Craft beer enthusiasts and supporters of Boston Beer Company recently gathered at “The Beer Bash” on June 7, 2024. This event aimed to celebrate and showcase the products of the six finalists competing for the prestigious Samuel Adams Brewing & Business Experienceship.
After fan voting and a rigorous selection process, the winner of the Experienceship was announced on June 13, 2024. Crowns & Hops Brewing Co. from Inglewood, California emerged victorious. Founded in 2016, this brewery stands out as black-owned, female-owned, and veteran-owned, emphasizing not only great beer but also important conversations about race, culture, and identity in the industry.
Beny Ashburn, co-founder of Crowns & Hops Brewing Co., expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating that winning this competition validates their dedication to craft beer, community, and innovation. Ashburn emphasized the importance of continuous learning and growth, highlighting the mentorship opportunity provided by the Samuel Adams team, including founder and brewer Jim Koch.
Jim Koch’s journey from leaving a consulting job to founding Boston Beer Company in 1984 is a testament to the American Dream. Despite facing challenges and uncertainties, Koch’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality have propelled his brewery to success. The Experienceship program serves as a way for Koch to give back and inspire the next generation of craft brewers.
Through initiatives like Brewing The American Dream, Boston Beer Company has supported numerous food and beverage businesses, providing financial assistance, mentorship, and creating employment opportunities. Koch, with his experience and insights, aims to nurture a community of entrepreneurs who share a passion for brewing and innovation.
The recognition of Crowns & Hops Brewing Co. as the winner of the Experienceship not only celebrates their brewing excellence but also underscores the importance of diversity and inclusion in the craft beer industry. By amplifying voices from underrepresented communities, such as minority-owned and female-owned breweries, the industry can continue to evolve and thrive.
As Crowns & Hops Brewing Co. embarks on the mentorship journey with Samuel Adams, they have the opportunity to refine their business strategies, marketing techniques, and operational efficiency. The exchange of knowledge and experiences between established brewers like Koch and emerging talents like Crowns & Hops promises a bright future for the craft beer landscape.
The Samuel Adams Brewing & Business Experienceship serves as a beacon of inspiration and empowerment for craft brewers across the nation. By championing diversity, fostering innovation, and nurturing entrepreneurship, programs like these pave the way for a more inclusive and dynamic craft beer community. Cheers to Crowns & Hops Brewing Co. and all the aspiring brewers shaping the future of the industry.