Opportunity for food entrepreneurs

The V&A Waterfront is searching for eight food entrepreneurs to take part in the Makers Landing Kitchen Incubator Programme.

Those successful will have access to business development training, mentorship and technical support, market and finance opportunities, events, product development and specialised kitchen equipment.

Applications close on Monday January 29.

The incubation programme is broken down into three phases:

• The pre-incubation phase (three months) is dedicated to identifying gaps in the business, key focus areas and building a strategy for future growth. This includes selection, contracting, baseline assessments and development maps.

• The incubation phase (five months) provides a comprehensive business development programme to prepare the entrepreneur for running a successful food business and scaling its operation which includes but is not limited to regular health checks to assess implementation, scale of operations (funding readiness, market support and funding opportunities), brand development, media and public relations, market readiness and bespoke programme technical support.

• The growth phase (four months) focuses on marketing exposure, unlocking growth opportunities, building a sustainable brand and business.

Henry Mathys, senior manager of social impact and food ecosystems at the Waterfront, said the goal of the Kitchen Incubator Programme is to provide support and guidance to foodprenuers looking to scale their businesses successfully.

“Over the three years, we’ve noted individual business growth within each graduating cohort. It’s been incredible to watch these culinary experts not only apply the insights learnt from the curriculum but also leverage on the knowledge shared by other industry leaders who have mentored them throughout the journey.”

Visit www.makerslanding.co.za/learn for more information or to apply.