Box lunches for schools and events

School councils, sports clubs, event organizers, community groups and companies running conferences or workshops.

Price per box with a minimum order, often with a deposit for larger events. Dietary options such as vegetarian or nut-free can carry a small extra charge.

• Batch cooking and packing
• Planning menus and quantities
• Handling allergies and dietary needs carefully
• Quoting and communicating with organizers

• Food premises permit and food handler certification, which vary by province and municipality
• School nut and allergy policies, and the serious risk of allergic reactions
• Commercial general liability insurance, and check cover for food served at events
• Peaks around the school year and event seasons, so income can be uneven
• Cold storage and transport for large batches, especially in hot weather

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on kitchen access, packaging, cold storage and transport for large batches. Pre-ordering helps you know quantities before you buy ingredients.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many groups order and the size of each order. Income can be uneven around the school year and event seasons, and estimates suggest at least about 8 hours a week.

Things to check: a food premises permit and food handler certification, which vary by province and municipality, and school nut and allergy policies given the serious risk of reactions. Also check liability insurance covers food served at events, and cold storage and transport in hot weather.