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About The Fellows Accelerator
The Fellows Accelerator is a program of Crafted Fellows, Inc. 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 Fellows Pitch Competition where Founders compete for a microgrant and other resources designed to accelerate their early stage craft beverage businesses.
Fellowship Benefits + Requirements
As a Fellow, you gain three key advantages:
Access
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Complimentary VIP registration to the annual Crafted for Action Craft Beverage Conference in Atlanta.
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Spotlight features at the conference venue and on the website.
Opportunity
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A series of virtual sessions with guest experts delivering actionable insights.
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Guaranteed entry into the pitch competition with the chance to win a microgrant.
Support
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Connection with a powerful network of beverage industry entrepreneurs.
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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 Fellow, you’ll have the opportunity to:
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Engage deeply in a virtual learning series designed to strengthen your business.
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Showcase your vision in the annual microgrant pitch competition.
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Shape the program’s future by providing valuable feedback and insights.
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Inspire others as we share your story to elevate the Fellows Program and community.
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Lead the way forward by advising on the selection of the next cohort of Fellows.
2027 Program Timeline
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October 16, 2026: Fellows Accelerator application period opens
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December 11, 2026: Fellows application period closes
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Late January, 2027: Fellows selected; acceptance calls/emails sent
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February - May, 2027: Fellows virtual sessions
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June 5, 2027: Fellows pitch competition
Help Shape What's Next!
Your support helps emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in the beverage and hospitality industries access education, build skills, and make meaningful connections. Whether you contribute funding, share your expertise, offer mentorship, or provide products and services, you can help Crafted Fellows grow and thrive.
Let’s explore how we can make an impact together.
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? Complete the interest form below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are travel and lodging accommodations provided for selected Fellows?
No. Travel and lodging expenses are the responsibility of the selected Fellows.
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/ready to drink cocktails, kombucha, cider, and mead. The program is also open to adjacent industries such as agriculture and hospitality. If you have a question about eligible industries, please send us an email at craftedfellows@gmail.com.
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.
