This one-of-a-kind networking opportunity brings together local food entrepreneurs and expert resource providers to help you gain the valuable connections and knowledge you need to build and sustain your business.

For an emerging small food business, the difference between success and failure can lie in having a conversation with just the right person. That is why we are bringing together local food entrepreneurs and talented resource providers for this unique networking opportunity at FINNOVATION Lab​ on Friday, April 5th from 1 – 4:00 pm.

Who is this for? Content from our CPG Resource Round Up will be mostly beneficial to early stage founders in the CPG space. That includes founders who have an idea, are pre-revenue, are selling in the farmers markets, or are in minimal retailers.

How do I prepare? You should come prepared with questions you have about your business. Think about what you are confused about, struggling with, having success with, or just wondering about. We will have resource providers with a wide range of expertise so think about all areas of your business (licensing, regulation, food safety, product development and formulation, packaging, labeling, design, marketing, branding, retail and wholesale distribution, finances, networking, etc.) The more prepared you are with specific questions the more you will get out of your time at each resource provider.

What should I bring? You don't have to bring anything but yourself, but if you would like to we suggest bringing something to take notes on and something to collect materials in as resource providers will have business cards, informational materials, etc that you may want to take home. You are allowed to bring samples of your product for people to try if it's something easy to pass out but note that you will have to carry samples with you and there is no area for preparation or serving of anything. If you have one, we suggest bringing a mockup or sample of your packaging and label/branding as well so you can show resource providers what you have so far. If you don't have any of that yet, that's ok, just bring your ideas! Whatever you bring, be prepared to stand/move around the room so pack light!

Unsure where to start? If you are unsure of what you need to ask, learn, or what's next, you can opt in to start your day with a Generalist Session. This session will have you connect with a General expert who can ask questions about your product and business and can help guide you to which experts in attendance will be most helpful to you. Click the box on Generalist session when you register to sign up.

Additional Preparation: We will be sending you a look book of all the Resource Providers in advance of the event. Please review and familiarize yourself with who will be there so you can prioritize your time and connect with the most critical resource providers to help advance your business.