The Brewers Association is now accepting research and service grant proposals for 2019. Proposals will be accepted until May 31, 2018. Since 2015, over 60 projects have been funded, for a total investment of more than $1.2 million. In 2018, 17 grants were funded, totaling over $430,000.

The BA technical committee has updated its funding priorities, which are listed on the Craft Beer Research and Service Grants page. Proposals that focus on flavor and sensory outcomes are encouraged, especially as they relate to hops, barley and fermentation chemistry and analysis. Summaries of the projects funded in the past are provided for the benefit of BA member breweries and potential researchers, alike.

BA staff and select technical committee members review the proposals, and make recommendations to the board of directors, who ultimately determine funding levels and priorities on an annual basis. Those submitting proposals should expect to receive notice of the status of their submissions near the end of 2018. Submitters are also encouraged to be as specific as possible regarding the objectives, methods and desired outcomes of their projects. Projects that benefit the broadest set of BA member craft breweries will be priorities. For example, breeding efforts that focus on multi-state, collaborative programs are more likely to receive funding compared to those focused on developing varieties or strategies for growing in very specific locations. The BA also expects that the results of funded projects will be made public, to benefit the wider craft brewing community.

Submitters are encouraged to create a profile and familiarize themselves with the submission criteria. The proposal submission portal will close at 5 p.m. MT, May 31, 2018.