March 9th, 2023 by WCBC Radio
The Maryland Department of Commerce’s Office of Tourism will open the application process on March 15 for the new Maryland Alcohol Manufacturing Promotion Fund. Applications will close on April 30 and reopen again on July 15.
“Maryland’s breweries, wineries and distilleries are a significant economic generator in our state, as well as a draw for residents and visitors alike, and this program offers a great opportunity to further expand this growing industry,” said Maryland Commerce Secretary Kevin A. Anderson. “We are committed to ensuring our brewers, distillers and winemakers have the tools they need to take this industry to the next level in Maryland.”
The fund was created in 2022 to support the creation and expansion of the state’s breweries, distilleries and wineries through a number of measures, including attracting new visitors; encouraging and creating incentives for special events: educating the public about alcohol manufacturing; encouraging the expansion of minority ownership and participation; and researching and developing incentives for how to promote the state’s agricultural products in the production of the state’s beer, wine, and spirits. To be eligible for a grant, applicants must either be a nonprofit organization under 501(c)(3) or (6) of the IRS code, or a state or local government unit.
“Value added products and businesses have been a game changer for Maryland agriculture,” said Maryland Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Steve Connelly. “This promotion fund will be of tremendous benefit not only to our producers but to Maryland’s economy as a whole.”
“Maryland’s craft beverage industry continues to grow and make an impact on the economy throughout the state,” said Jim Bauckman, director of communications at Grow & Fortify. “This promotional fund will allow us to reach more Maryland residents and visitors. Our promotional goals are meant to drive more growth, leverage our beverage alcohol industry as one of the best in the region and lead to more diversity among business owners and consumers.”
Maryland’s alcohol industry is a significant economic driver. There are more than 144 brewery licenses active in the state, with Maryland beer generating $917 million in economic impact and supporting more than 6,500 full-time jobs. Maryland wine accounts for $200 million in economic impact and more than 2,000 jobs, with 109 active winery licenses. And Maryland’s spirits industry is growing, with 47 active licenses currently in the state, $179 million in economic impact and supporting more than 1,000 full-time jobs.
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