SBDC EATS

Fridays: August 22 – September 26, 2025 I 10 a.m. – Noon

Are you interested in starting your own food business? SBDC EATS is a program that helps you learn what it takes to do so! Through this program, you will be guided through the necessary steps to plan, build, and launch your food business and products in the marketplace. SBDC EATS will be taught in a hybrid format (online and in person).

This program is offered in English and Spanish.

During the program, you will learn:

Going from Idea to Concept

• Do you have what it takes?
• Steps to starting your food business
• Types of food businesses
• Competition
• Your niche
• Market research

Setting up Your Business

• What are the different business entities?
• Pieces you need to set up your business
• Licensing and permits

Honing In on Your Offerings

• Your offerings
• Recipes
• Inventory
• Pricing and costing

Starting to Sell

• Cottage permits
• Selling at events
• Managers certification

Managing Your Business

• Accounting methods
• Financial projections
• Access to capital

Getting the Word Out

• Marketing your business
• Establishing your online presence
• Steps to stand out and shine in a crowded market
• Measuring your success

Through this program, you will be aligned with one of our food consultants for personalized assistance and to discuss how to move forward toward the launch of your business. You will be required to attend all sessions in order to participate in the graduation showcase event.

Program Schedule:

Session 1: Friday, August 22 I 10 a.m. – Noon (In Person)

• Kick-off session at the 4th Street Market – 201 E 4th St, Santa Ana, CA 92701

Session 2: Friday, August 29 I 10 a.m. – Noon (Zoom)

Session 3: Friday, September 5 I 10 a.m. – Noon (In Person)

• Field trip to the 4th Street Market – 201 E 4th St, Santa Ana, CA 92701

Session 4: September 12 I 10 a.m. – Noon (Zoom)

Session 5: Friday, September 19 I 10 a.m. – Noon (Zoom)

Session 6: Friday, September 26 I 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.* (In Person)

• Graduation event at the 4th Street Market – 201 E 4th St, Santa Ana, CA 92701
  (Vendor setup is at 7:30 a.m.; the event starts at 8 a.m.)

** Please note that attendance is MANDATORY at ALL sessions **

Only those who attend the sessions live will receive the slide deck and a link to the webinar recording.