Applications Now Open for the Diversity in Beer Writing Grant 2023

The North American Guild of Beer Writers is now accepting applications for the sixth year of its Diversity in Beer Writing Grant.

The goal of this grant is to highlight the value of stories that showcase diversity and inclusion—in all its forms and challenges—within beer. To best align with this goal, and to support journalists who 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 payment for completed work. 

Underwriting for the 2023 Diversity in Beer Writing Grant comes from the Brewers Association, Allagash Brewing Company, Crafted For All, and Craft x EDU. 

Application Information

  • From now through June 1, applications can be submitted online using this form.
  • Interested writers must provide a brief introductory statement about themselves, two samples of work from any type of coverage (beer or non-beer; written, visual, or audio), and a pitch for their story idea that explores areas of diversity and inclusion in beer. 
  • Pitches for multimedia projects, including audio, video, or social media-focused ideas are welcomed.
  • A journalist’s level of experience and previous outlets of publication will not be a determining factor in a successful application. 

Previous coverage and experience does not have to include the beer industry—emphasis will be on the uniqueness of the pitch and its storytelling, not an intimate knowledge of beer. 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.

The Pay

Chosen writers will receive payment of 50 cents per word for their work, up to $1,000. Adjustments for pay will be accommodated if a selected pitch is another media format. Length of story or other project will be agreed on with editors before reporting. The final amount will be paid after completion and publication of a story. 

Your Pitch

Pitches describing your story idea should contain as much detail as possible and display a clear angle. Review of pitches will take into consideration the overall idea, proposed execution, potential list of interviews, and scope of story. We’re seeking stories of all kinds from all over, and welcome submissions that tell stories about:

  • Homebrewing
  • Festivals focused on inclusion and engaging new audiences
  • Efforts to advance knowledge and appreciation about beer
  • Profiles of interesting people, places, and organizations
  • Topical news or historical insights focused on culture and community
  • The intersection of beer with other community groups

This is not an exhaustive list and we encourage original reporting on all topics of diversity, equity, and inclusion. An applicant’s ability to provide photos with text should be noted, but will not influence the overall strength of an application.

Deadline and Review Process

Any materials submitted after 11:59 PM ET on June 1 will not be considered. NAGBW and leadership from CraftBeer.com and Crafted For All will review applications and announce a recipient or recipients in June. Recipients will receive editorial guidance and mentorship from NAGBW members.

Stories will be published by craftbeer.com and/or Crafted For All. 

Previous Stories

Familiarize yourself with past stories to understand the kind of reporting that has come from the Diversity in Beer Writing Grant:

For questions or more information about the grant, contact Kate Bernot, NAGBW director, at katebernot@gmail.com.

Complete an application with this form.

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