Cater Camden

Downtown Camden food restaurants are invited to apply to the Cater Camden pilot program. Cater Camden is designed to introduce new clients to the vibrant culinary offerings from Camden's downtown restaurants. Applications for the Summer 2026 cohort are now open!

About Cater Camden

Cater Camden is an initiative that partners with Downtown Camden food businesses to enhance their catering offerings and operations. Selected businesses will participate in training and development with experienced consultants from September to December.

By driving new business opportunities, Cater Camden will unlock new clienteles, streamline their offerings, and bring additional dollars into the participating businesses.

The benefits of participating in Cater Camden include:

  • Catering Business Coaching: Learn from industry leaders to develop a cost-effective and profitable menu you can handle
  • Digital Presence Upgrade: Attract catering customers with Google My Business, a modern website, branding tweaks, and online ordering platforms
  • Enrollment in the Buy Camden First Initiative: Show other Camden businesses that you have the capacity to serve their needs

How to apply

Click below to access the application. Once your application is received, CSSD will reach out for a short interview. Approved businesses will complete an intake form and enroll in the program. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. All applications must be received by Friday, July 10th, 2026.

Before You Apply

This application takes approximately 20–30 minutes to complete across five sections: applicant information, general business information, business finances, digital presence needs, and consulting needs.

To complete your application, please have the following ready:

  • Basic business information (EIN, NAICS code, business entity type, date established)
  • Ownership breakdown (owners and percentage of ownership)
  • Available business documents (e.g., Articles of Incorporation, Business License, Certificate of Organization)
  • Financial information (net income, tax status, any equity investments)
  • Relevant certifications (MBE, WBE, HUBZone, SBA 8(a), etc.), if applicable
  • Required uploads: Business Plan, Capability Statement, and Bios/Résumés for company leadership (a Pitch Deck is encouraged but optional)
Apply here

Program details

Cater Camden is a free, six-week business development program helping Downtown Camden food businesses launch or expand their catering offerings and connect with institutional buyers through the Buy Camden 1st procurement initiative.



A small cohort of 4–5 businesses will be selected to progress through the program together, running virtually from July 20 to August 28. Participants will receive group coaching sessions, individualized support tailored to their business needs, and expert consulting at no cost in the following areas:

  • Profitability, menu development, and marketing strategy
  • Building and managing your digital reputation
  • Food photography for social media and marketing
  • E-commerce website development
  • Getting listed on the Buy Camden 1st vendor directory


By the end of the program, participants will be positioned to launch new catering offerings, strengthen their online presence, and gain visibility with corporate and institutional buyers across the region.

If you have questions about the application or the program, don't hesitate to reach out. Contact Sophia Burns, Communications and Outreach Manager, at sburns@camdenssd.com.