This ‘Food Starter Programme’ is a short blended programme consisting of 1 full day in person & 2 half days online training. 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 LEO Fingal, over1 full day and two half days online (Full Day in person in the Clayton Hotel, Liffey Valley & 2 half days online): 13th, 26th and 28th January 2026
(Please note this programme is for Dublin based participants only. If you are outside the Dublin area - Please check your Local Enterprise Office's website for details of their next Food Starter programme for your location).
Note: Must participate on all dates.
BOOK NOW
Workshop Material:
Extensive handouts, best practice sheets and templates will be provided to participants to back up the workshop content.
Workshop Timings:
1 full day and two half days online:
11 March 8.30 to 16.00 Full day Clayton Hotel, Liffey Valley
30 March Online 9.30 – 13.00 (Online via Zoom)
01 April Online 9.30 – 13.00 (Online via Zoom)
Day One:
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 Three
• 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
Price
€100
BOOK NOW
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.
*To register your interest for future Food Starter programmes please email: Melanie Flierenbaum Melanie@jamesburke.ie
