About Us

North Carolina Bar Owners Association (NCBOA), a non-profit 501c6 organization founded by bar owners from across the state. We are a bipartisan group of bar owners working together towards a common goal. Most importantly, equal treatment to other ABC permit holders throughout the State of North Carolina.

The future of our industry is at stake. We have never had a lobbying presence in Raleigh and it shows. Bars in the state of NC have been left out and left behind. NCBOA is founded by bar owners, for bar owners, managed by bar owners, here to protect bar owners and our lives’ work, and most importantly, the future of the bar industry in our state.

Now more than ever it is CRITICAL that we have a strong presence in the NCGA and people fighting for us on all fronts to ensure our collaborative voices are heard and that our industry survives. NCBOA aims to serve as a resource and voice for bar owners across the state. We will work closely with state and local officials to build better relationships, advocate for changes within the NCABC system, and educate the public on who we are and what we really do.

Bars are integral parts of our communities. We provide jobs, pay taxes, host fundraisers, promote inclusion and diversity, provide a sense of friendship and fellowship, and most of all specialize in the HUMAN experience.

Our agenda is clear and our leadership transparent. Keeping ALL members up to date and informed at every turn is our promise. Ensuring the future and equal treatment of bars in NC is our goal. In addition to our legislative agenda, we plan to further expand our organization to include subgroups based on geographic regions or commonalities.

Membership is open to bar owners, bar managers, bartenders, and bar staff. Membership dues support fees to keep our lobbyists active in the NCGA and our platform at the forefront of any discussion that impacts our industry.

We are currently working on an ambitious legislative agenda that will help our immediate needs for financial relief and fairness and are working toward long-term goals to help our industry post-pandemic. Our initial group of eight were able to pool our money together to fund the legal proceedings but we are asking for community support to raise money for our lobbying efforts.

Our Founders and Initial Board of Directors are:

Piedmont Triad:

  • Danielle Bull – Bull’s Tavern – Winston Salem
  • Tiffany Howell – Burke St. Pub and Tee Time Sports & Spirits – Winston-Salem
  • Drew Wofford – Chemistry Nightclub – Greensboro
  • Bryan Wheelock – Tailgators – Greensboro

Western NC:

  • Benjamin Reese – Off the Wagon – Asheville

Eastern NC:

  • Jay Ruth – Tinyz Tavern – Wilmington
  • Matthew Morel – Emerald Isle Club – Emerald Isle