Help Springfield Get Their Brewery!

A few months ago, two good friends and I reached the first major milestone in the realization of our dream to open a brewery in our hometown of Springfield, Vermont. We succeeded in purchasing an established brewery and moving its equipment to Springfield. We secured a lease for space in the Fellows Gear Shaper building, which was once a bustling center of industry in our town. Over the past few decades, Springfield, once known for its manufacturing industry, has seen a rapid decline in manufacturing; this has resulted in the decline of satelite businesses such as restaurants and stores. Springfield is not seen as a tourist destination, and is for the most part overlooked and bypassed by out-of-state ski traffic. Vermont is a unique state, which boasts more craft breweries per capita than any other state in the US. There are currently no breweries in Springfield, in fact the nearest brewery is a half-hour drive from us. Vermont has become a destination for connoisseurs of craft beer; we want Springfield to be part of this. Our project has been funded by a number of sources, including the Town of Springfield. Unfortunately we have incurred some unforeseen costs related to the building we are moving in to. Although we have several other financial hurdles to contend with, we are seeking $41,400 for our project. $26,400 will fund carpentry work and materials, and approximately $15,000 will be used to upgrade the sprinklers in our space. This work is necessary to bring our space up to fire code and although not originally our responsibility, has become ours due to a number of circumstances. We love Vermont and we love the town we grew up in. We believe that the success of our business will positively impact Springfield. We have received a tremendous amount of support from our town, and this about something much bigger than ourselves and making beer. We would be greatful for any help. Thank you!