The LEE Initiative was founded and remains grounded in equity in the restaurant industry. As one of the most culturally diverse and economically significant sectors in the U.S., the restaurant industry currently employs over 10% of the workforce and generates 4% of the national economy. Yet it is also marked by unequal access and structural instability. The LEE Initiative was established in 2017 to address these challenges through a range of food and industry-focused programs. Our mission is to promote diversity, equity, and sustainability in the restaurant industry by empowering culinary employment, supporting inclusive mentorship and training, and conducting research to address critical industry challenges.