Saskatoon, SK – Aspiring entrepreneurs in Saskatoon now have a new opportunity to test out their food business ideas and gather valuable market insights. The City of Saskatoon, in partnership with the Saskatoon Farmers’ Market, has launched a program called “Let’s Potentially Test Out Product” (LPTOP) to support local food businesses.
The LPTOP program provides a platform for new entrepreneurs to showcase their products at the Saskatoon Farmers’ Market, which sees over 10,000 visitors every week. This allows them to gather feedback and gauge the demand for their products in the local market.
“We understand that starting a new business can be daunting, especially in the competitive food industry,” says Mayor Charlie Clark. “Through the LPTOP program, we hope to provide a supportive environment for new entrepreneurs to test their products and gain valuable insights into the local market.”
The program is open to all food businesses that are in the early stages of development and have not yet established a permanent location. Participants will have the opportunity to set up a booth at the Saskatoon Farmers’ Market for up to four weeks, free of charge. They will also receive mentorship and support from experienced vendors at the market.
“We are excited to partner with the City of Saskatoon to help new entrepreneurs in the food industry,” says Farmers’ Market Manager, Darla Lindbjerg. “The market has always been a hub for local businesses, and we are thrilled to provide a platform for these entrepreneurs to showcase their products and receive valuable feedback from our customers.”
The LPTOP program is part of the City of Saskatoon’s Economic Recovery Plan, which aims to support local businesses and stimulate economic growth in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program is also aligned with the City’s goal of promoting a vibrant and diverse local economy.
Applications for the LPTOP program are now open, and interested entrepreneurs can apply through the City of Saskatoon’s website. The program will run from January to March 2022, with the potential for an extension based on its success.
“We encourage all aspiring food entrepreneurs to take advantage of this opportunity and apply for the LPTOP program,” says Mayor Clark. “We are committed to supporting our local businesses and helping them thrive in our community.”
With the launch of the LPTOP program, the City of Saskatoon and the Saskatoon Farmers’ Market are paving the way for a more vibrant and diverse local food scene. This initiative not only supports new entrepreneurs but also provides the community with access to unique and innovative food products.
