Building a More Inclusive Brewing Community

As Missouri’s craft beer scene continues to grow and thrive, it's essential that our industry reflects the diverse communities we serve. One organization leading the way in creating a more inclusive and equitable craft beer landscape is the National Black Brewers Association (NB2A) — and it’s time we get to know who they are, what they stand for, and how we as a guild can be part of the movement.

What is the National Black Brewers Association?
Launched to support and empower Black brewers, brewery owners, and professionals across the United States, the National Black Brewers Association is the first national organization solely dedicated to increasing Black representation and success within the brewing industry. Despite the vibrant and rapidly growing nature of craft beer in the U.S., Black-owned breweries make up less than 1% of the market. NB2A is working to change that.

Their mission is rooted in advocacy, education, and building community. Through programming, partnerships, and resources, NB2A seeks to level the playing field — not just by increasing visibility for Black brewers, but by helping remove the systemic barriers that have historically limited access to ownership, capital, and industry networks.

Importantly, membership in the NB2A is not limited to people of color. They welcome all allies, advocates, and craft beer professionals — including members of the Missouri Craft Brewers Guild — who are committed to fostering a more diverse and inclusive industry.

Why It Matters
Craft beer has always been about creativity, collaboration, and community. Yet, the industry has not always reflected the full spectrum of the communities it serves. 

By supporting the NB2A and its mission, we’re not only helping uplift underrepresented voices in beer — we’re also investing in the long-term health and sustainability of craft brewing itself.

How MCBG Can Get Involved
The Missouri Craft Brewers Guild has a powerful platform and a track record of supporting breweries across the state. Here are a few ways the Guild and its members can actively support NB2A and help foster a more inclusive craft beer community:

• Collaborative Engagement
  Invite NB2A members to speak or participate in Guild events, conferences, or panels to share their experiences and perspectives.
• Mentorship & Education
  Develop or support mentorship programs, training opportunities, and internships specifically designed to welcome and uplift aspiring Black brewers.
• Build Access Points
  Create more pathways for NB2A members and Black-owned breweries to get involved with the Guild, including sponsorships for memberships, scholarships for events, or business development resources.
• Join the NB2A
  Missouri brewers, suppliers, and industry supporters are encouraged to join the National Black Brewers Association as members or allies. Your participation helps build a stronger, more representative craft beer community nationwide.

Looking Ahead
The NB2A isn’t just creating space for Black brewers — it’s enriching the craft beer community as a whole. As a collective of passionate brewers in Missouri, we have an opportunity to be part of this change and help set the tone for a more diverse, welcoming, and innovative industry.

For more information about the National Black Brewers Association, visit their website or reach out directly to explore partnership and membership opportunities.

Together, we can raise a glass to a more inclusive future — one pint at a time.

The Missouri Craft Brewers Guild is also honored to share that one of our own, Annie McGinnis of Vine Street Brewing in Kansas City, MO, serves on the Executive Board of the NB2A. Her leadership, both locally and nationally, exemplifies the spirit of progress and collaboration that defines our brewing community. Please reach out to her directly if you have any questions regarding the Association at [email protected].

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