Cleveland’s food and beverage scene is evolving — and small businesses are at the heart of that transformation!

The Business of Flavor - Food & Beverage Growth Cohort, presented by September Social Group, is an 8‑week program designed to help emerging and established culinary entrepreneurs strengthen their operations, elevate their brand, and prepare for long‑term growth.

Whether you’re a food truck owner, caterer, cottage food producer, beverage brand, or restaurateur, this cohort gives you the tools, connections, and confidence to scale your business with intention.

WHAT THIS PROGRAM OFFERS

Over eight weeks, participants will gain access to:

Weekly Expert‑Led Sessions

Deep‑dive workshops on pricing, menu strategy, branding, marketing, systems, operational efficiency, and funding.

1‑on‑1 Business Audits

Personalized support from subject‑matter experts to help you refine your operations, brand, and growth strategy.

Industry Resources

Templates, assessments, referrals, and actionable tools you can implement immediately.

Community Showcase Event

A public celebration where cohort members present their products, connect with customers, and gain visibility with partners and decision‑makers.

What We’re Looking FoR

We’re selecting approximately 15 food & beverage entrepreneurs who are:

  • Located in Northeast Ohio

  • Operating in the startup or scale-up phase

  • Ready to grow or stabilize their business

  • Open to learning, collaboration, and feedback

  • Able to commit to weekly sessions

  • Excited to connect within the region’s culinary ecosystem

We welcome applications from:

  • Food trucks

  • Caterers

  • Cottage & packaged food producers

  • Beverage brands

  • Pop‑up and booth vendors

  • Restaurants and cafés

  • Culinary creatives building toward growth

If you’re committed to strengthening your business, expanding your reach, and investing in your long‑term success, this program is for you.

Program Schedule

Mondays, March 30 – May 18
9 AM – 12 PM EST
Virtual weekly sessions + individual meetings


Community Showcase Event: TBD

Who Should Apply

HOW TO APPLY

Click the button below to complete the application.
The form takes approximately 10–15 minutes.

You’ll be asked about your business, your goals, and what you hope to gain from the program. This helps us ensure the cohort is the right fit and that we can support you effectively.

Important Dates

  • Applications Open: March 5

  • Applications Close: March 20

  • Notifications Sent: March 24

If selected, participants are required to pay a $50 non-refundable fee.

APPLY NOW

Questions?

Contact Felicia Jackson at hello@septembersocialgroup.com

We’re excited to learn more about you and your business — and to help you grow.