Description: The National Restaurant Association is the largest trade association representing the U.S. restaurant and foodservice industry; it advocates for industry interests before federal and state governments, provides research and policy analysis, offers workforce training and food-safety certification, runs industry events and publications, and supports initiatives to grow and protect dining businesses. Type: Non-profit trade association (501(c)(6)) Policies: Advocacy on labor and workforce development (including training, tip policy, overtime rules, and immigration for employees), food safety and public health regulations, alcohol and licensing rules, tax and small-business regulatory issues, supply-chain and sourcing policy, pandemic and disaster relief for businesses, sustainability and energy policy affecting operations, and programs to support restaurant economic growth. Funding: Primarily funded by member dues from restaurants and suppliers, revenue from events and conferences (including the National Restaurant Association Show), sponsorships and exhibitor fees, fees for training and certification programs, and publication and advertising revenue. Affiliates: State and local restaurant associations, the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF), industry supplier groups and trade partners, and member companies ranging from independent operators to large national chains.
