Chapter FAQs - International Culinary Tourism Association

The following is a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) regarding the set-up and operation of ICTA chapters:

What is an ICTA Chapter?

Why should we start a new ICTA area Chapter?

There are numerous benefits to starting a local chapter. Read about the benefits to starting a chapter here.

How often do Chapters pay dues?

Chapter dues are renewed and payable annually. There is no first-year initiation fee. The dues price is the same price you pay upon renewal each year.

What should I consider before applying to start a Chapter?

In order to qualify for the establishment of an Area Chapter, an area must demonstrate considerable interest and activity in culinary tourism. You should also consider the type of experience it requires, the funds it requires, and the effort and commitment it takes to be a successful chapter. Read what it takes to start a Chapter here.

What payment methods do you accept for Chapter dues?

What is easiest for you? We accept checks drawn on U.S. banks in U.S. dollars. You can also pay by credit card (Visa, EuroCard/MasterCard, JCB, American Express) or wire funds if you prefer. We can also invoice. An additional US$25 charge applies for wired funds (this is a bank charge we have no control over).

How does a new Chapter find the money to pay for its initial chapter dues?

The annual Chapter dues price is an excellent value for the price. Read about the value you get here. We realize a brand new Chapter may not have the financial resources at the outset. Assessing each of your new members is one option, as is applying for a grant from an department or ministry of agriculture. Don't forget to consider tourism development grants from your local, regional or national destination marketing organization. Some local corporations also have a giving program. Be sure to ask your friends, family and colleagues for additional ideas of funding sources. You know your local resources best.

I'm already a member of the ICTA. Do I need to pay twice for my own membership?

No. If you are already a member of the Association, we will credit the monthly prorated amount of your remaining membership term against the annual Chapter dues.

I want to form a chapter of the ICTA but I live in a small country and we can't afford the Chapter annual dues. Do you offer any discounts?

Yes. We use a formula derived from purchasing power parity (PPP) ratios as outlined by the OECD and the World Bank (Read more about PPP here). Every country in the world is indexed according to the spending power of your local currency. Please inquire if you think your area might be eligible for a discount.

Who can apply to serve as a Chapter chair?

Anyone can apply, but it makes most sense for someone who is well-connected and well-regarded in the area's foodservice or tourism industries.

What are the requirements, responsibilities, and terms to become an area chapter chairperson?

Chairperson's duties can be found by reading "How to Start a Chapter".

We're thinking about forming a Chapter but we want two people to lead the chapter. Will that work?

It usually works best if one person leads the Chapter and works with a committee to help make decisions and implement projects. That said, we realize that the organizational culture in some areas means that two people need to co-manage the Chapter Chair position. That is OK.

We already have a regional culinary tourism organization. Why should we consider becoming a Chapter of the ICTA?

There are many reasons why it makes good business sense to partner with the ICTA, just a few of which include, the ICTA's global name recognition, high-quality and cutting-edge resources and educational materials, the Certification program, unique team collaboration resources and access to our online BrainFood library. Read the full list of Chapter benefits.

What is the easiest way to collaborate with other members in my Chapter?

This can be decided amongst your chapter, or you can utilize the Association's online collaboration system, which helps promote Chapter discussions and project collaboration regardless of differences in time zones, distance, weather, work schedules and computer type (e.g. PC or Mac). All the information is kept in one place where all team members can come together and discuss.

How can I recruit more members to join the Chapter?

One way is to utilize the potential members list provided by the Association in your Chapter start-up package. We also recommend considering an on-site full-day Chapter Kick-Off and Toolbox Talk session. Such a Kick Off event will motivate and excite potential members of you Chapters.

How do I start a chapter of the ICTA?

A detailed set of instructions can be found by reading "How to Start a Chapter".

What does the ICTA do to help Chapters get started?
The details of how we help Chapters are included on the Chapter Benefits page. Also remember, every Chapter Set Up includes a one-hour planning call (no extra charge) with one of our senior strategists. In this call, we apply our proven methodology in a template for successful development, and discuss how to integrate your Area's unique needs within the template. We hold your hand through the set-up process.

How do I organize a local culinary tourism event?

Decide on a theme, size, and budget with chapter members, get the word out, and use the Association for support if needed.

What type of events should a Chapter organize?

Some examples include, but are not limited to, food and beverage tasting workshops, local farm tours, food preparation courses, cultural seminars, dinners, festivals, and public outreach events. If your Chapter has enough momentum, you may wish to work with us on organizing a regional symposium or other prominent event.

I live in a small town/region. May I still start a Chapter?
For areas smaller than states/provinces/small countries, flexible workgroups can be created at town/regional levels. For larger countries, the national chapter is ad hoc and comprised of state/provincial chapters.

I am interested in starting a multi- state/ provincial/ national Chapter. What are the rules for this?
Chapters may exist across regions that cross state/ provincial/ national borders. Such "Super” chapters are created ad hoc as required.

Are Chapter members displayed on the Chapter's FoodTrekker page?
Yes, chapter members are linked to Chapter page on FoodTrekker.

How does our Chapter's FoodTrekker listing work?
Chapters automatically receive a basic group page on FoodTrekker and may upgrade to an enhanced group page. Group pricing is also meant for hospitality associations, lodging guilds, etc. Discounted TrekkerPlus listings are the same price for destination’s members or a group’s members. If Chapter members elect not to upgrade to TrekkerPlus listings, on FoodTrekker, they may be included as TrekkerFree (basic) listings at no cost.

My business already has a TrekkerPlus listing through my Chapter. Do I need to pay again individually?
No. If a business has a TrekkerPlus listing through a Chapter, it does not need to pay for its TrekkerPlus listing again as a Group Member or individually.

What will happen to my individual business' TrekkerPlus listing if I join a Chapter?
If a business already purchased an Enhanced FoodTrekker listing and then joins an existing area chapter, any Enhanced subscription at the new Chapter price will extend rather than refund the business subscription

What sort of insurance is offered for Chapters?
Chapter insurance is not included. You will be required to indemnify the Association with your existing insurance provider.

How often are Chapters required to hold meetings?
Chapters are free to decide frequency of meetings, local agendas, membership policies and so on, all within the structure of an organized and well-respected international association.

For questions not listed above, please contact us.

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