As the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership is working to launch a business accelerator for tech companies, another for food businesses is on the horizon.
AEDP is partnering with the MOVE Chamber for minority business leaders on the new Alexandria Food & Beverage Business Readiness Program for entrepreneurs looking to start a restaurant, food truck, bakery, catering company or packaged food brand. It will run Aug. 5 to Sept. 9 from 4:30-7 p.m. on Wednesdays.
An AEDP spokesperson told ALXnow the program is focused on new entrepreneurs or those experiencing challenges early in their venture.
“Alexandria is home to a vibrant and growing food and beverage community, and we want to make sure that anyone looking to be part of it has the skills, knowledge, and support they need to succeed,” said Stephanie Landrum, president and CEO at AEDP. “This program is an example of new initiatives inspired by the City’s recently adopted ALX Forward Framework and will provide aspiring entrepreneurs those necessary, tangible resources.”
The program will take entrepreneurs “from idea to opening day” over six sessions with access to mentors, advisors and a support network.
“Participants will validate their business concept, build a business plan, explore funding opportunities, navigate permits and licensing, learn the fundamentals of restaurant operations, and develop a marketing strategy that attracts customers,” Cristina Amoruso, AEDP’s director of small business and entrepreneurship, told ALXnow. “Our goal is to give people the tools and confidence to launch smarter, avoid costly mistakes, and turn their food business dreams into reality.”
A limited number of entrepreneurs will be able to participate in the program. Eight seats in the program will be free to city residents, property owners or business owners through subsidies from AEDP and the City of Alexandria. MOVE Chamber members will be able to participate for $150, and other Northern Virginia entrepreneurs can join for $600.
The program kickoff will happen from 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 29 at the AEDP Office (1940 Duke Street, first floor). Speakers include Scott Shaw, founder and managing partner at Alexandria Restaurant Partners, and Avez Bashadi, owner of Teriyaki Madness. Reservations are required to attend.
AEDP’s other entrepreneur training program — Accelerate ALX — is accepting applications through July 15 from high-growth tech businesses (AI, cybersecurity, aerospace, defense, energy, robotics and quantum or computer services).
Image via Jaz. Mine/Unsplash
