Shaping the Future of Food

As the world’s premier culinary college, the CIA does more than just cultivate the next generation of hospitality and food industry leaders; we also educate and empower current foodservice leaders to effect change in their businesses and communities. Our connections run deep, with ties to top universities, food industry leaders, entrepreneurs, scientists and food authorities from around the world, recognized brands, cultural influencers, and more. We’re shaping the future of the food industry and driving change for a better world. Our efforts center on four strategic pillars:

Industry Leadership Programs

The CIA’s thought leadership conferences and programs bring together the best minds from the food industry, various professional sectors, academia, NGOs, and government to address critical issues affecting our food system, and the future of our menus. From professional conferences to invitational retreats, sector collaboratives, research, digital media initiatives, custom video and content solutions, informational resources, and more, the CIA’s culinary thought leadership initiatives give chefs, high-volume menu decision makers, sector business leaders, and experts from around the globe the tools they need to drive what will be on our plates in the next year, decade, and beyond—and guide their guests toward healthier, more sustainable food choices whether dining out or at home. See an overview of all CIA thought leadership programs here >

CIA Consulting: Putting Principles Into Practice

CIA Consulting’s team of certified master chefs, chefs, and certified hospitality educators help you take the disruptive trends and big ideas identified in our culinary leadership programs and distill them into actionable strategies for your businesses. With clients ranging from college and university dining programs, consumer packaged goods companies, senior living communities, restaurants, hotels, and commodity boards to name a few, CIA Consulting supports efforts from facility and menu design to new product innovation and recipe development, working behind the scenes with you to boost your bottom line. Learn what we can do for you >

Personal and Professional Development

The culture in-, and outside, the kitchen can make or break a business. That’s why it’s important to ensure consistent training, provide ongoing mentorship and professional development opportunities, and have a solid foundational knowledge of business, including financial administration, personnel management, real estate, and marketing. From line cook to the C-suite, our full range of professional education, certification, and advanced degree offerings can help you define your culinary culture.

Signature Events

With an alumni network more than 50,000 strong and a community of supporters throughout every sector of the hospitality industry, the CIA’s signature events are not just a place to rub elbows with food industry influencers, they also fund vital student scholarships. Get involved >

Join Our Community

The Culinary Institute of America is a not-for-profit institution. Your support helps ensure that the more than 90% of CIA students who receive financial aid and scholarships can pursue their dreams of attending the world’s premier culinary college. Here are just a few of the ways to: