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 Entrepreneur Program is here to guide you.
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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.
Graduate Testimonial:
Ladle Full of Love
"Because homemade soup is a feeling… "
A new vendor at this year’s Mount Shasta Farmers’ Market and WBC Culinary Entrepreur Program Graduate,Tina Pollycut took a long path to starting her Ladle Full of Love soup business.Â
After almost 10 years of experimenting and developing my favorite recipes, I am ready to share my passion, nourishing those around me in my greater community in Shasta County, CA.Â
“I’ve always found value and satisfaction in connecting with the people I’m feeding,” Tina says of her appreciation for selling at farmers’ markets. She said the Mount Shasta market was a good fit because, “I’m always looking for health conscious communities, communities with people who value locally sourced, high vibration foods.”
Tina now sells her delicious homemade “Soups from the Heart” at farmers’ markets in Mount Shasta, Chico, Redding, and Weaverville, as well as in stores in Shasta and Butte counties. She’s also working on getting them into Mount Shasta stores.Â
You can find out more about Tina and Ladle Full of Love here.
About the Culinary Entrepreneur Program
Our Culinary Entrepreneur 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.
Learn More
Key Benefits:
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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 to No Cost Childcare:
Benefit from No Cost childcare services to support your journey while you focus on growing your business.
Workshop Series Details
Dates:
Session dates Thursdays 4–6 PM:
- August 14Â
- August 21Â
- August 28
- September 4
- September 11Â
Mt. Shasta WBC JEDI Office
No Cost
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ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR NEXT COHORT IN SISKIYOU COUNTY
Register today and get access to:
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Session 1:Â
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.
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Session 2:Â
In this hands-on, comprehensive workshop, you’ll explore the essential steps to successfully transition from a home kitchen to a commercial kitchen. We’ll cover everything from understanding the key differences, required documentation, and food safety practices to mastering time management, equipment use, and scaling recipes for larger batch production. This session is designed to provide you with practical tools to enhance your food handling skills, streamline operations, and lay a solid foundation for your culinary business. Join us to transform how you work and set the stage for long-term success in the food industry!
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Session 3:Â
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 4:Â
 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
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Session 5:Â
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?
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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.
ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR NEXT COHORT IN SISKIYOU COUNTYGrantÂ
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.
I'd Like More Information!
Making Participation Easy
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We’re committed to creating access for all aspiring entrepreneurs:
- No Cost 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 no cost, 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!
ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR NEXT COHORT IN SISKIYOU COUNTYMeet Your Instructors
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 no cost services, grants, and no cost childcare to ensure that all aspiring food entrepreneurs have a chance to succeed.
