12 Feb 2015 --- Fermenta, a trade group initiated by Michigan women, committed to diversity, camaraderie, networking and education within the craft beverage industry, announces it obtained 501(c)(3) non-profit status. As a result, the group looks to grow their continuing education opportunities for members.
In August 2014, Fermenta officially launched at Midland’s WhichCraft Taproom. The launch event provided a taste of what the group planned to provide Michigan women: educational seminars, trade shows, quality beverages and networking. The organization has 115 members and has hosted 7 large-scale events and fourteen public brew days, throughout the state of Michigan.
At the 2014 Michigan Brewers Guild Summer Fest, nine breweries brewed a beer in support of Fermenta’s launch. At the 2015 Winter Fest in Grand Rapids, nineteen breweries are brewing beers in support of the group.
The nineteen breweries participating include: 51 North Brewery., Atwater Brewery, Blue Tractor Brewery, Boatyard Brewing Company, Brewery Ferment, Cotton Brewing Company, Eternity Brewing Co., Grizzly Peak Brewing Co., Harmony Brewing Co., Schmohz Brewing, The B.O.B, Ore Dock Brewing Co., Our Brewing Co., Pike 51, Pleasant House Brewing Co., Saugatuck Brewing Co., Unity Vibration Kombucha Beer and Tea, Unruly Brewing Co., and Witch’s Hat Brewing.
Fermenta is now officially a 501(c)(3) non-profit. With this development, the group plans to grow their educational and career development opportunities for Fermenta members. A percentage of membership dues and event proceeds will be directed to an educational fund for scholarships in diverse areas of the industry. Job shadowing and short-term internships are also in the group’s plans.
“We are thrilled with the industry’s warm welcome and excited to be a resource for people who want to expand their knowledge in the fermented craft beverage industries. The talented and passionate network we are building will provide a multitude of opportunities for women and strengthen and grow the industry,” said Fermenta President Pauline Knighton.
