2025 Keynote Speaker, Donnie Madia, Co-Owner of One Off Hospitality.

Looking forward to welcoming everyone at Meet The Experts 2025!

This event offers restaurant and hospitality operators the opportunity to connect one-on-one with some of the biggest restaurateurs in the business, plus experts in HR, public relations, law, accounting, licensing, insurance, and more.

This event is in thanks to our partnership with the Cook County Small Business Source and is made possible by our sponsors: Gordon Food Service, Taft Law, and Tunnel Chicago.

How it works: Operators (restaurant/hospitality owners, managers, and employees) can select five (5) preferred experts to meet with during the event for 12 minute sessions. Consider it an ideal opportunity to ask questions, get advice, and exchange business information to keep the conversation going in the future. It's speed coaching and power networking at its finest. 

Registration is complimentary. Vendors and service providers are unable to sign up for dedicated time with experts, but are welcome and encouraged to join this premier networking event.

For more information about the event and sponsorship opportunities, contact IRA Director of Membership  Lisa Gilbert.