Makers Landing, a food community, where the brightest minds in food hone their skills and is a development created by the V&A Waterfront in partnership with the National Treasury’s Job Fund, is calling on local food entrepreneurs to apply for its latest cohort incubator programme.
Makers Landing
Makers Landing is a space for budding food entrepreneurs to innovate, learn and grow their businesses. The space was developed in partnership with the National Treasury’s Jobs Fund, with a R63-million investment aimed to create opportunities for these future stars of the foodie scene. Food experts will share skills, nurture, and coach young talent, helping to build these new businesses in the food industry. This kitchen incubator will be at the core of Makers Landing.
The Incubation Programme
The programme will offer opportunities to qualified business startups and existing small food businesses that can show that they will benefit significantly from affordable access to a licensed commercial kitchen space, and technical assistance and training from experts in food industry techniques and general business operations.
The incubation programme will take place over four months. The programme will include two sessions a week with online modules, in-class learning, and individual assignments. The modules will cover food safety, product development, marketing, sales, operations, and finance.
The programme aims to equip selected participants with knowledge of the fundamentals of building a business along with insights into the local food industry.
How to apply
Foodpreneurs must have a food business that has been operating between six months to three years in order to qualify.
The new cohort programme will begin on 3 August 2021. Applications are currently open and can be completed online.
Requirements:
- A desire to formalise and expand their food business and a plan for how to achieve that growth.
- Experience in operating a food business, formally or informally, for at least six months, but less than three years.
- A personal support network.
- An entrepreneurial spirit, enthusiasm, and persistence.
- A vision for the business.
Applications close on 30 June 2021.
Applicants are advised that some costs will apply to join the Makers Landing Food Lab programme. These fees include a monthly sum for access to the training, networking, and facilities provided during the incubation programme. In addition, the costs to cover regulatory items such as health and safety certifications.
