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PROGRAMS

Foodpreneur Advantage 

The Foodpreneur Advantage offers the Scale Up Program, designed specifically for food production and distribution businesses that demonstrate high growth potential.

This 10 week program will provide business owners with access to industry experts, customized workshops and peer to peer discussion circles, that will provide the knowledge and tools necessary to successfully scale their businesses.

Class sizes are limited, and this is a competitive process. 

Our Programs

1. Subjects

  • Production Process & Shelf-Life Testing
  • Food Safety, Regulation & Traceability
  • Canadian Food Labelling Regulations
  • Connecting with Buyers Brokers & Distributors
  • How to Pitch your Product to National Chains
  • Product/Recipe Development and Food Innovation
  • How to Sell Your Products to Retailers
  • Navigating Packaging for your Food/Beverage Product
  • Managing Cash Flow for Profits, Today & Tomorrow
  • Marketing & Branding Strategies

2. Eligibility

  • Business must be post revenue, 1-3 years, and have an established consumer packaged good that has been tested in the market
  • Business must demonstrate strong growth potential and scalability
  • Business owner must commit to participate fully in the training and mentorship

3. Application Process

The application is a three-step process:

  1. The first step is to complete a brief online application to address basic eligibility requirements. The application will be available on this site mid-August. Individuals who meet the basic eligibility requirements will be invited to attend a group information session where they will be notified of critical dates, outline important details of the program and provide an opportunity to ask questions.
  2. The second step for those who remain interested, is to attend a two hour business proposal workshop. Applicants will be given two weeks to submit a brief proposal (6-8 pages) that outlines their growth potential. Proposals will be reviewed by an independent review panel.
  3. The third step is to meet with program staff to talk through your proposal and address any concerns that may have been raised by the review panel.

 

4. Funding Opportunity

Successful applicants may also be eligible to receive up to $5,000, available through partnering Small Business Centres, as part of their Starter Company training and grant programs.

The foundation for the grant application will be the same proposal submission and application process. There may be slight contract variations and requirements based on location. You can only apply for the grant in the county you reside and where the business is operated.

Tips to a successful application

If you are new to your local Small Business Centre, we encouraged you to introduce yourself. Do not wait for the application to make your first visit! Centre staff are there to help you grow your business. The further you are along in your business, the greater prepared you will be to seize this opportunity!

Visit the Foodpreneur Advantage website for a full list of services/webinars.

Foodpreneur Start-up Seminars