I am an entrepreneur trying to increase the availability of local food through new technology. My innovation has the potential to dramatically reduce the cost of greenhouse vegetables like tomatoes, strawberries, and cucumbers. Unfortunately, I have quite a bit of experimentation left before I can perfect those crops and I need to pay the bills. I'm able to grow microgreens, baby greens, herbs, and other small plants right now without any problem. I can offer them for quite a discount from current market prices. My problem is that I know nothing about the food service industry or how to sell to restaurants. I've read lots of article about how to go about it, but I don't feel they apply to me. I'm not large enough to sell to a big distributor, and I'm not a small romantic farm. The operation is more like a really small science lab. The crops aren't technically organic because hydroponics does not fit within the definition. However, there is no use of pesticides and it's very efficient in terms of water and electricity usage (I'm not doing genetic engineering either). My ideal situation would be to find 5 - 10 restaurants in my local area and grow something they need throughout the year. This way, I can pay the bills but continue my research into the larger crops. Everyone says to take a sample, but if I take something the chef doesn't need, then I'm left awkwardly explaining that I can grow whatever he needs for a cheap price. Frankly, I just think that would sound sketchy. So my dilemma is how to sell a platform or a concept. Do I highlight the research aspect and that it can save them money in the long run? Do I focus on being able to offer them specialty crops at good prices? Do I take a sample and hope it's something they like and need? I'm not sure if my non-organic explanation will go over well. Also, if any of you have general tips for selling to chefs I'd appreciate it. What times are best? Should I call or email first to set up a meeting? Searching strategy for finding restaurants most likely to be supportive? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.