The Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing and Distilling (MJF) is teaming up with ProBrewer to drive a $100,000 matching fundraising challenge by Brooklyn Brewery that will launch today and culminate May 2nd at the THRIVE sessions for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion during the Craft Brewers Conference.
Every dollar donated up to $100,000 will be matched by a generous grant by The Brooklyn Brewery, creating the opportunity to raise over $200,000 in the next month for brewing industry inclusivity.
The MJF is a grant-making organization that funds scholarship awards to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) within the brewing and distilling trades. The program is open to candidates at the beginning of their careers, as well as those looking to continue their education. The MJF awards present an opportunity for members and patrons of the brewing and distilling industries to directly fund a more just, equitable, and dynamic future.
Throughout April ProBrewer will be promoting the matching challenge with the goal of raising the matching $100,000 from as many donors as possible. Fundraising is as important for expanding the MJF mission and the number of recipients as is program reach and impact. Having thousands of allies give $5, $10 or $20 is as valuable as bringing in larger donations. It can speak volumes about the inclusive and collaborative nature of a business committed to progress.
“ProBrewer is a great fit and partner for the grant challenge,” says MJF Chairman, Garrett Oliver. “It’s where brewers find talent and their jobs along with resources to support every step of their career. The MJF is about advancing access for under-represented and under-estimated talent through technical scholarship support.”
Brooklyn Brewery President, Robin Ottaway, adds “I think a lot of us want to make a difference but don’t know where to start. I hope this matching grant challenges our fellow brewery owners to step up and take some doubly effective action.”
It’s estimated that less than 2% of brewhouse personnel are BIPOC talent while making up over 40% of the US population. We hope you’ll join our campaign for a more inclusive and equitable industry. Make your pledge to help now: https://givebutter.com/mjf100kmatch