A collaborative in-person and online program is providing foundational insights for up-and-coming specialty food manufacturers. The Specialty Food Association (SFA) announced its new Maker Prep Course, with the first Class session kicking off at the 2024 Summer Fancy Food Show and culminating in a Class graduation at the 2025 Winter Fancy Food Show.
"Early-stage makers are the beating heart of the specialty food industry, and one of SFA's core responsibilities is to support these exciting and innovative entrepreneurs," said Phil Robinson, Senior Vice President of Member Development at SFA. "We are thrilled to unveil this new offering designed specifically to help the next generation of standout specialty food brands and leaders take their businesses to the next level."
As a press release detailed, the Maker Prep Course offers six months of comprehensive learning about running a specialty food business; each Class participant will, by graduation, have a thorough understanding of how to launch, market, and distribute their products.
Enrollment in the Maker Prep Course includes:
Participants of the course will have unlimited access to educational materials and can work at their own pace, connecting and collaborating with one another through a dedicated group chat channel. SFA will also provide class discussion and personal exploration prompts and facilitate monthly live coaching sessions led by industry experts. Upon completion of the program, qualifying graduates will be celebrated in a ceremony at the 2025 Winter Fancy Food Show, along with a special display opportunity for their products.
The 2025 Winter Fancy Food Show will also see the kick-off of the next Maker Prep Course group, the Class of Summer 2025. To read more about SFA’s latest launch, click here.
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