From Idea to Market: How to Start a Food Business

A Practical Workshop for Aspiring Food Entrepreneurs

Have a great food idea, but don’t know where to begin? This hands-on workshop at the FoodLab at Stony Brook Southampton guides aspiring food entrepreneurs through the essential steps of launching a successful food business—from concept to market.

Participants will learn how to refine their product idea, understand food safety and regulatory requirements, choose the right business structure, price products profitably, and navigate packaging, labeling, and distribution. We’ll also cover common startup pitfalls and smart ways to test your product before making major investments.

In addition to practical instruction, participants will receive extensive resources and trusted contacts to support their journey, including guidance on how to work with the Stony Brook Small Business Development Center, Cornell Cooperative Extension, and programs such as Taste NY. You’ll leave with a clear roadmap—and a network—to help turn your idea into a viable, compliant, and market-ready food business.

Ideal for: First-time food entrepreneurs, home cooks ready to go professional, farmers and makers exploring value-added products.