FCIA was founded in 2007 by an international group of chocolate professionals who came together in support of the art of fine chocolate making. Recognizing the tremendous consumer interest and growth in the fine chocolate segment of the chocolate industry, the FCIA provides a collective voice of quality and innovation that promotes fine chocolate making practices from blossom to bonbon and bar. A non-profit organization, the FCIA supports the development and innovation of the fine chocolate industry and best practices through: Identifying industry standards for cacao growing, bar and confection production, and the use of quality ingredients; Communicating with consumers, the media, and legislators regarding issues in growing, production and consumption of fine chocolate; Educating chocolate professionals on fine chocolate best practices, ingredients and techniques.

The Fine Chocolate Industry Association (FCIA) is the only organization focused 100% on supporting fine chocolate professionals. We promote the artistry and craftsmanship of the chocolate professional focused on producing superior products made from premium chocolate and natural ingredients. We believe in using best practices in cacao processing and chocolate production; and transparent labeling and marketing practices.

MEMBER Benefits

The Fine Chocolate Industry Association is a non-profit professional international association for anyone working in the chocolate industry. We welcome chocolate professionals who support the association's Vision, Mission and Code of Ethics. FCIA is the only organization focused 100% on the fine chocolate segment of the industry.

One of the big picture benefits of FICA is our commitment to provide unbiased information on what differentiates fine chocolate and fine chocolate making from mass market chocolate.

FCIA Members Also Enjoy:

• Company Listing on Make Mine Fine, our consumer-facing website
• Social Media Promotion for your company and products
• Educational Webinars designed for chocolate makers, chocolatiers, traders, farmer groups, retailers, pastry chefs, and more; member companies receive free passes depending on their level of membership
• Educational Webinar Sponsorships to promote your company and products; number of sponsorships depends on level of membership
• Networking Opportunities with professionals representing the entire supply chain
• Quarterly Newsletters & Feature Article
• Weekly Updates from the Executive Director on key events each week, including a calendar of events and discounts for members
• Online Resource Center, including the FCIA Thought Library, FCIA Membership directory, consumer and business surveys, webinar recordings, and up-to-date regulatory information
• Discounts Program, which may include special FCIA shipping rates; affiliate organization trade shows, webinars, and festivals; company members’ products like chocolate, equipment, and bulk beans; and communications newswires
• Mentor Program that links companies seeking support from others in our membership
• Bundled Membership: list and receive information for staff in their companies based on the membership categories listed in the chart
• Board and Committee Opportunities
• Educational Webinar Sponsorship
• Trade Magazine Featured Article in a leading industry publication in the US with distribution among confectionery companies
• Cocoa Value Chain Programs, an ongoing USDA program in Latin America, and a matching grant program for members interested in cocoa training programs

Who Are Our Members?

We celebrate the artistry and craftsmanship of the fine chocolate professional focused on producing superior products made from premium chocolate and ingredients. Membership includes professionals involved in chocolate from blossom to bonbon and bar:

• Cacao Growers and Processors
• Chocolate Makers
• Chocolate Manufacturers
• Chocolatiers
• Chocolate Equipment and Ingredient Suppliers
• Pastry Chefs
• Chocolate Marketing Professionals
• Chocolate Industry Professionals
• Food Writers and bloggers who specialize in chocolate
• Culinary Educators who specialize in chocolate
• Gourmet Retailers and Wholesalers who focus on offering fine chocolate