Why should I join the James Beard Foundation?
Any person with an interest in food, whether amateur or professional, should become a member of the Foundation. Maybe you feel strongly about what makes a good hamburger or perhaps you like to know what’s going on in the world’s best restaurants. Whatever your food passion, the James Beard Foundation has something to offer you. By joining the Foundation you become part of the dynamic culinary movement that has revolutionized American cuisine in the last 20 years. Members also enjoy exclusive benefits, including access to top chefs and winemakers, reduced prices and advanced notice about exciting food events, and the opportunity to network with like-minded food lovers.

What levels of memberships are available?
The James Beard Foundation offers a number of different levels of membership for individuals, culinary professionals and students, as well as corporate memberships. For as little as $25/year you can become a part of the nation’s premier culinary arts organization. Check out our membership options and benefits >>>

Which level is right for me?
The enrollment process will walk you through a few options based on how often you expect to be attending James Beard Foundation events, if at all, and/or what level of support you are willing to commit to our mission. Start the process here >>>

How do I become a member of the James Beard Foundation?
Follow the simple enrollment process online or call Membership Services at 800.36.BEARD (362.3273) or 212.675.4984.

How long will I be a member once I join?
Memberships expire one year from the month of purchase.

Is my membership tax deductible?
Memberships are tax deductible above and beyond the value of the benefits you receive. This calculation is different for each level of membership we offer. For additional information, please contact Membership Services at 800.36.BEARD (362.3273) or 212.675.4984.

Once I join, how do I know what events are happening at the James Beard Foundation?
Most of our events are open to the public. We make the details known in many ways. We have a complete calendar on our website. Every two weeks we also send out Beard Bites, an electronic newsletter that contains event highlights and other Foundation news. Certain events have special printed or electronic invitations. Becoming a member is the best way to ensure you don’t miss any of the exciting things going on at the Foundation. What’s more, members receive advance notice and discounts for most events.

How does the member dining discount work?
For most James Beard Foundation events you will see a price for members and a price for the general public. Starting with Associate level members and moving up the membership ladder, you are entitled to purchase a certain number of reservations per event at the member price. Any additional reservations for that event can be made at the general public price. For example, Associate members can purchase one reservation per event at members price and as many reservations as they want at the general public price. Fellow members can purchase two reservations per event at members price and additional tickets at the general public price. Review the benefits associated with your level of membership >>>

Can I receive event invitations and other information if I’m not a member?
Sure. Sign up to receive Beard Bites, our biweekly e-newsletter which features information about upcoming events, recipes and photos from the Beard House, scholarship details, restaurant news from around the country, and the latest on other Foundation happenings. It only takes a minute to sign up >>>

Can I give someone a gift certificate or gift membership?
Yes. Anyone can purchase gift certificates for any value and gift memberships over the phone with any major credit card by calling Membership Services at 800.36.BEARD (362.3273) or 212.675.4984. You do not have to be a member to purchase gifts.

I see some members have access to something called the Directory of Fine Food and Beverage Professionals. What is it and who gets in?
The Directory of Fine Food and Beverage Professionals is an indispensable online networking tool for finding professionals in just about every aspect of the food and beverage industry, from writers to chefs to restaurant designers to real estate agents. Culinary or beverage professionals who join at the professional or higher level qualify for a listing and, with the exception of our student members, only members at that level and above are entitled to view it. For specific questions about listings, email our Manager of Information Resources.

How can I cancel my membership?
You can cancel your membership by contacting Membership Services at 800.36.BEARD (362.3273) or 212.675.4984.

Are there other ways besides membership to support the James Beard Foundation?
You can make tax-deductible donations to the Foundation and its programs. Please call our CFO at 800.36.BEARD (362.3273) or 212.675.4984 for more information.