Back in April, I published a rundown of the top 10 things startup breweries want to know, based on frequently asked questions. In keeping with that tradition, I have highlighted this year’s start-up seminars at Craft Brewers Conference and BrewExpo America will be held in Nashville at the end of April.
Start with the right seminar
These seminars are selected to cover a variety of topics that are relevant to new breweries, as well as those still in the planning stages. Click on the links below for a more detailed description of the seminar and to learn more about the speakers.
1. The week that gives birth to your brewery
I hear from many new breweries that opening week has been busier than expected, and that’s often due to the surge of new arrivals and the whirlwind of beer sales that followed. At Tom Hennessy’s The week that gives birth to your brewery provides insight into preparing your team to successfully launch your business and unveil your beer to the world.
2. Quality assurance for small breweries: the key to growth
Producing quality beer is something we continually strive for in the craft brewing community. As such, the Getting Started track would not be complete without a seminar covering the basics of establishing a quality control program. Zachary Taggart will be on hand to present Quality assurance for small breweries: the key to growth and answer your questions.
3. Distribution models for start-up breweries
In an ever-changing market, distribution is a constant challenge for breweries of different sizes. I often hear companies wondering if and when they should start distributing. Once the initial decision is made, questions arise about the best distribution methods based on each brewery’s capabilities and goals. In their seminar, Kimberly Clements, Suzie Ford, Barbara Gerovac and Daniel Lust discuss Distribution models for start-up breweries.
4. Marketing your brewery to a municipal government or skeptical community
Growing a business includes establishing that business as part of a community. The political landscape of a community can pose various challenges if we are not willing to work with those who live in and regulate those areas. Whether you’re scouting or have already started pouring beer, Julie Wartall’s Marketing your brewery to a municipal government or skeptical community provides valuable information on presenting your business to an uncertain community.
5. Capital raising
The craft beer industry has grown tremendously over the past decade and an ever-changing landscape requires foresight and significant funding. Whether you want to learn more about valuation, methods of raising capital, or insight into where the market is headed, this seminar has something to offer. Join Lynne Weaver as she leads a roundtable to answer pressing questions about the challenges of Capital raising.
6. Manage risks from startup to rapid growth
Regardless of your brewing skills and professional background, starting a business requires risk management. For small breweries looking to thrive, Manage risks from startup to rapid growth offers valuable insights from our panel which includes Dan Kleban, Jonathan Dunitz, James Sanborn and Brad Weller. They will cover a variety of topics ranging from intellectual property and real estate acquisition to brewery protocol and equipment management.
seven. Solutions for small brewers
Begin. Nano. Brewery. You get the big stuff, but what about the endless little stuff for which there are no commercially available and affordable solutions? Obtain Solutions for small brewers brewing experts Patrick Staggs, Bryan Selders and Ryan Scott.
Plan ahead
I’ve covered some specific topics and seminars in this list, but I’d like to conclude with a broader piece of advice – plan ahead. The Craft Brewers Conference offers a huge opportunity for breweries to train, network, engage with suppliers and connect with industry peers. The week tends to slip by and it’s easy to get caught up in CBC’s momentum. So be sure to factor the must-see seminars into your schedule. Going into the week with a plan is the best way to ensure you get the most out of it.
Want to know more about quality? Attend one of nine Quality seminars or stop by and visit the Quality Subcommittee at their open day for advice.
We know you can’t attend all of these fantastic seminars. All conference attendees will receive a password so they can listen to and view the presentations via the conference website the following week after the conference.
