James Beard Foundation Accepting Applications For Women In Culinary Leadership Grant

The James Beard Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2015 Women in Culinary Leadership grant program, with a deadline of Tuesday, December 16.

Women with at least two years of professional culinary or hospitality experience and who are at least 21 years old are encouraged to apply for the chance to be trained by some of the country's most talented chefs.

This year, six- or twelve-month mentorship programs are available with Christina Tosi (Milk Bar), Anthony Lamas (Seviche), Donnie Madia (Nico Osteria), Kevin Boehm (Boka Restaurant Group), Kevin Brown (Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises), Rohini Dey (Vermilion), Tom Douglas (multiple restaurants), Matt and Kate Jennings (Townsman).

For one week, each grantee will also have the opportunity to work alongside guest chefs cooking at the James Beard House. Applicants will also receive a weekly $500 stipend for living expenses.

"While we have made great strides in the last few decades, there are still obstacles for women on the path to achieving the highest level of leadership or ownership as executive chefs and restaurateurs," said Rohini Dey, owner and founder of the Indian-Latin restaurants Vermilion in New York City and Chicago.

"With the guidance of eight phenomenal mentors, JBF's Women in Culinary Leadership grantees will each gain hands-on experience to help overcome the challenges inherent in being successful business women and/or chefs in the culinary world."

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Karen Lo is an associate editor at The Daily Meal. Follow her on Twitter @appleplexy.