If you enjoy working with food in a creative manner and like working with people, then starting a food catering service in Montana may be perfect for you. You'll need to have a sharp eye for details, be organized, flexible and possess excellent communication skills. You should also be comfortable working with people as well as working alone.

Montana, with its natural beauty, has become a fashionable resort area for many people seeking peace and privacy. With a population spread out over a large area, the state has several urban hubs, including Billings and Bozeman. The demand for food catering services in Montana centers largely around private functions, such as weddings and birthday parties. To start a food services catering company in Montana you will need to:

1. Develop a business plan for your Montana catering business.

2. Equip your catering business with all the right supplies and equipment.

3. Establish your niche among other catering companies in Montana.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Develop a business plan for your Montana catering services company

A major advantage of starting a company providing food catering services in Montana is that is requires a fraction of the start-up money that a full service restaurant requires. There are many business resources available for someone looking to start their own catering business in Montana. Take advantage of free professional advice and go over your business plan and concept with a small business counselor. They can also give you information on licensing, permits, insurance and other employer obligations that are part of running your own business.

I recommend: The Montana Small Business Development Center (SBDC) can help you draft and write a business plan, which is essential to obtain any kind of bank financing. The SBDC can also guide you through the license application process and advise you on your business insurance needs. The Small Business Administration of Montana has branches throughout the state and can help connect you with a lender as well as offer advice from other small business professionals in the area.

Buy the proper equipment and supplies for your Montana food services catering company

Montana food catering companies that work out of home kitchens can start with very little equipment. All you really need are serving dishes and reliable transportation. As your catering company grows, you can add items like linen, China, flatware, and other commercial equipment.

I recommend: Hayloft Equipment, Inc. out of Lolo, Montana and J&V Restaurant Supply out of Bozeman carry new and used catering equipment.

Understand how you fit in among other Montana caterers

It is important to familiarize yourself with the competition in your area. For example, caterers in urban centers of Montana typically charge higher prices for menus than caterers in more rural areas. If you live in the Billings area, don't worry about what caterers in Whitefish are charging. Worry about what other Billings caterers are charging. You want to make a profit, but you don't want to price yourself out of business.

I recommend: A good place to begin researching your competition is with your local chamber of commerce. Find a list of local caterers at the Billings Chamber of Commerce, the Bozeman Chamber of Commerce and the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce. This is one of the easiest ways to learn about the competitions' menu and services compared to your own. It is also a good idea to keep you eyes open for public catered events where you can see your competitions work up close and personal.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Never underestimate the power of word-of-mouth from other industry professionals. When you work any jobs catering in Montana, always introduce yourself to the DJ, photographer, bartender, or any other vendor. Swap business cards with them. It is a small circle you work in, and these people will often work with the same clients, so help them put in a good word for you.