NACE is the oldest and largest professional association that addresses all aspects of the catering and events industry. Through the collective efforts of members, local chapters, committees and the Foundation of NACE, NACE is at the forefront of the issues that directly affect you and your business.
From practical tips that you can use to provide better service to your clients, to recognition and marketing programs that enhance the credibility and professionalism of the field, NACE is on the cutting edge. From educational programs to standards, to ethics, to legislative monitoring, NACE leads the way.
Our Mission
The mission of NACE is “To be the premier resource and community for catering and event professionals.”
NACE Chapters: Your involvement begins at home
When you join NACE, you instantly become part of a local chapter. NACE has over 40 chapters offering monthly meetings that feature nationally renown speakers, educational programs, idea sharing and networking. There is a chapter fee to attend local events.
Through Chapter involvement, you'll have an opportunity to work on community service projects and voice your opinion about issues that affect you locally and nationally. And the NACE Executive Committee and national headquarters listen and respond to the needs, concerns and suggestions of local chapters. Your chapter involvement is at the very heart of what NACE is all about -- learning sharing and growing.
NACE Experience Conference for Catering and Events
A highlight of NACE is the Experience Conference for Catering and Events held each summer. It is a must-attend event focused on education and networking for catering and event professionals. Nationally recognized speakers and catering professionals present a comprehensive educational program. Exciting social events showcase the best and brightest in catering and event design and executiuon. Equally important are the contacts you develop with your peers and the ongoing networking resources that you take home.
Professional Certification
In addition to the training and educational opportunities available at the chapter and national levels, NACE members may demonstrate their commitment to professionalism and integrity by earning the designation and of Certified Professional Catering Executive (CPCE). NACE members who achieve CPCE status represent the best in the catering profession. Details about CPCE criteria, study materials, test dates and locations, and exam fees are available from NACE national headquarters.
Leadership Training and Development
Because local chapters are the essence of NACE, the association invests time and money to ensure that chapter leaders are trained to perform their duties. Each January, NACE conducts a Leadership Conference, where chapter presidents, and other local leaders join the NACE Executive Committee for three days of training and educational sessions.
The Foundation of NACE
The Foundation of NACE advances the catering and events industry through scholarships that help both future and current professionals. Since 2008, The Foundation of NACE has awarded more than $100,000.00 those pursuing or advancing careers in catering and events. These scholarships provide aid that supports tuition, travel, leadership training and professional development to those who want a career in the catering and events industry. For more information go to the Foundation of NACE website.
Awards Program
NACE established an annual awards program to honor its members' highest achievements and outstanding contributions to the catering profession. Winners are recognized at a gala awards ceremony held during the Educational Conference, as well as through articles in industry press.
Awards include:
- Best Event Production
- Catered Event of the Year
- Best Themed Food & Beverage Presentation
- Chapter Program of the Year (NACE Chapters only)
- Best NACE Chapter Fund Raising Event (NACE Chapters only)
- Spirit of NACE Award
- Chapter Community Service Award (NACE Chapters only)
- Chapter of the Year Awards (membership under 100; 100 & over)
- Caterer Member of the Year
- Affiliate Member of the Year
Now It's Your Turn - If you believe in your career and the events industry; if you believe in the value of education, networking, information and resources; if you believe that individuals can accomplish more together than alone, NACE is for you. By working together, there are no limits to what we can accomplish for our profession, our employers and our customers.