The Independent Restaurant Coalition was founded on the simple belief that our small businesses have the power to affect legislative change if we unite our voices. We are delighted to offer three classes of membership: Trade Members, Partner Members, and Associate Members. Dues are based on class of membership and business revenue.
The services and products to support our members will evolve over time. In our first year we will provide you with the following:
Advocacy: You can contribute to the strong advocacy programs centered on assuring that our businesses are being supported by our federal policy makers.
Community: Our coalition of over 100,000 people keeps in touch with each other and current issues through the coalition's web site, frequent Zoom calls and email updates of emerging issues relevant to our industry.
Education: Gathering knowledge about everything from tax credits to hiring practices to the latest pandemic inspired pivot can be daunting. IRC members have the opportunity to share ideas, and develop new ways to improve their business and the industry through member forums, seminars and workshops.
Food Safety Certification: The IRC has partnered with Always Food Safe Company, an online based, ANSI accredited training provider that specializes in food safety to ensure that your staff and guests have a safe and positive experience. IRC members receive discounted classes and the opportunity to join a nationwide network of test proctors.
BetterHelp: The IRC has partnered with BetterHelp to support you and your well-being by providing you with easy and convenient access to professional therapy online. As a valued member of IRC, this benefit is completely confidential, no one within the entire organization will know if you have used this benefit, and it is available to you completely free of charge for a total of one month, and it doesn't expire
Please note, members of all levels must abide by the IRC's Code of Ethics, please take a moment to carefully read this document before completing your membership application.
Trade Members
Are you an owner or operator of an independent restaurant or bar who is actively involved in the daily operation of the business? Trade membership is for you. Trade members pay an annual membership fee, are entitled to vote, have access to monthly leadership calls, and the opportunity to participate in committee level work. You will also have direct access to IRC consultants as well as a network of industry mentors.
This class of membership is for restaurants and bars only, if you own a market, catering company, event venue, or franchise we would love for you to join us as a Partner member below. Take advantage of special membership pricing for the New Year by following the link below!
Yes, I want to become a Trade Member!
Partner Members
If you are an individual or represent an entity that does not own or operate independent restaurants and bars but whose business activities are directly engaged with the restaurant and bar industry this is the right membership for you.
Partner members pay an annual membership fee, may occupy a designated Board position, may serve on committees and are not entitled to vote.
Examples of business types that would fit into this category: Catering Company; Event Venue; Franchise; Market; Farmers; Ranchers; Fisherpeople; Wine, Beer & Spirits producers and distributors; Coffee, tea and other beverage producers; Food Distributors; Marketing and other professional services.
Yes, I want to become a Partner Member!
Associate Members
Individuals and entities who are unaffiliated with the Restaurant Industry directly, but who wish to sponsor and support the Restaurant Industry through the IRC's activities should select this membership category.
Associate members pay an annual membership fee, may occupy a designated Board position, may serve on committees and are not entitled to vote.
Examples of businesses types that would fit into this category: Associations and Non-Profit Organizations.