Interested in the business of craft beer? The Nebraska Craft Brewery Board has grant funding available for projects that enhance the states hop and craft brewery industry. The deadline for submitting proposals is April 30.
The board is seeking proposals on innovative research, development and marketing projects related to the industry. Individual growers, industry organizations, state and local agencies, educational groups and other stakeholders are eligible and encouraged to apply.
In Nebraska, craft breweries are defined as small, independent breweries producing less than 20,000 barrels of beer per year. The demand for small-batch brews is driving the hop and craft brewery industry and helping producers expand operations.
“There are nearly 5,300 craft breweries in the United States today, which is more than ever before,” said Nebraska Craft Brewery Board Chair Zac Triemert. “Nebraska is building on that momentum. In 2011 we had 18 craft breweries. Last year, we more than doubled that amount for a total of 38 craft breweries. Even with the current interest and success of Nebraska’s hop and craft beer industry, there’s room to grow.”
The state’s Craft Brewery Board consists of seven members appointed by the Governor. The Board represents different aspects of the craft beer industry including brewers, manufacturers, distributors, consumers and farmers growing wheat and hops.
“These grants are available to increase agriculture diversity in Nebraska and to keep the state’s hop and craft brewery industry competitive,” said Triemert.
Interested parties need to submit a detailed proposal clearly explaining how the funds will be used and how they will enhance the competitiveness of Nebraska’s craft beer industry. Applications are available online at http://tinyurl.com/kk8kpxz.
Project proposals are for fiscal year July 1, 2017–June 30, 2018. All approved projects must be completed by June 30, 2018. Instructions for submitting proposals, performance measures and program guidelines are available online at http://tinyurl.com/mjasvcl.
For more information, contact Casey Foster at (402) 471-4876, or by email at:
casey.foster@nebraska.gov.
