Join the USBG; Connect Compete and Collaborate!
USBG; United States Bartenders' Guild Shake It Up National Classic
Education Programs: LEAD Online Education, National Education Week, USBG LEAD Online Learning
Events: Bar Summit, Shake It Up Cocktail Competition, Behind the Barrel Program
Membership Services: Guildhouse Memberships, Vendor Listings, Partner Directory
The United States Bartenders' Guild (USBG), established in 1948, is a nationally recognized non-profit organization headquartered in Henderson, Nevada. It has grown to become one of the most respected professional associations in the hospitality and beverage industry, representing thousands of bartenders and bar professionals across the United States. The guild operates with a clear mission to enrich the career trajectories of hospitality professionals through education, networking, and community engagement.
USBG primarily focuses on empowering bartenders and hospitality professionals by offering specialized training, professional development, networking platforms, and event-based learning. It provides its members with access to a variety of benefits, including:
Educational Programs:
Competitions and Events:
Membership Services:
USBG members benefit from peer-to-peer networking, career resources, access to exclusive partner programs, and participation in philanthropic initiatives like the USBG National Charity Foundation.
USBG differentiates itself through its strong educational ethos and community-centered model. Its core strength lies in:
It is also one of the few hospitality organizations in the U.S. that combines education, community building, and advocacy under one structured platform, supported by decades of legacy and industry partnerships.
As a non-profit, the USBG does not publicly disclose detailed profit or revenue statements. However, industry estimates and its IRS Form 990 filings suggest the organization operates with an annual revenue exceeding $2 million, primarily sourced from memberships, sponsorships, grants, and educational programming fees.
The USBG National Charity Foundation distributed over $9 million in COVID-19 relief grants, showcasing its financial mobilization capacity and reach.
While USBG is not directly involved in product manufacturing or exports, it facilitates numerous partnerships with global spirits brands like Campari, Diageo, and Brown-Forman. These relationships are visible through branded training programs and sponsorships. Export data platforms do not register direct shipments under USBG, as it functions as a service-based association rather than a product-exporting entity.
USBG's primary audience includes:
The Guild caters to both independent professionals and corporate stakeholders across the hospitality ecosystem.
Its robust digital infrastructure and national chapter network enable USBG to deliver programming in both physical and virtual formats effectively.
USBG is a 501(c)(6) non-profit organization with a companion 501(c)(3) charitable foundation. It adheres to all necessary federal and state compliance requirements. The USBG's programs align with industry best practices and responsible alcohol service standards.
From various sources and testimonials:
“The USBG has been instrumental in my growth from a bartender to a regional beverage director. The LEAD program was a turning point in my career.” — Amanda T., USBG Member, New York Chapter
“Behind the Barrel gave me an in-depth look into bourbon production. I couldn’t have had this experience anywhere else.” — Jason W., Competition Participant
With its deep industry roots, comprehensive programming, and community-first approach, the United States Bartenders' Guild remains the most trusted association for beverage professionals across the U.S.
