About this Event
Marketplace Accelerator
Launch with Confidence. Sell with Purpose.
Whether you’re preparing for your first pop-up, community event, or local marketplace, the Marketplace Accelerator equips entrepreneurs with the tools, guidance, and business support needed to become marketplace ready.
Over the course of the program, participants will work alongside experienced Inland Empire SBDC business consultants to strengthen their business, navigate licensing requirements, refine pricing and branding, and prepare for future selling opportunities.
What You’ll Learn
- A better understanding of licensing, permits, and compliance requirements
- Practical strategies for accepting payments and managing finances
- Marketing techniques to attract and retain customers
- Tips for creating an engaging booth and customer experience
- Ongoing access to business advising and resources to support your business beyond the program
Upon successful completion, 20 selected vendors will have the chance to make their first sale at this year's Festival of Lights in Riverside!
Food Vendor Track, 6-Week Program
HYBRID PROGRAM SCHEDULE (Please Note the In-Person Dates and Times)
· Class 1 (Online): September 16, 6 - 8 p.m. Food and DEH Permitting*
· Class 2 (Online): September 23, 6 - 8 p.m. Health Permits and Food Safety*
· Class 3 (In-Person): September 30, 6 - 8 p.m. Compliance
· Class 4 (Online): October 7, 6 - 8 p.m. Finance and Taking Payments
· Class 5 (Online): October 14, 6 - 8 p.m. Marketing for the Marketplace
· Class 6 (In-Person): October 21, 6 - 8 p.m. -Dominating the Marketplace
*Includes additional guidance on food safety requirements, health permits, cottage food regulations, and marketplace compliance.
For questions regarding this workshop, including late registration, please email us at [email protected]
Event venue & nearby stays
Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce, 3985 University Avenue, Riverside, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.