About The Crafted Fellows Program

The Crafted Fellows Program is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit accelerator program that supports and empowers BIPOC owned beverage industry businesses by offering strategic support. This one-of-a-kind program creates space for a small group of entrepreneurs to connect with and learn from one another while offering opportunities for professional development, network building, and mentoring.

The program culminates in the annual Crafted Fellows Pitch Competition where Founders compete for a microgrant and other resources designed to accelerate their early stage craft beverage businesses.

We're Here to Serve

We're proud of the work we're doing to serve and support the next wave of change-makers in the craft beverage community! To date, we've supported 18 BIPOC ventures, have awarded $22,000 in microgrants, and have secured over $15,000 of in-kind support. And we're just getting started!

Win Big! Apply for the 2026 Crafted Fellows Cohort.

The Crafted Fellows program is designed to give emerging beverage entrepreneurs the access, opportunity, and support they need to grow. From exclusive conference experiences to mentorship, funding opportunities, and a community of peers, Fellows gain the tools to take their business to the next level.

The application period for the 2026 Crafted Fellows Cohort opens on October 1, 2025 and closes on December 19, 2025.

Apply Today!

Fellowship Benefits + Requirements

As a Crafted Fellow, you gain three key advantages:

Access

Complimentary VIP registration to the annual Crafted for Action Craft Beverage Conference in Atlanta.
Spotlight features at the conference venue and on the website.
A personalized Fellows Track of sessions tailored to your business journey.

Opportunity

A series of six (6) virtual sessions with guest experts delivering actionable insights.
Guaranteed entry into the pitch competition with the chance to win a microgrant.

Support

Connection with a powerful network of beverage industry entrepreneurs.
Mentorship and direct access to industry leaders through the Fellows’ virtual series.

Fellows aren’t just participants — they’re leaders helping to shape the future of craft beverages.

As a Crafted Fellow, you’ll have the opportunity to:

Engage deeply in a virtual learning series designed to strengthen your business.
Immerse yourself in the annual conference through a curated Fellows Track.
Showcase your vision in the annual microgrant pitch competition.
Shape the program’s future by providing valuable feedback and insights.
Inspire others as we share your story to elevate the Fellows Program and community.
Lead the way forward by advising on the selection of the next cohort of Fellows.

2026 Program Timeline*

October 1, 2025: Crafted Fellows Application Period Opens
December 19, 2025: Crafted Fellows Application Period Closes
January 16, 2026: Selected Fellows are Announced
February 2026: Virtual Session #1
March 2026: Virtual Sessions #2 - 3
April 2026: Virtual Sessions #4 - 5
May 2026: Virtual Session #6
June 2026: Fellows Pitch Competition (at annual conference in Atlanta)

*timeline subject to change

Your Donations Matter!

Your donation helps provide resources, education, and direct support to emerging entrepreneurs, ensuring they have the tools to thrive in the industry. Join us in making a lasting impact—every contribution brings us one step closer to a more diverse and inclusive beverage community. Donate today!

Donate!

Be a Crafted Fellows Mentor

We're seeking enthusiastic professionals from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about supporting startups to pair with each Fellow as mentors. As a mentor, you'll connect with an assigned Fellow on a schedule that you decide upon, offering guidance, sharing your expertise, and helping them navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. Mentors do not need to have background in the craft beverage industry.

Interested in becoming a mentor? Please complete the interest form and we'll be in touch soon!

Be a Mentor

Frequently Asked Questions

Are travel and lodging accommodations provided for selected Fellows?

No. Travel and lodging expenses are the responsibility of the participant(s).

Is the program limited to the craft beer industry?

No! Crafted Fellows is open to all adult beverage industry ventures including but not limited to:

Beer
Wine
Spirits
Seltzer
Kombucha
Cider
Mead

How many people/ventures are accepted each year?

Up to eight (8) ventures or individuals will be accepted annually.

Is Crafted Fellows a nonprofit?

Yes! The Crafted Fellows program is a registered 501c3 organization. All donations made directly to Crafted Fellows, Inc are tax deductible.