Start a small-event catering business from a licensed kitchen

Families planning parties, people organizing showers, graduations and funerals, and small community groups.

A price per guest or per tray, quoted for each booking, usually with a deposit and a minimum order. Delivery and setup can be charged separately.

• Cooking in larger quantities
• Costing menus and quoting
• Food safety habits
• Reliable timing and organization

• Many provinces do not allow selling catered food from an unapproved home kitchen, so check with your public health unit about permits or renting a commercial kitchen
• Food handler certification may be required by your province or municipality
• Commercial general liability insurance, and product liability cover if offered
• Allergen labelling and clear communication with clients
• Check whether a home-based business licence or zoning approval applies in your municipality
• Register for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $6,000 CAD, depending on equipment, kitchen access, insurance and the size of your menu. Your own costs may differ, so price each item before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $600 to $3,500, depending on how many events you book, your menu prices and the hours you put in. Revenue is not profit, so subtract ingredients and other costs.

Check with your public health unit about permits, since many provinces do not allow selling catered food from an unapproved home kitchen. Also check food handler certification, insurance, allergen labelling, municipal licence or zoning rules, and GST/HST registration.