An industry worth fighting for. A membership built around you.


The Independent Restaurant Coalition is the only national trade association focused solely on federal policies that affect independent restaurants and bars. When you join, you’re not signing up for another newsletter — you’re stepping into a movement that makes sure the people who run America’s kitchens, bars, cafés, and food trucks are heard where it matters.

We offer three membership types — Trade, Partner, and Associate — with dues scaled to revenue. No matter the category, every member helps shape our advocacy agenda and strengthens the collective power of independent food and beverage businesses.

Why Join?
  • Your voice deserves to be heard. When independent operators show up together, Congress listens. Your membership turns individual frustration into organized influence.
  • Staying informed protects your business. Members receive timely policy briefings, action alerts, and webinars that explain what's changing in real terms — before it hits your payroll, prices, or operations.
  • Collective power works. Every member strengthens every effort we take to support this industry. The more of us who show up, the stronger the coalition becomes.
  • Membership pays for itself. Trade members gain access to our Members Portal and a growing suite of discounts and resources designed to reduce your operating costs, including discounts on hundreds of products and services through BenefitHub; food safety certification at reduced rates through Always Food Safe; staff training and leadership development through ZingTrain;  and health insurance and wellness options for you and your team.

 

Restaurants, bars, food trucks, cafés, and counter-service concepts. Join as a Trade Member.

Your membership drives our advocacy agenda and gives independent operators a collective voice on the federal policies that affect your business every day — tipping, delivery fees, service charges, health care, and small-business relief. Dues begin at $50 and are scaled to revenue.

Yes, I want to become a Trade Member

Producers, distributors, caterers, and service providers who support the industry. Join as a Partner Member. 

When independent restaurants and bars thrive, so does your business. Partner membership connects you directly with trade members while showing the industry where you stand. Benefits include a listing in our online Partner Directory, an introductory offer shared directly with trade members, and use of the IRC member logo. Dues are scaled to revenue.

Yes, I want to become a Partner Member!

If you business is a mission-aligned nonprofit organizations working toward a stronger, fairer food system and would like to partner with the IRC please contact us.

All members agree to follow the IRC Code of Ethics. Please review it before completing your membership application.

The stakes are high. So are the possibilities.
If you care about the future of independent restaurants, now’s the time to become a member.