New Program for 2025 Applications Now Open! Preparation Docs Checklist FoodCelerator Partners PROGRAM UPDATE!!! There have been several updates to the FoodCelerator @LackawannaCounty program. Please thoroughly read all information below before apply or watch the video. If you have any questions, please contact Maria Day, IGNITE Program Manager, at The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. What is FoodCelerator? FoodCelerator is a seven-week program designed to support early-stage, licensed, for-profit food businesses that are ready to move beyond the startup phase. Participants will assess how their business delivers value, understand their customers and markets, explore revenue opportunities, and build connections with experienced business advisors and industry professionals. Through group education sessions, individualized SBDC consulting, and community networking, participants will strengthen their business foundation and identify clear next steps to grow their sales. The program draws on proven business planning tools and frameworks to guide participants in making informed, strategic decisions for sustainable growth. Participants who successfully complete all program requirements will be eligible to apply for a $10,000 reimbursable grant toward eligible business growth expenses, as defined by the project guidelines. Program Format & Topics FoodCelerator includes weekly in-person sessions, one-on-one SBDC business consulting, and independent work to apply what is learned. Each session will feature expert-led instruction and insights from local entrepreneurs and industry professionals. Participants will explore key building blocks for strengthening and growing their food business, including: Defining a clear business model and plan for sustainable growth Strengthening core business management skills Preparing for future funding opportunities Understanding and improving marketing, sales, and branding Learning how to better understand target markets, improve customer service and retention Developing effective pricing strategies to support profitability and growthAccessing tools and resources to support business development Navigating food safety requirements and regulations Identifying and managing common business risks Participants will also learn how to effectively pitch their business and communicate their strategy for growth. The program concludes with a final presentation highlighting their progress and future plans. Eligibility Guidelines To be eligible to apply for FoodCelerator @LackawannaCounty, applicants must: Be a licensed and compliant for-profit food business that meets all applicable local, state and/or federal regulatory requirements specific to their type of business* (current copies of required licenses must be submitted with application) Operate in Lackawanna County (grant funds are restricted from being expended at any other location) Have generated no more than $15,000 in net income in 2024 or since the date your business was established if you started your business after 2024. For the purposes of this application, net income means the total amount your business earned after subtracting all expenses (ingredients, packaging, rent, equipment, etc.) from your total sales. This is the figure listed on your tax return as your business’s profit or loss and it may be a very small number, or even negative, which is okay. Meet all applicable federal requirements if involved in interstate commerce (i.e. online sales across state lines) Be current on all local, state, and federal taxes Meet the requirements set forth by Lackawanna County and through the guidelines of the American Rescue Plan Act Derive at least 51% of annual product sales from direct-to-consumer, retail, or restaurant channels within Pennsylvania or within 275 miles of their facility Be actively seeking education and resources to expand and strengthen their businesses Be open to feedback from mentors, consultants, and peers Preferably have been in operation for less than 3 years Businesses that are still in the idea phase or not yet licensed and operational are not eligible for this program. *Additionally, businesses whose core business activity involves operating a food truck are not eligible for this program. Participant Expectations FoodCelerator @LackawannaCounty will hold 7 weekly in-person Wednesday evening sessions from October 1-November 12 each lasting approximately 2–3 hours. Sessions will include a mix of instruction, hands-on activities, guest speakers, and interactive group work designed to help participants apply what they learn to their own business. In addition to these core sessions, participants will be asked to take part in a few supplemental activities scheduled at times that work for their availability. Cohort members should expect to spend time outside of class on business development activities, including independent efforts and engagement with an SBDC Business Consultant or designated mentor via email, video, or in-person meetings. This is in addition to class sessions and any assignments. In-person attendance is required. Participants may not miss more than one session during the 7 weeks of the program to qualify for the reimbursable grant. Learn More For more information, contact Maria Day, IGNITE Program Manager at mday@scrantonchamber.com.
