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In January 2023, I left Gaza and moved to Toronto, Canada to start a new life. Upon seeing the stability and opportunities available in Canada compared to Gaza, I decided that staying here would be a great option. It was a godsend that I wasn't in Gaza during the war. However, all of my family still resides there
After the war, my family lost all our family businesses. Now, I'm expecting my brother and his wife to join me in Canada through a special measure program, I have a huge responsibility to support them and other family members until they find their own way.
I'm currently living in a shared place and I need to move to another place that would fit us and help them settle in Canada. I found that starting a home-based business would help all of us in our new journey and also would let us help our family back home as well.
I've started planning to open my own small bakery in Toronto. I've created a menu and tested some items with customers, receiving great feedback. One customer even said my falafel is the best they've ever tried in the city!
I'm passionate about making food and want to bring Gaza flavors to people in Toronto. I'll be using my mom's and grandmother's recipes to create unique dishes.
By supporting this campaign, you'll help create job opportunities for my brother and his wife and support my other family members. Together, we can create a small place filled with the flavors of my country.
Budget Breakdown:
- Rent for New Place: As I mentioned, I currently live in shared accommodation and need to move to a new place that accommodates me, my son, and my family. This fund will help cover the initial rent and allow me to begin work on my business ($6000)
- Permits and Licenses: Ensure I have all the necessary permits and licenses to operate a food business from home in Toronto. This may include health permits, business licenses, and possibly zoning permits if there are specific regulations regarding home-based businesses. Budget: $1,000.
- Equipment: Since I'll be operating from home, I'll need separate kitchen equipment such as an oven, refrigerator, freezer, mixer, and baking pans. I might be able to find some second-hand equipment to save money. Budget: $4,000.
- Ingredients and Supplies: Purchase initial ingredients and supplies to start baking. This includes flour, sugar, spices, oils, packaging materials, etc. Consider buying in bulk to save money in the long run. Budget: $3,000.
- Marketing and Branding: Invest in marketing materials such as business cards, flyers, and possibly a basic website to showcase my menu and contact information. I may also want to set aside some funds for social media advertising to reach more potential customers. Budget: $1,000.
- Training and Development: If there are any specific skills I need to improve or if I want to attend workshops or courses related to baking or small business management, I'll allocate some funds for this purpose. Budget: $500-$1,000.
- Initial Inventory: Purchase initial ingredients and supplies to start baking. This includes flour, sugar, spices, oils, packaging materials, etc. Consider buying in bulk to save money in the long run. Budget: $1,000-$2,000.
- Contingency Fund: It's always wise to have some funds set aside for unexpected expenses or emergencies that may arise during the initial stages of my business. Budget: $1,000-$2,000.
- Additional Expenses: Depending on my specific needs and circumstances, there may be additional expenses such as insurance, transportation costs, or utilities. I'll be sure to account for these in my budget as well. Budget: Variable.
I will update you and keep you posted on the progress.