In many low-income neighborhoods and communities of color the only places to buy food are fast-food and convenience stores that sell fatty, sugary, processed foods. Some rural areas have no food vendors of any kind. This lack of access to healthy food makes it difficult for families to eat well, fueling the rise in diet-related diseases and the high societal costs that accompany them. Businesses that can improve access to healthy foods and foster a more equitable and just food system are a crucial part of the solution to this problem.

Launch a Business gives entrepreneurs an overview of what it takes to start and sustain a healthy food business that can successfully serve communities in need. You will find basic information about:

• starting a business;
• creating demand for healthy food in retail settings;
• examples of innovative healthy food business models; and
• potential sources for financing.