Start Your Own Food Business Programme:

This Start Your Own Food Business course has been developed for those who are thinking of starting a small business or those who have a business that is running less than 2 years.

The Course:

This programme will provide individuals who are seeking to start their own business with the skills, management tools and expertise in making the right decisions, planning and organising effectively. It will help individuals gauge what will be required in order to keep their new venture running effectively and efficiently. 

The course has been designed to build your practical business skills in the following areas: 

• Food Enterprises
• Developing a Business Plan
• Food Industry Legal Requirements & GDPR
• Food Market Research & Promotion
• Online Marketing & Social Media for Food Brands
• Financial Management for Food Businesses - Cash flow, Profit & Loss & Ratio Analysis
• Taxation

Please Note: 

• This training is for businesses currently trading or planning on trading in Waterford City or County. If you are based outside of Waterford please contact the relevant LEO to access a similar service. A full listing of LEO offices are available by following this link - Find Your Local Enterprise Office
• By booking this course you agree to share your booking details with the trainer.

Course Schedule:  9.30am - 4.30pm each day 

Lunch and refreshments provided - please let us know if you have any dietary requirements.

• Day 1 - Thursday 28th May

• Day 2 - Thursday 04th June

• Day 3 - Thursday 11th June

• Day 4 - Thursday 18th June

• Day 5 - Thursday 25th June

Delivery Method

This workshop will be delivered in person at the following venue, Waterford City Enterprise Centre, Waterford Business Park Waterford X91 HC2V

Training Partner:

Gateway Consulting trainers are Seamus Murphy and Tanya O'Brien.

Tanya is a business development and marketing specialist with over 5 years of experience helping startups build strong, customer-focused brands. With a background in consultancy, training, and commercial leadership, she supports entrepreneurs in connecting with their markets, crafting effective strategies, and driving sales through clear, practical guidance.

Seamus is a business advisor with 15+ years of experience supporting startups across Ireland, backed by 25 years in finance and industry. He helps entrepreneurs understand the financial and legal essentials of business, making complex topics like tax and cash flow practical and easy to apply.

Together, Seamus and Tanya of Gateway Consulting offer a well-rounded, practical and insightful learning experience—supporting participants in building both the commercial structure and market-facing strategies needed for a successful business launch.

Two factor authorisation is required when booking; please ensure you have this set up with your bank. If you experience any difficulties regarding payment, please contact the LEO office at 051 849905 for assistance.