Checkerspot Brewing Collaboration Release: The Story Behind the Winners of the 2022 Brewer Experienceship 

In 2008 Jim Koch’s passion for entrepreneurship and helping others chase their dreams inspired him to create Samuel Adams’ philanthropic program, Brewing the American Dream. Driven by the pursuit of chasing the American Dream, Brewing the American Dream provides thousands of small business owners around the country with critical advice to gaining access to capital, networking, and business coaching. The different programs have impacted over 14,000 entrepreneurs, retained 9,000 jobs, and lent close to $100,000,000.  

One of Brewing the American Dream’s signature annual programs, the Brewer Experienceship, is designed to help one craft brewery grow their business and gives the winner an opportunity to brew a collaboration beer with Samuel Adams. The 2022 winners, Judy and Rob Neff of Checkerspot Brewing Company, are releasing their Rye IPA in collaboration with Sam Adams on April 28th.  

Checkerspot Brewing Company, founded by Judy and Rob in 2018, offers thoughtfully crafted, small batch beers at their taproom in Baltimore, Maryland. Like Samuel Adams, Checkerspot is deeply dedicated to giving back, showing their love for their community through a series of charitable programs. Judy and Rob truly embody the values of Brewing the American Dream; they believe in beer that tastes good and does good, often giving back to organizations like The Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter, Baltimore Military Muster and many more through fundraisers and collaboration beers. 

Over 50 breweries applied for the 2022 Brewer Experienceship, and were eventually narrowed down to just five finalists. The final decision was deliberated by a panel of judges, including Boston Beer Company founder Jim Koch, at a new live event – the first annual Crafting Dreams Beer Bash in New York City. Each of the five finalists shared their own signature beer with the judges, along with the unique story behind their business. At the end of the night, the panelists and the audience alike made it known that Checkerspot stood out against the rest, and the two Baltimore brewers were crowned the winners of the 2022 Experienceship.  

Rob and Judy owe their success to their passion for brewing, their love for their community, and of course, their delicious signature beer! Their winning brew, Inspiration IPA, is a reduced-gluten IPA brewed with Maryland rye. You can join us on April 28th from 5-8pm to taste this one-of-a-kind beer with a free charcuterie board from City Feed & Supply to celebrate entrepreneurs in the brewing industry. We’ll also have an evening of live music from taproom favorite Dan DeCristofaro and a pop up appearance of Top Shelf Cookies. Enjoy some pints - support small brewers!