Question 1

What is the cost of membership?

Accepted Answer

The Food Fort is at capacity and is not opening memberships to new businesses at this time.

The base cost for all memberships is $150 annually. Additionally, hourly kitchen usage is charged daily and storage fees (dry, cooler, freezer, etc.) and truck parking are billed monthly.

Question 2

When can I be onboarded? Is there a waitlist?

Accepted Answer

Space at the Food Fort is based on availability. Our waitlist is constantly changing, with onboarding based on prospective member’s needs and how we can accommodate them.

Question 3

What licensing do I need for my business?

Accepted Answer

Every food business is unique. While we can certainly help advise, it is best to contact your local health department’s division of food safety to be certain.  The Food Fort holds a Risk level 4 license with the Columbus Public Health. Food Fort is also a registered warehouse and production facility with the Ohio Department of Agriculture, though each business may require individual licenses.

Question 4

What do I need to bring?

Accepted Answer

The Food Fort provides most essential pieces of commercial equipment, but you will need to provide all of your own food, smallwares, trays, pots pans, and specialty equipment needed for your business. Food Fort will assist in finding the right vendors for the items you need as well as consult on best practices to ensure efficient operations.

Question 5

Can I bring my own refrigerator?

Accepted Answer

Our facility has walk-in cold storage and limited freezer storage available. You may bring in your own freezer or refrigerator, but you must consult with us beforehand to ensure proper power supply and size.

Question 6

Can I use Food Fort for a one-time event?

Accepted Answer

Food Fort does not allow one time use in most cases due to regulation and licensing concerns.

Question 7

What are the facility hours?

Accepted Answer

Food Fort Members have 24/7 access to the facilities and equipment. Kitchen space is available on a first-come first-serve booking system.

Question 8

How long is the membership term?

Accepted Answer

Memberships are renewed on an annual basis, and members are required to sign a license agreement for use of the facility and services. Our license agreements are continuous, and we require 30 days’ notice before termination by either Food Fort or the member.

Question 9

How much storage do I get?

Accepted Answer

Member storage is based on need and availability. While we are limited by the walls of our facility, you can grow and shrink your storage space as need be. You will only pay for the storage space that is right for you.

Question 10

What other services are available to members besides the physical facilities?

Accepted Answer

Food Fort management meets with each member to coach and guide their businesses. In addition to outlining an incubation plan for each member, we offer a variety of incubation services and courses that help excel your business in order to meet the goals each member sets for themselves.

1-888-210-3039

Frequently Asked Questions