Eligibility
The HBK Incubates incubation program is open to all early-stage businesses, with priority given to food entrepreneurs from the Harlem community. Our goal is to make business ownership more accessible to all New Yorkers; with this in mind, we strongly encourage women and minorities to apply.
Our application process focuses on identifying promising candidates who satisfy the following criteria:
- Business Stage: Individuals and partnerships who have already taken steps to research and test a feasible concept, develop entrepreneurial skills and have the time and resources required to grow their business will be our highest priority.
- Skills and Competencies: HBK Incubates assesses the applicant’s professional experience, entrepreneurial spirit, openness to learning new skills and ability to cooperate in a challenging and busy environment.
- Product Viability: HBK Incubates staff samples products and menu items from each business to assess if the proposed product or concept has the potential to be successful.
- Income Level: A few memberships at each round of applications will be reserved for low-income individuals. Please inquire about subsidized rates when you apply.
Applicants need to be aware that members are required to be registered as a business and have insurance. As such, start-up costs to begin producing in the kitchen may include:
- Insurance (which typically costs a minimum of $450 per year)
- Licensing fees (costs vary depending on the product; a baker should expect to pay $400 for 2 years)
- Legal fees tied to formalizing the business’ corporate structure
