2023 NJ ProStart Invitational

Support our ProStart Students!

NJ High School ProStart Teams from all across the state compete in this "Shark Tank" meets "Top Chef" culinary and management competition. Showing off their talent and creative spirits, NJ's Hospitality Industry leaders volunteer their time to judge the compeition and offer their expertise to our students. The NJREF teams up each year with colleges and universities throughout the Northeast to award over $1 million in scholarships to the first, second, and third place teams! The first place culinary and management teams move on to the National ProStart Invitational in Washington D.C. representing New Jersey!

Culinary Competition

Students are challenged to create a three course menu and prepare their menu items in only an hour using no electricity. Only a butane burner!

Management Competition

Students are challenged with presenting a restaurant business concept and model including their theme, menu, pricing, marketing, and more!

 Culinary Showcase

This portion of the event will replace our sit- down Awards Dinner. NJ Food Vendors and ProStart Students will be showcasing small tastings, while our college partners and businesses will be tabling and networking with the students. Winners of the 2023 NJ ProStart Invitational will also be announced at this time. **Requires a purchased ticket to attend.**

The competition portion is free to attend and does not require registration. The Hospitality Industry Showcase & Food Festival will require a registration and ticket to enter.

More on our ProStart Program