Starting a Food Business (English)

Thinking of starting a food business? Learn what it takes to turn your food dream into reality – whether from your home kitchen or an innovative restaurant format.

26 February 2025, 5:30PM 7:30PM

Southside Cultural Center, Floor 2 Theatre 

(Parking & Entrance on Brigham Street)

Embarking on a culinary business journey is both exciting and challenging. To navigate this path successfully, join us for an in-depth workshop led by Martha Perez-Barton, a seasoned Food Entrepreneurship Consultant and the Director of Incubation at Hope & Main. With her extensive experience in nurturing food startups, Martha will provide valuable insights into the diverse avenues within the food industry.


Key topics include:


  • Food Business Formats: Compare various business models— including food trucks, brick-and-mortar establishments, eCommerce brands and more—to determine the best fit for your goals.
  • Resource and Licensing Requirements: Gain a clear understanding of the necessary resources, permits and licenses required to operate legally and efficiently.
  • Cottage Food Laws: Learn how Rhode Island's Cottage Food Laws, effective since November 2022, empower entrepreneurs to start home-based food businesses. These laws allow the sale of specific homemade foods, providing a cost-effective entry into the market. 

This workshop is designed to equip aspiring food entrepreneurs with the knowledge needed to start transforming your culinary dreams into a commercial reality. Whether you're considering a small home-based operation or planning a larger venture, Martha's expertise will guide you through the essential steps to establish a successful food business in Rhode Island!

Southside Cultural Center, Floor 2 Theatre 

(Parking & Entrance on Brigham Street)

Maps app

Event Registration

All events are free. Space is limited for in-person events, so please register early.

⚠️For virtual events, you only need to register for one event and we will send you a link that includes all Zoom event access links. Please register for each in-person event separately.

Event Registration - Winter Workshop 2024/25

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