The Food Starter programme is a short two-day programme designed to help those with a food idea, or those at an early stage of starting up a food business (typically within the first 24 months).

The objective of the two days is to provide the participants with a base knowledge of what is involved in setting up a food or drink manufacturing business. The content is designed to provide participants with information which will allow them to avoid the pitfalls normally associated with this journey. Ideally, participants should have previously completed the LEO Start Your Own Business Programme. This programme content assumes participants have the required business knowledge to run a successful business e.g. must already understand the basics of setting up a business, tax compliance rules, creating a business plan etc. 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 Food Starter programme is a pre requisite for those planning to go on and participate in the Food Academy.

The programme content is not suitable for those planning to open a café, restaurant or foodservice operation (business owners from these categories should discuss options with their LEO).

The programme content is focused on food and drink, and is therefore less suitable for those producing “near foods” such as pet foods, health supplements, etc. (Producers from this category should be advised that the programme content may have shortcomings, but it is still possible to participate on the Food Starter Programme).