:

  • Session 1: Reality Check- Business Basics
    FEBRUARY 25 

    In this introductory session, we’ll take a hard look at what it takes to turn your business idea into a successful venture. From understanding market demands to assessing your financial readiness, this class is designed to provide a solid foundation for your entrepreneurial journey. Get ready to challenge your assumptions and prepare for the realities of the business world.

  • Session 2: Working in a Commercial Kitchen
    MARCH 4 

    In this hands-on workshop, we’ll explore the critical aspects of transitioning from a home kitchen to a commercial kitchen setting. From understanding the key differences and necessary documentation to mastering time management and equipment use, this session is designed to equip you with the practical tools needed for success. Join us to streamline your kitchen operations, optimize your workflow, and build a solid foundation for your food business. Get ready to transform how you work and set the stage for your culinary success! 


  • Session 3: Basic Food Handling & Scaling your Recipes 
    MARCH 11

    In this comprehensive workshop, we'll cover crucial aspects of food handling and scaling recipes for commercial production. From understanding food safety practices to scaling recipes for larger batches, this session is designed to provide practical knowledge and tools to help you succeed in the food industry. Prepare to enhance your food handling skills, streamline your recipe scaling process, and optimize your operations for a thriving business.
  • Session 4: Streamlining your Food Business
    MARCH 18

    In this intensive workshop, we’ll dive into the core strategies needed to optimize your food business for peak performance. From mastering cash flow management and effective pricing to streamlining operations and reducing waste, this session is designed to equip you with practical tools and insights. Get ready to refine your approach, enhance your efficiency, and boost your profitability with actionable strategies that can transform your business.

    Session 5: Slicing & Dicing the Numbers-Financial Management
    MARCH 25

     In this essential workshop, we delve into the critical back-office functions that keep your food business running smoothly. From setting up and managing your business bank accounts to handling payroll, sales taxes, and inventory, this session will equip you with practical knowledge and tools to streamline your operations. Learn how to select the right POS and accounting systems to support your business, reduce waste, and track key performance indicators with confidence. Join us to refine your back-office management and enhance your restaurant's efficiency and profitability
  • Session 6: Foundations of Sales & Marketing
    APRIL 1

    In this final workshop of the series, we'll explore advanced strategies for enhancing your brand presence and expanding your market reach. You’ll learn how to develop a strong brand identity, create a compelling online presence, and leverage social media to connect with your target audience. We’ll also cover essential steps for launching your products at farmers markets and pop-up events, and provide strategies for marketing to grocery stores.

How to Enroll

Ready to Start?

 

Workshop Enrollment Information

When you enroll in this workshop, you can choose to take one course or complete all six. If you complete all six courses, you will receive a certificate of completion. Each course includes its own materials, and all content will be accessible to you indefinitely from the date of purchase.

Course Delivery

All classes are held in person. However, one-on-one sessions with expert trainers will be conducted online.

Cost & Application Requirements

There is no cost to participate in the program. However, due to grant and donor requirements, all participants must complete an application prior to the program. Rest assured, any sensitive information you provide is securely protected and reported anonymously.

Additional Client Benefits

As a new WBC client, you'll also gain access to exclusive benefits, including invitations to events, workshops, our learning library, and one-on-one sessions with other business development experts.

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Grant 

Opportunity

Exclusive $1,000 Grant Opportunity

We’re offering a $1,000 grant to participants who join the program and wish to be considered for the grant. Spots are limited. You do not need to be pursuing the grant to join the program, but if you would like to be considered for the grant, please indicate your interest in your application.

For more details and to apply for the grant, please visit our Grant Page.

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Making Participation Easy

 

 

We’re committed to creating access for all aspiring entrepreneurs:

  • Free Childcare: To support parents and caregivers, the Women’s Business Center at JEDI offers complimentary childcare during class sessions.
  • Financial Support: The program itself is free, ensuring that everyone, regardless of resources, can participate.

Apply today to gain access to this unique program, unlock your potential, and join a supportive community of food entrepreneurs!

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Meet Your Instructors

Join the Program to Learn from the Best

Why This Program Matters

For Entrepreneurs:
The program empowers aspiring chefs and food business owners with the tools, knowledge, and mentorship needed to thrive. Whether you’re starting small or dreaming big, we provide essential resources to help you overcome challenges, increase profitability, and ensure long-term success in the competitive food industry.

For Communities:
By supporting local food entrepreneurs, we strengthen community connections, create new job opportunities, and contribute to the vibrancy of the local culinary landscape. A thriving food business ecosystem leads to a more resilient economy and enriched experiences for everyone.

For Ease:
Our program focuses on opportunities by offering free services, grants, and free childcare to ensure that all aspiring food entrepreneurs have a chance to succeed.

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This program is made possible by a joint collaboration between, Women's Business Center at Jedi, BITE-Business Incubator for Tomorrow's Eateries and

Alacrity Destination Services 

Don't Miss This Opportunity
Questions? Please get in touch.