Craft Beverage Assistance Program

CBA services are designed to promote sustainable growth and resilience among Virginia-based producers, from start-ups to established and expanding companies.

If you are not already an SBDC client, you can register for CBA assistance here. Because CBA is housed within the International Business Development (IBD) Program, the registration page cites IBD. If you are an SBDC client, you can request CBA services through your regional SBDC office.

Services

Market Analysis

SBDC clients can receive assistance on a diverse range of topics related to their approach to market, from brand positioning and pricing strategy to channel mix and customer segmentation.

Sales Strategy

In the increasingly competitive drinks market, companies need to have a well-articulated approach to sales that emphasizes their strengths and responds to market conditions. CBA can help businesses craft a sales strategy that matches its goals and ambitions.

Back-of-House Operations

No matter the stage or scale, every craft beverage producer should strive to have efficient operational practices in place for all critical components of its business. CBA provides guidance on the proper development and implementation of internal procedures: staffing, production planning, growth management, and beyond.

Distribution & Logistics

For any company selling through third-party wholesalers, a well-designed and executed distribution plan is critical to long-term success; this is doubly true for producers operating within the three-tier system. CBA helps companies to maximize performance through sound distribution and logistics practices.

Marketing & Promotion

In order to command the attention of retailers and consumers alike, beverage producers must develop compelling marketing plans. CBA can help companies better articulate their products’ value and drive sales through brand positioning, event programs, and promotional material development.

Expansion & Exports

CBA is prepared to help companies grow into new markets. Domestically, businesses can learn about the sales environment and regulatory regimes of target markets. Companies interested in international opportunities can learn more about exporting by requesting access to the Craft Brewery Export Guide. When ready, they can take advantage of the joint resources of CBA and the International Business Development program.

Craft Beverage Conversations

Hosting Virtual F&B Restaurant & Retailers
Hosting Virtual F&B - Producers
Craft Beverage Finance - What You Need To Know Before Speaking With Your Banker
Craft Beverage QA/QC: Best Practices for Safeguarding Product Quality
Launching a Craft Beverage Business: Key Considerations for New and Planned Production Companies
Benchmarking Beer & Spirits: How to Leverage the Power of Data
Staying Above Board: Regulatory Compliance for the Craft Beverage Producer
Protecting Intellectual Property in the Craft Beverage Sector
Complying with Federal Alcohol Regulations: The Roles and Responsibilities of the TTB
Distributor Relations: Building Strong, Mutually Beneficial Relationships with Your Wholesalers
Putting Your Data to Work: How to Harness the Power of Sales Analytics
Virginia is for Craft Beverage Lovers: How Producers Can Leverage VTC Resources
Marrying Form and Function: Designing a Useful, Compelling Space for Your Craft Beverage Business
Building and Guiding an Effective Craft Beverage Sales Team
Strategies for Maximizing Tasting Room Performance in the Craft Beverage Industry
Responding to New Financial Realities in the Craft Beverage Sector
Earning Green by Turning Green: How Breweries Can Gain Efficiencies through Better Environmental Practices
The Power of the Press: Incorporating Earned Media into Your Craft Beverage Marketing Strategy
Making the Most of Your Craft Beverage Membership Club
Using SBA Finance Tools to Grow Your Craft Bev Business at Home & Abroad
How Craft Beverage Producers Can Build High-Impact Events Programs
Global Market Opportunity, Export-Readiness, and Key Trade Issues
Market Selection, Partner Identification, Export Strategy
Getting the International Deal Done
Craft Compliance: Key Regulatory Agencies Overseeing Alcohol Production
How Craft Producers Can Build Impactful Collaboration Projects

Contact

The Craft Beverage Assistance (CBA) program is managed by Chris Van Orden, who can be reached at cvanord@gmu.edu.