Eli Fish Brewing Company has been selected as the inaugural recipient of the New York State Brewers Association’s new Social Impact Grant, an initiative designed to foster equity, inclusion, and opportunity within the craft beer industry.
This $2,500 grant will fund the Cicerone® Certified Beer Server certification for all female staff at Eli Fish, giving them the tools and credentials to advance in a traditionally male-dominated field.
“We’re incredibly honored to be the first recipients of this grant,” said Adam Burnett, head brewer at Eli Fish. “It’s not just about professional development – it’s about confidence, credibility, and visibility. We believe this investment in our team will resonate throughout our brewery and our community.”
The NYSBA’s Social Impact Grant program will award $10,000 annually to support New York breweries that propose initiatives to promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and community impact.
“This is about putting our values into action,” said Paul Leone, executive director of the NYSBA. “Eli Fish’s proposal set a strong example of what this grant can do—providing lasting tools that empower the next generation of beer professionals.”
Eli Fish Brewing has long been a leader in the Western New York craft scene, known not only for its innovative beers but also for its commitment to community and culture. With this new initiative, the brewery continues to pave the way forward.
