This ‘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 Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown LEO over 3 workshops. It begins as a full day in person event on the 14th October (Clayton Hotel Liffey Valley) and 2 half days online on the 4th & 6th November 2024.

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Sessions Content

Day One: (14th October)

Clayton hotel in Liffey Valley : Full day WS1 & WS2: 14 October 9.30am to 17.00

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 & Day 3 (4th and 6th November):

Half day online via Zoom : WS3: 04 November 14.00 – 17.30

Half day online via Zoom : WS4: 06 November 14.00 – 17.30

• 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:

1 x Full day (14/10) in person: 9:30 - 17:00

2 x half days (04/11 & 06/11) remote: 14:00 - 17:30

Price

€100

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The Trainers

This programme is run by James Burke & Associates who have a wealth of industry experience in both the retail and food service sectors.