Unlock the full potential of your food business with our 8-week course designed to accommodate a variety of concepts. Whether you are looking to grow into a storefront, purchase a food truck, or expand your business’ wholesale reach, our program equips you with essential processes, resources, and connections to help you reach your goals. This curriculum encompasses a broad spectrum of subjects crucial to running a food business, and each class is taught by experienced industry experts.
Graduation from Growing Into a Storefront is a prerequisite for the Findlay Launch Residency. This course is $500 with an additional $100 fee to bring a business partner.
Course Breakdown
Week 1: Leadership & Culture
Week 2: Branding
Week 3: Marketing & Promotions
Week 4: Operations
Week 5: Financial Management & Best Practices
Week 6: Storefronts: Buying, Leasing, and Design
Week 7: State of the Industry Panel
Week 8: Graduation Ceremony
Application Criteria
Must be a food-focused business
Must be in business for at least 1 year
Special consideration for women-, BIPOC-, and/or immigrant-owned mid-stage food businesses
Timeline
Applications Open: November 1
Applications Close: January 5
Final Interviews: January 6 - 17
Selection: January 20
Course Begins: February 10
Graduation: March 31
About Findlay Learn
Findlay Learn is a Findlay Market program dedicated to food business education for entrepreneurs. Our programming connects current and future food entrepreneurs with knowledge, support, and access to opportunities. Findlay Learn builds on Findlay Market’s principles of driving economic activity, social interaction, and an inclusive experience for all, by placing food entrepreneur needs, support, and access, at the core of our focus. We strive to empower and embrace the wealth of culture and diversity that is needed to advance and sustain a vibrant food ecosystem right here in the heart of our city.
The goal is to support those interested in, and those already in, the industry, as they build successful sustainable food-focused businesses. With curriculum-based courses, workshops, info sessions, and industry panels, and a focus on supporting BIPOC, women and immigrants, participants will find a diverse, supportive community and a clearer pathway to their next step.
