From Childhood Friends to Craft Beer Innovators
Imagine a bond forged in the schoolyard that blossomed into an entrepreneurial dream. Childhood friends Rich Bloomfield, Zack Day, and Greg Williams took their connection from the playgrounds of 4th grade to the bustling streets of Chicago, Illinois, transforming it into a thriving local brewery. These passionate individuals aren’t just brewing beer; they’re pouring their heart and soul into every bottle at Funkytown Brewery.
The Genesis of Funkytown Brewery
According to PorchDrinking, this trio of energetic Grambling State University alumni identified a gap in the Chicago beer market through their shared love of craft beer-making. Additionally, their keen observation at diverse gatherings in Chicago highlighted an untapped audience eager for inclusivity within the craft beer scene.
Identifying Community Needs
Bloomfield recounted, “At various functions featuring a mix of women, Black people, and Hispanic people, we noticed we were often the only group introducing craft beer.” This revelation sparked an idea. The founders saw an opportunity to cater to underserved communities with an unrepresented palate in the craft beer industry.
Explaining their vision, Bloomfield noted, “We shared our knowledge and in return, received invaluable feedback. Understanding these communities’ preferences, we could carve out a new niche. This propelled our dream to introduce these groups to the nuances of craft beer.”
The Rise of a Community-Focused Brewery
In 2017, the concept of Funkytown Brewery was merely a sketch on paper. By 2021, this sketch materialized into reality within the vibrant ecosystem of Pilot Project, a brewery incubator. In just one year, Funkytown produced an impressive 800 barrels of beer, with projections to double that output in 2023.
Such explosive growth didn’t confine their vision within Chicago. Their brand has begun reaching across state lines, touching beer enthusiasts in Wisconsin and Indiana with their inclusive and relatable approach.
Fostering Inclusivity in the Craft Beer World
However, for these founders, the brewery’s accomplishments transcend financial gains. They are deeply committed to nurturing diversity and representation in the beer brewing industry. “Our aim is to invite more Black folks, Brown folks, and women into the world of craft beer,” Day explained. “We’re doing this by creating approachable beers that lower the barrier to entry.”
By crafting brews with lower bitterness and more traditional styles, Funkytown is providing a welcoming ‘on-ramp’ into the craft beer community. The objective is to invite curiosity rather than deter potential enthusiasts with overpowering flavors.
Branding with a Purpose
Moreover, the Funkytown team is not only brewing inclusive beers but also promoting a diverse and inviting image through their product labels. “Our multi-faceted strategy includes representation of Black people and women on our labels,” Bloomfield shared. “We incorporate cultural, hip-hop, and community references—elements traditionally overlooked in the industry.”
This refreshing approach has not gone unnoticed. The founders have drawn significant support from Boston Beer, renowned for Sam Adams. Their participation in the Brewing the American Dream program led them to win the competition, garnering valuable mentoring, capital, and exposure.
Expanding the Dream
Looking to the future, this ambitious trio is aiming to elevate their venture further by opening their own brewery location, stepping beyond the nurturing walls of Pilot Project.
Day articulated his excitement: “Moving onto our own venue represents a new chapter. From homebrewing to professional leagues, this is the progression we’ve been striving for.”
What started as an elementary friendship has become a beacon of community, diversity, and exceptional brewing. Funkytown is more than a brewery—it is a testament to the potential of long-lasting friendships and the power of dream-chasing. It’s a journey that shows how three friends can make a mark on an industry, one craft beer at a time.
Conclusion: A Toast to Togetherness and Quality
The story of Funkytown Brewery is not just about beer; it’s about breaking down barriers and building bridges. Bloomfield, Day, and Williams continue to share their journey from 4th grade classmates to brewery founders, proving that with vision, commitment, and a little bit of hops, even the smallest dreams can ferment into reality. As they brew each batch with care, they’re not just blending ingredients; they’re crafting a legacy that celebrates community, flavor, and the enduring spirit of innovation.
Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer aficionado or new to the suds scene, Funkytown welcomes you to raise a glass to friendship, inclusivity, and the art of remarkable brewing. So, let’s toast to the tenacity of aspirations, the richness of diversity, and the extraordinary journey from a childhood pact to pouring pints that intrigue and unite. Cheers to Funkytown Brewery, where every sip is an invitation to a more inclusive world of beer.
After their first encounter sparked a shared passion for craft beer, the pals launch a promising brewing startup that has since evolved into a celebrated Chicago brewery. The article perfectly captures the journey from their initial meeting to the establishment of a venue that’s quickly becoming a staple among local beer enthusiasts.
After their first encounter sparked a shared passion for craft beer, the pals launched a brewing startup that has since blossomed into an impressive Chicago brewery. It’s delightful to see how their initial connection has poured into every pint at this beloved local spot, making the article about their journey an inspiring read.