Connecticut ProStart Invitational
Each year, the Connecticut Hospitality Educational Foundation (CHEF) and the Connecticut Restaurant Association (CRA) host CHEF’s signature event — the Connecticut ProStart Invitational.
This dynamic, day-long competition showcases the extraordinary talent, creativity, and professionalism of high school ProStart students from across the state. Registered ProStart schools compete in one or both categories: Culinary and Management, with teams of 2–5 students.
Participants compete for college scholarships, industry recognition, and the opportunity to represent Connecticut at the National ProStart Invitational — the pinnacle of student culinary and management excellence.

Culinary Competition
Students display their technical and creative skills by preparing a three-course meal in just 60 minutes — using only two butane burners and no running water or electricity.
They are judged by industry professionals on taste, skill, teamwork, safety, and sanitation, showcasing precision under pressure and passion for excellence.

Management Competition
Management teams pitch the next great restaurant concept, complete with branding, marketing, and financial plans.
They present to a panel of hospitality leaders who test their business acumen, creativity, and problem-solving skills through real-world management challenges.

Cake Decorating Competition *NEW for 2026*
This event is designed to highlight students’ creativity, technical ability, and passion for the culinary arts. Students have 60 minutes to decorate their own themed cake, using multiple decoration techniques and showcasing their skills!