We get a lot of requests from entrepreneurs looking for information about starting a food truck in Chicago. The Institute for Justice is one of the best, most accurate and informative resources we can think of. They have put together so many resources over many years to help educate the public and clarify often difficult to understand legislation.

This Saturday, they’re hosting a summit to kickstart a career in Chicago in the food business. Though it does not look like it’s focused on food trucks, this will likely give you a great foundation and there will certainly be people who can help answer questions you may have about the food truck business.

Who: The Institute for Justice
What: Learn about legal and business strategies that can help you realize your dream in Chicago’s culinary world
When: Saturday, April 27
Where: University of Chicago Law School, 1111 E. 60th Street

Schedule
9:30-10:00 Registration and breakfast
10:00-10:15 Welcome
10:15-11:00 Breaking Into the Food Business
11:00-12:15 Chicago Food Business Licensing 101
12:15-1:15 Lunch
1:15-2:05 Breakout sessions (choose one)
-Hiring Food Service Employees
-Finding a Space
2:05-2:15 Break
2:15-3:15 Marketing Your Food Business
3:15-3:30 Closing remarks

 

Registration is free, but you have to sign up for tickets here: https://ij.org/recipeforsuccess. Will we see you there? Tweet us @foodtruckfreak!

UPDATE (5/21): When we inquired about information that will be given specifically regarding mobile food vending, IJ said: “Our licensing session will cover mobile food licensing, and shared kitchen user/operator licensing, among other things.  Our other sessions will cover topics that should apply to any business in the food industry, including breaking into the food business, marketing your business, and hiring workers.” Also, we will be available during lunch at a designated table if you want to ask any questions of us!

Disclaimer: The City of Chicago contacted us about promoting their food truck informational courses. We do not feel comfortable promoting those events since we have noticed discrepancies in their communications and actions in the past and have heard the same from individuals who have attended these seminars. If you’re still interested in them, feel free to contact the city or your local alderman for more information about them.