When people from all backgrounds and experiences are represented in business, the range of perspectives and ideas they bring greatly improves decision-making and operations. Fair, equitable and inclusive labor practices make for a more vibrant and innovative workplace, but also help break down barriers and stereotypes in our society-at-large.
These values are embodied in our mission and by the Women’s Empowerment & Entrepreneurship Program (WEEP), an initiative of EDENS’ 501(c)3 philanthropic foundation that supports career advancement and financial wellness for women AND minority business owners.
A RIGHTFUL SEAT AT THE TABLE
Fostering equity in the culinary industry is important to EDENS because much of our retail community is composed of professionals working in this field–one where women leaders are underrepresented: Of the approximately 147,434 chefs currently employed in the United States, 27.5% are women. In 2024, they made 83 cents to the dollar men earned; women make $7,950 less annually than males for the same job.
Increasing the number of women chefs and entrepreneurs is critical for promoting diversity front-of-house as well as in the kitchen. This ensures there are more visible role models for aspiring chefs and better reflects the changing demographics of diners which, in turn, improves the customer experience. Through WEEP and our annual Sunday Supper event, we are highlighting these fair and equitable practices to re-frame the policy-making process on behalf of our country’s second largest private employer.
2025 BENEFICIARIES
We are grateful for the support we receive over the years, which has served to sustain a thriving James Beard Foundation Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership (WEL) program, which now boasts 206 alumnae who own more than 360 businesses across 40 states and employ 3,600 full-time and 2,900 part-time staff.
The LEE Initiative, who recently opened SHIA, a nonprofit fine-dining establishment in Washington, DC focused on sustainability and innovation. Their non-profit initiatives include critical issues that face the restaurant industry at-large, from environmental to equity to cultural. The organization was recently named the 2024 James Beard Foundation Humanitarian of the Year.
Regarding Her (RE:Her) unites the power of women business owners to strengthen their position in the restaurant industry. There are currently 1,300 members, including 277 in DC, averaging a 92% success rate (compared to the industry average of 70%). Membership has grown 23.4% and engagement has grown 200%, generating $3.5 million in revenue through mission-driven events.
THE KEY INGREDIENT: YOU!
Our signature event at Union Market District in Washington, DC, Sunday Supper is an annual celebration of the collaborative spirit of this unique community. It’s a fantastic opportunity for lively conversation around ways to make our food scene more dynamic and equitable, while delighting in the incredible talents of our featured chefs and makers.
Great food, lots of fun and collective action—it’s all on the menu. As you savor each course, remember your presence fuels our mission.
Learn more about this year’s Sunday Supper event here. Get a taste of Sunday Supper by watching this short video from last year’s event. See you at the table!
Conversation