The Austin Area Minority Business Project and Development Corporation of Austin is sponsoring a free workshop, “How to Start a Food Business,” from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 29, at Riverland Community College.

Mark Thein from the Small Business Development Center, Matthew Finkenbiner from the Minnesota Department of Health and James Roettger from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture will be present to take questions from food entrepreneurs

“This workshop pertains to all food businesses,”Thein said. “Grocery stores with a deli, restaurants, food trucks, food stands and food entrepreneurs working out of their home all should attend.” 

Business plan development for starting a food business is critical. The workshop will touch on items to consider when opening a food business: 

• Who is your target market?
• How will you finance your business?
• Who is your competition?
• How important is the location of your food business?
• Do I have the proper license? Where do I turn for help?

These are just some of the questions that will be addressed at the workshop.

For more information or if you have questions, please contact Mark Thein at mwjrthein@gmail.com or call at 507-459-3060. Additional details can also be found at the Austin Area Minority Business Project facebook page.