Do you want to transform your food product into a thriving business? Startup Tucson is still accepting applications for its Food Forward accelerator program, and the very last day to apply is Monday, August 14.

The new cohort, which is Startup Tucson’s fifth group now, will run from September 19 – October 24 on Tuesdays from 5 -7 p.m. Participants will also receive a free TENWEST ticket and the Final Showcase will be November 16 from 5 – 8 p.m.

All About the Food Forward Program

Whether you’re an aspiring food entrepreneur or already selling, Food Forward is a program that will help guide you through the challenges of starting and growing your business.

It’s an accelerated eight-week program that equips you with the essential tools, knowledge, and support to establish and grow your food business. You’ll learn to focus on building strong business foundations, foster a supportive community, and connect with qualified experts and valuable resources.

Throughout the program, you will:

• Refine your business model and develop a strategic roadmap for success.
• Hone your pitching skills to effectively communicate the value of your food product.
• Identify and target your ideal customers while highlighting the unique qualities that set you apart.
• Benefit from access to a diverse group of industry mentors, providing valuable input and guidance tailored to your specific needs.

For more information, visit startuptucson.com.

Breakdown of the Eight-Week Program

Week 1: Getting Started: Intros, Lean Canvas, and Business Models

In the first week, participants will be introduced to the program and have the opportunity to meet fellow entrepreneurs. We’ll dive into the Lean Canvas model, covering the key elements of a business model and guiding participants in shaping their own.​

Week 2: Identifying Your Customer, Competition, and Unique Value Proposition (UVP)

This session focuses on market research beyond competition analysis. Participants will learn to identify their target customers, analyze competition, and leverage that information to develop a compelling Unique Value Proposition (UVP). Building customer avatars will be part of the process.

​Week 3: Testing and Validating Your Idea, Business Considerations, and Marketing and Branding

Participants will gain insights into validating their ideas and customers. The session will cover techniques for customer discovery and market testing to assess the viability of products and pricing. Finally, this session will cover an introduction to marketing and branding your food product.

Week 4: Product Costing, Pricing, Revenue Calculation, Scaling, and Sourcing

This class will delve into budgeting, pricing, and revenue calculation specific to each participant’s chosen business model. We’ll explore factors such as wholesale versus direct-to-consumer, online versus in-person, and non-food packaging costs. Additionally, we will touch on how to scale your business and sourcing local ingredients.

Week 5: Food Permitting, Licensing, and Labeling

In this session, experts from the Pima County Health Department and the University of Arizona’s food labeling and food testing lab will provide essential insights and guidance. Learn how to navigate the regulatory landscape, ensure compliance with health regulations, and master the art of effective food labeling to establish a strong foundation for your food business’s success.

​Week 6: Mentor Fair

In this session, experienced industry mentors will be available to provide personalized guidance and answer your burning questions. Participants will gain valuable insights, receive one-on-one support, and forge meaningful connections with seasoned mentors. 

​Week 7: Optional TENWEST Sessions

Various sessions and panels held during Startup Tucson’s TENWEST Impact Festival will be highly relevant and valuable to Food Forward participants. Join fellow Food Forward participants at the conference as we explore the local food landscape, gain inspiration from esteemed food experts, and discover new possibilities to fuel your entrepreneurial journey. As a participant, you’ll receive a free conference ticket to the festival (valued at $60) and Startup Tucson mentors will help you choose which sessions will be the best for you to attend based on your unique story.

Week 8: Taste of Tucson Showcase

The program will culminate in the Taste of Tucson Showcase, where participants will showcase their food products to a diverse audience from the local food community. Attendees will have the chance to sample and appreciate the innovative creations of our talented entrepreneurs.

For more information, visit startuptucson.com.

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