Co-op brewery taps crowdfunding

Co-op brewery taps crowdfunding

High Five Co-op Brewery is a grassroots effort to create Michigan's first cooperatively owned and operated brewery. Photo via fb.com

A brewery that’s been trying to get its start since 2012 is nearing the end of a crowdfunding campaign.

"Focused on fundraising"

The High Five Co-op Brewery in Grand Rapids started its grassroots effort to become a full-fledged operation more than two years ago, has more than 100 members and has launched a Kickstarter campaign in an attempt to raise $15,000. It is one of five cooperative breweries in the country.

The Kickstarter campaign runs through Thursday and is only funded if all $15,000 is pledged.

The $15,000 would be used to help secure a facility and brewing equipment.

Short-term investments are also being solicited with varying returns on investment.

“The group of people who’ve dedicated the last few years to build Michigan’s first cooperative brewery are excited about the future,” said Nick LaVelle, president, High Five Co-op Brewery. “With over a hundred of us, we felt it was the right time to start exploring all of our various fund raising methods.

“The Kickstarter campaign is only the beginning of an exciting new phase in the brewery’s life. We will continue to host our fun group events and do collaboration brews around Grand Rapids, but now we are focused on fundraising.”

The brewery has collaborated with several area breweries in fundraising efforts, including Harmony Brewing Co., Mitten Brewing Co., Rockford Brewing Co., Grand Rapids Brewing Co. and Gravel Bottom Brewery.

Membership

Members bought in with a one-time $150 fee.

All members are allowed to vote on the direction of the brewery.