There are more craft beer drinkers in America today than ever before, and the entrepreneurs behind that passion are the heartbeat of the industry. But building an independent brewery or taproom has never been easy, and right now the headwinds are real. That's exactly why Brewing the American Dream, Samuel Adams' philanthropic program, was built: to give craftspeople the tools, resources, and community they need to keep going. Amidst this climate, Brewing the American Dream is proud to announce the six finalists in its search for America's next top craft brewer to award the 2026 Brewing & Business Experienceship. This select group, chosen out of applicants all across the nation, will showcase their brews and personal business stories live at the fifth annual Crafting Dreams Beer Bash on Thursday, June 11th, 2026 at The Dumbo Loft & Terrace in Brooklyn, NY from 6:30- 9:30 PM. The event is free to the public, offering beer lovers the chance to meet the finalists, taste some of the best independent brews from around the country, enjoy tasty eats from local small business owners and cast their vote for the 2026 Experienceship winner. This year's finalists represent a diverse and passionate group of brewers from coast to coast, including: · Florian East Lagers & Ales – Hamtramck, MI · Immigrant Son Brewery – Lakewood, OH · Intermission Beer Company, LLC – Glen Alen, VA · Oak Park Brewing Co. – Sacramento, CA · Pilot Brewing – Charlotte, NC · Soul Mega LLC – Washington, DC

Since 2012, the Brewing & Business Experienceship has recognized and supported craft brewers nationwide by selecting one standout brewer each year to come to the Samuel Adams Boston Brewery, work side-by-side with a team of experts and mentors, learn the craft and business of brewing, and collaborate on a specialty beer with Samuel Adams. Now in its 15th year, the initiative is inspired by founder Jim Koch, who ignited the craft beer revolution more than 40 years ago. In addition to the finalist showcase and voting, the evening will feature complimentary Samuel Adams beer and bites from food vendors within the Brewing the American Dream small business network. Entry, drinks, food and other on-site activities are all free, all that's required is a ticket.

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