Start a DECA Chapter

Considering starting a chapter in your school.  Take a look at some of the essential elements needed below to begin a successful DECA Chapter today.  

Starting a DECA chapter involves several key steps to ensure you meet the requirements and have the necessary support to establish and maintain a successful chapter. Here’s a detailed guide on how to start a DECA chapter:
1. Research and Preparation
  • Understand DECA: Familiarize yourself with DECA’s mission, goals, and organizational structure. DECA is an international association of high school and college students that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management.
  • Check Eligibility: Ensure your school or institution meets DECA’s eligibility criteria. Typically, DECA chapters are established in high schools and colleges with a curriculum that aligns with business, marketing, finance, hospitality, or management education.
2. Secure Administrative Support
  • Gain Approval: Obtain approval from your school administration or institution’s leadership to start a DECA chapter. This may involve discussing the benefits of DECA membership, its educational value, and how it aligns with the school’s mission and curriculum.
  • Identify Advisors: Recruit a faculty member or teacher who is willing to serve as the chapter advisor. This individual should have a passion for student leadership and be willing to dedicate time to oversee the chapter’s activities.
3. Complete Necessary Paperwork
  • Affiliation Form: Complete and submit the DECA Chapter Affiliation Form available on the DECA Inc. website. This form officially registers your chapter with DECA and provides access to member benefits, resources, and competitions.
  • Membership Dues: Pay the annual membership dues as outlined by DECA Inc. These dues provide access to DECA’s educational programs, conferences, and competitions. Currently $20 per student.  
4. Recruit Members
  • Promote DECA: Raise awareness about DECA and its benefits among students. Use posters, announcements, social media, and school newsletters to attract potential members.
  • Information Sessions: Host informational meetings or sessions to educate students about DECA, its activities, and opportunities for leadership development, competition, and networking.
5. Plan Activities and Meetings
  • Chapter Meetings: Schedule regular meetings for chapter members to discuss upcoming events, competition preparation, leadership opportunities, and community service projects.
  • Educational Activities: Organize workshops, guest speakers, and seminars to enhance members’ knowledge and skills in business, marketing, finance, hospitality, or management.
6. Prepare for Competitions and Events
  • Competitive Events: DECA offers a variety of competitive events in different career clusters. Encourage members to participate in competitions by preparing them with study materials, practice scenarios, and mock competitions.
  • District and State Conferences: Attend district and state conferences where members can compete, network with industry professionals, and participate in leadership workshops.
7. Build Relationships and Support
  • Community Engagement: Foster relationships with local businesses, industry professionals, and alumni to provide mentorship, sponsorship, and support for DECA activities and events.
  • Parental Involvement: Engage parents and guardians by keeping them informed about DECA activities, benefits for students, and opportunities for involvement.
8. Maintain Chapter Excellence
  • Evaluate and Reflect: Regularly assess the chapter’s progress, member engagement, and achievement of goals. Use feedback from members, advisors, and stakeholders to continuously improve and grow the chapter.
  • Sustainability: Develop strategies for sustaining the chapter’s activities and membership year after year. Encourage leadership succession planning to ensure continuity and longevity of the chapter.
By following these steps, you can successfully establish and maintain a DECA chapter that provides valuable educational experiences, leadership opportunities, and skill development for students interested in business, marketing, finance, hospitality, or management careers.