REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL: Distilling Research Grant

Distillers Research Grant Program (distillingresearch.org)

The Distillers Research Grant (DRG) is a non-profit 501(c)3 dedicated to funding open source research that will tackle the important questions being asked by today’s craft distillers. DRG is funded by the American Distilling Institute’s (ADI) online auction house, filled with donations from the world-class vendors of supplies and equipment used in the distilling and beverage industries. Proposals are reviewed by an independent advisory committee which then awards grants. ADI is proud to offer administrative support to a strong independent advisory committee invited from academia, industry, government, and independent consultants to evaluate proposals for innovation in craft distillery. Since 2003, the American Distilling Institute (ADI) has worked hand-in-hand with craft distillers to build an industry driven by innovation, a commitment to excellence and a willingness to bet on the long shot.

The 2020 call for proposals will accept grant applications to support the development of any technology, software, or process improvement that has the potential of enhancing and advancing the craft industry. Awards are typically for less than $7,000 and are not intended to support wages but will support the purchase of tools and or software to build novel technologies, design process controllers/enhancers, or pay for contract services to analyze the raw material or products of alcoholic beverage production.  Examples of previously awarded proposals may be found here.  Applications are under 4 pages in length and are due by midnight on November 25th 2020, and grant awards will be announced on or before . Instructions, and an example grant (adapted from the ADIs first awarded grant) may be found here. Grant applications that don’t adhere to the written instructions or page limits will be returned without review. We look forward to reviewing your applications.

Click here to submit your RFP. Proposals will be considered and feedback given by June 15th, 2021.

List of Committee members:

Robin A. Felder, PhD, Sole Proprietor, Monte Piccolo Farm and Distillery

Ron Gomes, Ronald R. Gomes, Jr., Ph.D., “Modern Alchemist” Co-Owner, Painted Stave Distilling

Steve Gould, Founder, Golden Moon Distillery

Henric Molin, Owner, Spirit of Hven Backafallsbyn

Mathew Pauley, Assistant Professor Heriot-Watt University

Tom Collins, Assistant Professor of Viticulture, University of Washington

Liz Rhoads, PhD, Founder, SpiritSafe