The Business Idea: Preparing convenient meals to go for parents and others too tired and/or busy to cook.
First Steps to Start Your Business:
Prepare a business plan outlining the basic premise of your business. Include your business name, type of business (sole proprietorship, etc.) Specify the type of meals, delivery options and the market you will target. Include financial information that gives your current money status, and projected expenses and income over the next year.
It is essential to have the correct permits and licenses for your business. Check with your state, city and county for specific requirements for your location. Contact the state’s occupational licensing board that regulates food sales to learn about the laws regarding food businesses operated from home. Your local Small Business Development Center can assist you as well.
Some licenses and permits you may need to get include:
Business License (many states, cities and counties may each require a business license. Call your local government offices to find out which ones your business will need, and the costs.
Register your business name and type of business (joint, sole ownership, LLC, corporation, ) with the secretary of state’s offices for your state.
Other licenses and requirements may include:
Food Handlers License
Catering License
Kitchen Inspection
Sales Tax Permit
Some Other things to consider:
Think about a niche for your new business. Perhaps a specialized meal service for gluten free diets, for example.
Keep cooking supplies/food items for your business separate from personal cooking items in your kitchen (if you are using your home kitchen for your business. This will depend upon your city and state;s requirements.)
Starting small and simple may be best for your cooking business. Think about offering 3 meals for customers to choose from. Dishes that can be reheated easily should appeal to the most tired parents. Also, think about labeling requirements. How will you label ingredients, nutrients, calories, etc.?
Do you need approval from a Home Owners Association?
Will you need extra insurance coverage?
Will this be a pick up service only, or will you offer delivery? You will need extra car insurance and may need to meet additional state and city delivery requirements as well.
Start Up Advertising Ideas:
Word of Mouth
School
Kids’ Sporting Events/Sponsor sports teams as well.
Blog
Advertise in Local newspapers, magazines.
Ask small businesses if you can leave business cards (veterinarian offices, pediatricians, pet groomers, dry cleaners, etc.)
Place Ads on Your Vehicle (ask friends and family to do the same!)
Local Swap Meets (Have free samples prepared. Find out requirements for food sampling first) Have menus and pricing brochures ready for potential customers to take home with them.
Resources: