Food Business Entrepreneurship & Pitch Competition
Tuesdays • September 2 through October 21, 2025 • 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.

As a participant, you have the opportunity to build upon your skills and experience while increasing your credentials. The program delivers foundation-level concepts and knowledge in entrepreneurship and food service management. Topics include financial management, front & back of house operations, marketing & sales, regulatory requirements, kitchen skills, and more.
This expert-led program also develops skills to plan for, start, and operate a food service business while preparing you for the Serv Safe Food Manager exam as well as the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Certification.
Culminating in an exciting pitch competition, you can showcase your new business concepts to local industry and financial community partners with opportunities to win monetary awards and/or customized mentorships with professionals in the field. Learn more about the next available program, provide your contact information below.
Food Business Entrepreneurship Digital Credential
Digital credentials serve as verification of your knowledge, skills, capabilities, and accomplishments. Displaying and sharing digital credentials provides a more complete picture of your achievements and can be easily recognized and verified by employers, associations, and professional organizations. Learn more >>This expert-led program also develops skills to plan for, start, and operate a food service business while preparing you for the Serv Safe Food Manager exam as well as the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Certification.
Culminating in an exciting pitch competition, you can showcase your new business concepts to local industry and financial community partners with opportunities to win monetary awards and/or customized mentorships with professionals in the field. Learn more about the next available program, provide your contact information below.

Important Program Information
- Classes meet weekly on Tuesday evenings, September 2 through October 21, 2025, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
- There is no charge to participate. This program is sponsored by the City of Frederick Department of Economic Development and the Frederick County Office of Agriculture.
- This limited-enrollment program gives priority consideration given to individuals residing in Frederick County, Maryland.
Thank you for your interest. To learn more about the HCTI Food Business Entrepreneurship program, please complete the form below and we will contact you shortly. Thank you!
For best consideration, complete the program interest form below by August 7, 2025.