Breweries Experiencing Economic Roadblock Fund

For years, San Diego has ranked as the nation’s top craft beer destination, known to many as the “sunny heaven for suds lovers.” San Diego has branded the craft beer industry not only as a tourism contributor but as a main economic driver.

With the largest number of craft breweries in a single county in the United States, it is imperative to ensure that the craft beer industry continues to thrive in San Diego. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has critically affected the ability of local craft breweries to survive.

As of July 1, 2020, local breweries that do not serve onsite food are no longer permitted to operate.  Furthermore, breweries that are still allowed to operate must manage an onsite kitchen or operate in conjunction with a food truck or caterer present at the facility. These regulations directly inhibit the ability for breweries to operate and serves as a potential deterrent for breweries to remain in business. As a result, there is a critical need for funding to ensure that these local businesses survive the pandemic.

The San Diego Brewers Guild is proud to be a resource for breweries, tradespeople, restaurants, and craft beer aficionados. Founded in 1997, the Guild is a nonprofit organization that seeks to promote San Diego breweries and create an open line of communication among brewers — connecting a strong and vibrant community.

As such, San Diego Councilmember Chris Cate (District 6) and Supervisor Jim Desmond (District 5) are partnering with the San Diego Brewers Guild to establish a Breweries Experiencing Economic Roadblocks (BEER) Fund to aid San Diego craft breweries directly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The relief funds would be distributed through the San Diego Brewers Guild at their discretion to local San Diego County breweries in need.