The North American Guild of Beer Writers is now accepting applications for the fourth year of its Diversity in Beer Writing Grant.
The goal of this grant is to highlight the value of stories that can showcase diversity and inclusion – in all its forms and challenges – within beer. To best align with this goal, and to support a growing collection of writers that have not traditionally been represented covering the beer industry, those who identify as female, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Winners receive a cash stipend for completed work.
From now through Feb. 7, applications can be submitted online using this form. Interested writers must provide a cover letter, two samples of work, and a pitch for their story idea that explores areas of diversity and inclusion in beer. A writer’s level of experience and previous outlets of publication will not be the determining factor in a successful application.
Previous coverage does not have to include the beer industry – an emphasis is placed on uniqueness of pitch and storytelling, not an intimate knowledge of beer. Written stories are encouraged, but pitches may also include photo essays or short audio documentaries.
Recipients will receive a stipend of at least 50 cents per word for their work, up to $1,000 (depending on the kind of story, length, and other factors), to be paid upon completion and publication of their story.
A key goal of the Diversity in Beer Writing Grant is to provide an opportunity for writers of all skills and experience levels to cover a topic of personal interest and gain exposure to the industry.
Pitches should contain as much detail as possible for your idea and structure of a story, and display a clear direction of what the story will be.
- Review of pitches will take into consideration the overall idea, proposed execution, potential list of interviews and scope of story.
- Ability to provide photos with text should be noted, but will not influence the overall strength of an application.
Any materials submitted after noon Eastern on Feb. 7 will not be considered. NAGBW leadership will review applications and announce a recipient or recipients in late February. Recipients receive editorial guidance and mentorship from NAGBW members.
See the work of previous recipients:
- Stephanie Grant (2020): Creating Safe Spaces for Women in the Beer Industry
- Alessandra Bergamin (2020): A Cross-Border Brew Fosters the Next Generation of Latina Brewers
- Louis Livingston-Garcia (2020): Brewing Change Collaborative Tackles Diversity in the Twin Cities Beer Community
- Beth Demmon (2019): Craft, Community, and Children: The State of Parenting in the American Beer Industry
- Adriana Fraser (2019) Celebrating Women in Beer at 2019 Beer With(out) Beards Festival
- Rebecca Johnson (2018): Pride, Not Prejudice: Brewing Safe Spaces for the LGBTQ+ Community
For questions or more information about the grant, contact Bryan Roth, NAGBW director, at bryandroth@gmail.com.
Complete an application with this form.
Underwriting for the 2021 Diversity in Beer Writing Grant comes from Allagash Brewing Company.
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