PROGRAMS
Food Business Fundamentals
Applications OPEN until Friday March 13
FOOD BUSINESS FUNDAMENTALS
About the Program
Thinking about starting a food business? Start here.
Food Business Fundamentals is a 6-week introductory course series designed for aspiring and very early-stage food entrepreneurs. This program supports individuals in the pre-venture or infancy stage (0–$5K in revenue) who may be operating informally or are still shaping their idea.
If you’re selling without formal licensing, testing recipes, or unsure where to begin—this program provides the structure and clarity you need to build a legitimate, sustainable food business.
WHO IS THIS PROGRAM FOR?
This program is for entrepreneurs who:
- Are in the idea stage or early startup phase
- Are earning between $0–$5K in revenue
- May be operating without formal training or licensing
- Want foundational business education
- Need clarity before investing more money into their business
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
- Defining your “why” and business vision
- Business Model Canvas fundamentals
- Types of food businesses & licensing pathways
- Understanding your customer
- Basic financial operations
- Resilience and next steps
This program is a collaboration between reSET and CitySeed in partnership with Hands On Hartford and the Hispanic Federation. It is designed to help founders move from idea into action with clarity, structure and support.
2026 Food Business Fundamentals Schedule:
Application deadline: Friday March 13, 11:59pm
Tuesdays, 6-8pm via zoom
April 14, 21, 28
May 5, 12, 19
*Dates subject to change
How much does the Food Business Fundamentals program cost?
Thanks to our funders, this program is offered at no cost to participants.
What do we look for in participants?
Food Business Fundamentals introduces new perspectives, frameworks, and ideas. Participants who excel in this program are open to feedback and eager to refine their business approach and have a willingness to learn.
Commitment and Availability:
To get the most out of the experience, we ask that you attend all sessions and give your full attention during the course.
The Food Business Fundamentals course is taught entirely online. To participate, you will need reliable internet access and a device with a webcam and microphone (a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer is recommended).
Join a growing network of over 1,000 entrepreneurs in the CitySeed + reSET community and take the first step on your entrepreneurial journey.
FAQ
- Do I need ServSafe before applying?
No. If your business requires it, you can complete required food safety and licensing steps outside of class time. You might not even be at that stage yet! - What if I'm just thinking about a business?
This program is for you! We'll help you define your "why" for your business, understand your customer, understand licensing and registration pathways and more! - How much time is required?
Participants should expect to spend about 2 to 3 hours per week in class and on homework. - Is this only for Hartford and New Haven?
No. The program is statewide, with priority given to Hartford and New Haven-based food entrepreneurs.
Ready to Get Started?
Application Deadline:
Friday, March 13th, 2026
