The Food Business Accelerator (FBA), run by CitySeed and Collab, is a statewide program in Connecticut designed to support early-stage food entrepreneurs. The program aims to remove barriers to food entrepreneurship through training, mentorship, and resource access, with a focus on increasing economic opportunities and leadership among people of color and immigrant entrepreneurs. It also seeks to strengthen the local food system by connecting food entrepreneurs with farmers. The accelerator is open to those who have recently started or are planning to launch food businesses, such as food trucks, catering services, or packaged food products.
Applications for the 2025 FBA are currently open and must be submitted by Sunday, November 24, 2024. The 12-week program is intensive, requiring a significant time commitment, including weekly workshops on Wednesday evenings and 1-on-1 coaching sessions during weekdays. Participants should demonstrate a willingness to learn, a commitment to the program’s demands, and a passion for fostering an inclusive entrepreneurial community. The program emphasizes anti-racist values and aims to create a supportive environment for Black, Latinx, and women entrepreneurs.
Accepted participants will receive several benefits, including seed funding, access to a licensed commercial kitchen, SafeServe Manager certification, mentorship, and opportunities to vend at CitySeed Farmers Markets. The program also offers training on leadership, entrepreneurship, and navigating legal and regulatory requirements. Additionally, entrepreneurs will have the chance to pitch their business to investors and benefit from a network of over 300 ventures through the CitySeed Incubates listserv.
The 2025 Accelerator will be conducted virtually via Zoom, requiring reliable internet access and a webcam-equipped device. Participants who face technical barriers are encouraged to contact CitySeed after submitting their application to explore possible accommodations. The program is available in both English and Spanish, with applications accessible through the provided links.
