About the Foundation of NACE

The mission of the Foundation of NACE is to support the catering and events industry through education and investments that support NACE chapters. We do this through innovative, transformative programs that elevate our collective community. Incorporated in 1985, the Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable organization.

What We Do

Education - The Foundation’s Signature Speaker Series provides education to NACE members through a variety of delivery forms to benefit members and chapters across the country. The program helps chapters offer high-quality education through a vetted list of speakers and specially negotiated rates. Chapters also receive a rebate for booking speakers through the program.

Community Education Grants - The Foundation supports the NACE community through grant-based investments in our vital chapter network. Our Community Education Grants help chapters provide high-quality education programs at the local level.

Chapter Grant/Loan Program - Launched in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Chapter Grant/Loan Program provides funding to NACE Chapters to use toward education programming, program development, membership development or general operations. 50% of the financial support is be in the form of a forgivable grant, with the remaining 50% treated as an interest-free loan repaid to the Foundation through annual chapter giving.

Scholarships - The Foundation provides support for current and future professionals through merit-based education scholarships. Starting in 2019 our scholarships are elevated through a mentorship program that pairs scholarship winners with recognized leaders in their communities. Our vision is to build both knowledge and connections that will have a long-lasting impact on the careers of each scholar for years to come.

Your donation to the Foundation goes to support these efforts that benefit our entire community. You can read our Annual Report online.