Since its inception, the IRA Educational Foundation has awarded almost $2.8 million to deserving students pursuing Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management in college. Applicant must be a permanent resident of the State of Illinois (under the age of 30), be accepted and plan to enroll in an accredited culinary school, college, or university, be enrolled as a full-time or substantial part-time student, taking a minimum of nine credit hours each term and major in a culinary, restaurant management or food service related program. Scholarships are generally up to $4,000 and 80 recipients are usually awarded.
The foodservice industry in Illinois is the largest private sector employer in the state. To serve the needs of this important industry and support its future, the Illinois Restaurant Association works to provide restaurant operators and suppliers in Illinois with valuable business services, networking opportunities, cost saving programs, and vital advocacy. Founded in 1914, the Illinois Restaurant Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting, protecting, educating and improving the restaurant industry in Illinois.