The ‘Food Starter Programme’ is a short programme . It will cover everything from an overview of the Irish food sector to the specifics of starting a food production business.

The objective is to provide the participants with a base knowledge of what is involved in setting up a food business. The content is designed to provide you with information which will allow you to avoid the pit falls normally associated with this journey. (The programme content assumes you have the required business knowledge to run your enterprise e.g. you must already understand the basics of setting up a business, tax compliance rules, creating a business plan etc.)

While certain aspects of the programme are relevant to those setting up cafes/restaurants, the core programme content is designed for those producing food to be sold through third parties i.e. food producers.

For those considering applying for the Food Academy Programme in the future, this programme will provide an excellent opportunity to boost your chances of securing a place.

The next programme will be run by Dublin City LEO over 2 workshops. It will be two full day in person events on the 11^th January & 25^th January (Clayton Hotel, Liffey Valley). For the first time ever, we are holding Saturday Food Starter workshops to facilitate those unable to attend on weekdays

(Please note this programme is for Dublin based participants only. If you are outside the Dublin area - Please check your Local Enterprise Office's website for details of their next Food Starter programme for your location). 

Note: Must participate on BOTH days (11^th  & 25^th January 2025)

Sessions Content

Day One: (11th January)

Clayton Hotel, Liffey Valley : Full day 9.30am to 17.00pm

The content will include:

• Feedback on your product idea from the workshop facilitator

• Understanding how to conduct research for your food business and how to complete a food business feasibility study

• Interpreting Irish food market trends and drivers

• Food safety overview

• Selecting the right channel to market for your product

Day Two (25^th January):

Clayton Hotel, Liffey Valley : Full day 9.30am to 17.00pm

The content will include:

• Costing and managing finance

• State agency supports and funding

• Distribution and logistics

• Identifying a unique positioning for the product

• Understanding branding and communicating the key brand messages

• Supports available for your food journey and where to next

Workshop Timings:

2 x Full day (11^th January & 25^th January) in person, Clayton Hotel, Liffey Valley: 9:30am - 17:00pm

Price

€100

*To register your interest for future Food Starter programmes please email: Melanie Flierenbaum Melanie@jamesburke.ie