About Us
Florida Asian American Restaurant Alliance Inc is a non-profit corporation registered with the State of Florida. It aims to create professional leadership and provide restaurant businesses the resources and guidance needed to advance in the food service industry. Moreover, FLAARA has established Florida Asian American Business PC, which is a political committee registered with the State of Florida. It is an advocacy organization representing the interests and concerns of Asian American business owners in Florida, and advocate for policies and regulations that benefits their members and address their specific challenges.
At FLAARA, we provide information, advocacy, workshops, and other opportunities to restaurant professionals. We also support Asian American business owners with positive leadership and sound business practices in Florida.
Our Purpose
Policy Advocacy:
Advocate for favorable legislation and regulations that support Asian American businesses in Florida which includes the restaurant industry, such as tax incentives, labor laws, food safety regulations, etc.
Government Relations:
Building relationships with lawmakers and government officials to ensure the industry’s voice is heard in the policymaking process.
Economic Support:
Advocating for financial assistance or relief programs during times of crisis or economic downturns, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Training and Education:
Offering resources and training to restaurant owners and employees to improve business practices and enhance the overall industry’s reputation.
Public Relations:
Promoting positive perceptions of the restaurant industry to the general public and addressing any misconceptions or negative stereotypes.
Networking and Collaboration:
Facilitating connections among restaurant owners, suppliers, and other industry stakeholders to foster collaboration and shared knowledge.
Sustainability Initiatives:
Encouraging and supporting environmentally – friendly practices within the restaurant industry.
Events
September First to September Fourth
The Florida Asian American Restaurant Alliance has been working with National ACE to promote The AAPISTRONG Restaurant GRANT $15000. The grant is designed to benefit Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander-owned restaurants across the country. With the industry facing ongoing economic challenges, the AAPISTRONG Restaurant Fund is available to help under-resourced restaurants respond to supply chain disruptions, increased inventory costs, workforce development, and safety for their employees.
The funding will allow AAPI restaurateurs to take their business to the next level through development ideas such as infrastructure improvements, e-commerce and technology, employee benefits, and operations streamlining. Ultimately, this will help AAPI entrepreneurs to scale their businesses, secure their futures, and also give back to the life of their neighborhoods by fostering safe and enjoyable places to gather.
With over $4 million in funding awarded to nearly 270 AAPI businesses over the past 2 years, the AAPISTRONG Restaurant Fund continues to uplift the hard work and dedication of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander restaurant owners. The AAPISTRONG Restaurant Fund is made possible by the Grubhub Community Fund.
August Twenty Second 2023 - 9 AM to 5 PM
The Florida Asian American Restaurant Alliance invites business owners to participate Miami Opportunity Summit for Immigrants. Join South Florida leaders to discuss the current immigration landscape, the needs, rights, and responsibilities of new arrivals and long-term contributors, as well as the opportunities that exist to leverage the influx of talents and skills to continue to grow our communities.
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Biscayne Bay, 1717 N Bavshore Dr. Miami FL 33132
Confirmed Guest Speakers:
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- Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava
- MBF Healthcare Founder and CEO Mike Fernandez
- Related Group Vice Chairman Adolfo Henriques
- Google Head of Economic Opportunity Hector Mujica
- Beacon Council President Rodrick Miller
- President and CEO of the Miami Foundation Rebecca Fishman-Lipsey
- The Children's Movement of Florida Founder and Board Chair Dave Lawrence
- Half Moon Empanadas CEO Pilar Guzman
August First 2023 - 5:30pm
Commemorating Immigrants' Contributions to Florida's Economy: A Business and Community Mixer
The Florida Asian American Restaurant Alliance is delighted to announce a significant event, celebrating the immense contributions immigrants make to Florida's economy and the broader community. We are honored to be part of the team and host special guests from the U.S. House of Representatives, Maxwell Alejandro Frost and Darren Soto, along with Buddy Dyer, the Mayor of Orlando.
This event aims to highlight and applaud the impact and roles that immigrants have played in fostering Florida's vibrant economy and enriching our communities through their unique perspectives and diverse experiences.
We are pleased to invite you to join us at this occasion, scheduled to take place at Beardall Senior Center, 800 Delaney Ave #3897, Orlando, FL 32801. The event will commence on August 1st at 5:30 pm.
Join us as we come together to acknowledge and appreciate the integral role of immigrants in shaping the economic and cultural tapestry of Florida.
July Twenty Eighth 2023 - 3pm - 4pm
Florida Asian American Restaurant Alliance invites you to participate in a special Webinar on US immigration law. Don't miss the opportunity for experienced immigration attorneys including Florida Board Certified attorneys to answer your immigration questions.
