The World Food Travel Association (WFTA) announced a new program to develop a world-wide network of consulates and embassies, augmenting its current network of more than 80 ambassadors. “ACE” stands for “Ambassadors, Consulates & Embassies.”

Consulates and Embassies function like chapters of the Association, but without the financial oversight and strict legal attachment to the parent Association. Consulates are organizations that oversee cities and small regions, while Embassies are organizations that oversee areas the size of a state or province and countries. In a smaller geographic area, the Association is represented by Ambassadors, who are individuals. The Consulate program is brand new, while the Embassy program is just a few months old. So far, the Association maintains Embassies in Portugal, Macau and New Zealand.

“It’s an innovative way for Associations to grow. Local chapters want to benefit from the support and experience of a larger Association, but they don’t want an overbearing parent organization scrutizing their every move. Local areas get our experience and help, and we get a footprint in their area. It’s a win-win.” said the Association’s Executive Director Erik Wolf.

To get started as a Consulate or Embassy, an organization needs to send an expression of interest to the Association. If there is a good fit, an interview takes place. Organizations that are accepted pay a nominal annual fee and receive more than 3 dozen benefits, which can range from free attendance at all Association events, free enrollment in the Association’s Certification program, ability to bid on a future World or Regional Food Tourism Summit, a dedicated community manager, and regular monthly consultative meetings.

World Food Travel Association, www.worldfoodtravel.org

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