Discover the POWER of a Community
Created BY Restaurant Owners FOR Restaurant Owners

We understand the unique challenges that come with running a restaurant. 
Together we can overcome your obstacles.

Our Mission

The Independent Rest Association was created to support Independent Restaurant Owners across North America and to boost positive change in the industry.

We’re here to help you conquer the challenges of running a restaurant, to elevate your business and to improve your quality of life.

We help independent owners go beyond their bottom lines by providing community support, educational opportunities, and tailored systems and tools. Our founders have decades of experience owning their own restaurants and understand the unique challenges that come with the industry.

We are a dedicated team committed to foster growth, eliminate obstacles, and help you achieve success more quickly. Elevate your business and improve your quality of life.  Join Today.

Why Join?

Joining The Independent Restaurant Association gives you access to powerful tools, personalized coaching, and unwavering support from a group of like-minded owners who share your passion for creating a better restaurant and better life. Say goodbye to the stress and chaos of running a business that doesn’t align with your vision.

You deserve to own a business that supports your desired lifestyle, with consistent income that matches your dedication. Join us and start creating the restaurant you’ve always dreamed of owning – one that allows you to enjoy the things you love with the people you love.

Building a restaurant that supports
the lifestyle you deserve.

Meet Our Founders

Over 80 years of combined independent restaurant success.

Bent Hansen

Co-Founder

Bent has been a restaurant owner since 1996 and a coach helping independent restaurant owners have more profitable businesses and better lives since 2018. 

He believes in helping Independent owners through education, support and community. Bent’s goal is to make sure every independent restaurant owner has access to the tools necessary to have a fun-to-run, easy-to-manage, profitable restaurant. 

Michael has owned 6 restaurants and a multi-million dollar catering company over a 24-year span. He understands the restaurant industry inside and out and is passionate about helping independent operators be successful.

Michael believes the future of the restaurant industry lies with independent owners. He is committed to helping independent restaurant owners achieve better businesses and improve their personal lives through marketing, education, coaching, and community.