1. What are the ways for undocumented immigrants to apply for U.S. status?
2. What are the requirements for applying for an immigration waiver?
3. How does an employer apply for status for an undocumented immigrant?
4. How can a U.S. citizen apply for status for an undocumented immigrant relative?
5. Is the C(8) card valid under the new act SB1718?
6. Can an undocumented immigrant work while waiting to go to court?
7. And more….
July Sixth 2023 - 3:00pm-4:00pm
Understanding the impact of SB1718 on Business
We are pleased to announce a workshop titled “Understanding the Impact of SB1718 on Business,” presented by Mr. Santiago, the Florida State Director of the American Business Immigration Coalition and Paul Chavez, the senior immigration attorney of the Southern Poverty Law Center.
The workshop is designed to aid business owners in comprehending the implications of legislative changes on their operations. This event provides a unique opportunity to engage directly with experienced attorneys who possess deep knowledge about how these changes may impact your business.
Key topics of discussion include the E-Verify Mandate System, economic impacts, and considerations surrounding undocumented workers. These discussions aim to equip you with the necessary information to navigate the business landscape under the newly introduced SB1718.
June Twenty Eighth 2023 - 3:00pm-4:00pm
Employment and Labor Law Workshop
We are delighted to announce a specialized workshop as part of the Florida Asian American Restaurant Alliance initiative. Our esteemed hosts for the event are Ms. Luo and Mr. Flannigan, both highly experienced attorneys with extensive knowledge of employment law in Florida.
The workshop will delve into critical aspects of employment law that are integral to every business operation. Among the topics to be discussed are:
Appropriate responses for business owners when faced with frivolous complaints from workers.
Measures and rights for workers to safeguard themselves from work-related injuries.
Understanding the rights of undocumented workers within the Florida employment law framework.
Importance and management of employment records.
The session promises to be a wealth of valuable information for both business owners and employees alike, helping to create a safer, fairer, and more harmonious workplace environment
June Twenty Fourth - 11:00am-3:00pm
SB1718 Awareness March: United Against Anti-Immigration Laws
SB1718, an anti-immigration law, has caused widespread concern and unrest among communities affected by its provisions. It is crucial to delve into the specifics of the law and shed light on the negative consequences it imposes on immigrant populations, fostering fear, prejudice, and a climate of injustice.
The march serves a dual purpose of raising awareness about the detrimental effects of SB1718 and educating the wider public about the importance of embracing immigrant communities. Through signs, banners, speeches, and outreach efforts, participants aim to foster empathy, understanding, and solidarity among all individuals.
Start: The Freedom Tower
600 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL, 33132
End: The Torch of Friendship
June First/Third 2023 - 11:30am
The governor’s new law, SB1718, has had a significant impact on Florida’s restaurant industry, causing concerns among undocumented workers and creating difficulties in finding an adequate workforce. Recognizing the adverse effects of SB1718 and the hardships faced by undocumented workers, the FCA has decided to organize a march in West Palm Beach. The march serves as a platform to unite different communities and raise awareness about the rights of all workers, regardless of their immigration status.
The FCA encourages individuals from all walks of life to join the march, showing solidarity with the restaurant industry and underscoring the significance of inclusivity and diversity. By uniting various communities, the demonstration aims to send a powerful message to policymakers and decision-makers, urging them to reconsider the impact of SB1718 on workers and the restaurant industry.
West palm beach city hall
401 Clematis St, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Member Benefits
Why you should join Florida Asian American Restaurant Alliance？
1. Advocacy and Representation: Members can expect the Alliance to advocate on their behalf, influencing policymakers and decision-makers to address industry-specific concerns, legislative issues, and regulations.
2. Legislative Updates: Regular updates on relevant legislation, regulations, and policy changes that could impact Asian American businesses in Florida such as the restaurant industry, keeping members informed and prepared.
3. Networking Opportunities: Access to networking events, conferences, and industry gatherings where members can connect with peers, suppliers, and potential business partners.
4. Education and Training: Workshops, seminars, webinars, and resources designed to enhance members’ skills, knowledge, and business practices, covering topics such as management, marketing, food safety, and sustainability.
5. Exclusive Discounts and Deals:
Special offers, discounts, and deals negotiated with suppliers, service providers, and industry partners, providing cost-saving opportunities.
6. Crisis Support and Relief:
Assistance during challenging times, such as natural disasters or economic downturns, including resources for disaster recovery or relief programs.
7. Public Relations and Marketing Support:
Opportunities to participate in promotional campaigns or public relations initiatives to improve Asian American businesses’ image and visibility.
8. Legal and Regulatory Guidance:
Support in understanding and complying with complex regulations, licenses, and permits.
Join Us
Florida Asian American Restaurant Alliance is pleased to extend a warm welcome to the following entities and individuals who wish to become a part of our community and contribute to our mission.