Frequently Asked Questions

Membership in FBLA/Interact helps you learn about business and gives you the opportunity to see the “real world” through interaction with business leaders from across the country! You will discover the secret of being able to talk confidently with prospective employers, and you will experience the chance to test your business skills in regional, state, and national competitions. FBLA/Interact is not just for students interested in business. We offer a variety of opportunities that apply to other career fields and the skills that you gain are ones that can be used for life.

Membership will provide you with:

• Career preparation opportunities, workshops, and guest speakers

• Leadership development and achievement

• Outstanding leadership conferences

• Engaging competitions

• Community service experience

• Friendship and fun

• Informative publications

• Networking with peers and business professionals

• Scholarships and prizes

Meet and make friends with members of your own school and other schools across the country! Join in the fun and participate in local activities.

FBLA/Interact meetings take place on one of the first or third Tuesdays of every month at 8:45 AM in room L603. Please check out "Meetings & Forms" page for more information.

All official FBLA/Interact members must:

• Attend at least 6 chapter meetings

• Pay $28 in dues ($15 extra with a t-shirt) - If you have any concerns regarding the membership dues, please reach out to Mrs. Williams through email at lisa.williams@lcps.org or see her in room L603.

• Be currently enrolled in or have previously taken a business class at Riverside

We ask that all paid members join our Schoology group and Remind.

Members are NOT required but are highly encouraged to:

• Attend and participate in conferences

• Compete in one of the many events that are offered

• Volunteer in community service projects

FBLA members and advisers should develop an awareness of one’s appearance. The purpose of the dress code is to uphold the professional image of the association and its members and to prepare students for the business world. During FBLA conferences and competitions, appropriate attire is required of all attendees and presenters.

Please click here for the latest FBLA dress code: https://www.fbla-pbl.org/media/2023/06/2023-Dress-Code_FINAL.pdf.

An official FBLA blazer is NOT required for conference attendees and competitors.

Only official FBLA members who have paid dues by the due date are eligible to compete. Competitions consist of objective tests, case study events, production tests, and performance and presentation events.

The fees for each competition level are typically:

• $5 per Business Battle test (competition is both at the state and national levels)

• $15 at RLC for up to two events (two objective tests or one objective test and one performance/production/interview/chapter event)

• $125 at SLC (lodging is normally not needed as the venue is less than an hour away by car)

• $195 (registration fee) + at NLC (plus more for travel, lodging, meals, transportation, etc.)

Members can attend the NLC without competing in an event! Keep in mind that the average cost for NLC is around $1000+. The more you put into FBLA, the more you will get out of our incredible organization!

I solemnly promise to uphold the aims and responsibilities of Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda and, as an active member, I shall strive to develop the qualities necessary in becoming a responsible business leader.

The national FBLA theme for the 2025-26 school year is Mark Your Mark! Stay tuned for our school theme and let us know if you have any ideas.

Here are some previous national themes:

2024-25: Dare to Dream, Dare to Lead

2023-24: Together We Achieve

2022-23: One Association for Service, Education & Progress

2021-22: Success Starts Here

2020-21: ASPIRE

2019-20: A World of Opportunity

Click here for more!

Please reach out to Mrs. Williams at lisa.williams@lcps.org for more information! Chapter officer applications will open in April. All officer applicants must have been in FBLA/Interact for at least one year prior to applying and running for a chapter, region, state, or national officer position. Being an officer is a great experience! We highly encourage all eligible members to apply, and run, depending on their position.