To start a catering business you need a commercial kitchen, catering license, liability insurance, serving equipment, and a client acquisition strategy. Most caterers launch in 2–4 months with $20,000–$100,000.
Specialize in corporate events, weddings, private parties, or drop-off catering; each niche has different equipment, staffing, and marketing needs.
Rent a shared commissary kitchen ($15–$25/hour) or lease your own; most states prohibit catering from a home kitchen for large events.
Get a catering license, food handler certifications, general liability insurance ($1M+), and liquor liability if you serve alcohol.
Create scalable menu packages priced per person; target 30–35% food cost and include service fees, rentals, and staff in your quotes.
Invest in chafing dishes, serving platters, transport containers, linens, and a refrigerated vehicle for off-site events.
Build a roster of on-call servers, bartenders, and prep cooks; use a staffing agency or recruit directly for flexible, event-based labor.
Photograph your events, build a website with menu packages, and network with event planners, venues, and corporate clients.
Use catering contracts that specify guest count, menu, payment terms (50% deposit), cancellation policy, and liability to protect your business.
BizResCo connects you with verified professionals for every step of starting and growing your business.
Startup costs range from $20,000 for a shared-kitchen model to $100,000+ for a dedicated commercial kitchen, equipment, and initial marketing.
Our AI assesses your business and generates a custom 90-day action plan with tasks, provider matches, and growth insights.
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