Most of us start one step above where we started. We create connections. We use our learned experiences. We implement every resource we have to try and be successful. This is most true when one hopes to begin a new business.
Pilot Project does for brewing what studios do for musicians. Giving access and providing a “leg up”, Pilot Project helps first-time brewers get their first shot.
“Brewers can launch in our Chicago location,” Abel said. “We also have a much larger spot in Milwaukee that allows us to scale our brands nationally.”
The idea for Pilot Project came to musician and Pilot Project co-founder and CEO, Dan Abel and his partner when they saw the clear creative connection between music and brewing.
“My wife and I had just had our first baby, and brewing was my new creative outlet,” Abel said. “My business partner Jordan and I went through all the research and realized that starting a brewery is about a $5 million endeavor.”
“The margins are low in the industry,” Abel said.
“These brewers are never in a position to grow or build their own brewery because they don't have the money.”
Knowing that economic access leads to less diversity, Abel and his partner wanted to encourage a greater level of equity in the field as well. Pilot Project upholds its DEI mission by providing incubation equipment. Brewers can then get added exposure by being featured in Pilot Project’s tasting room and restaurant.
“Potential partners apply online,” Abel said. “At this time about one thousand people have applied, and around 250 have gotten callbacks. The next step is a phone call where we learn their vision, aspirations, and concept.”
After this initial process, Abel and his colleagues meet the remaining applicants in person. This step allows them to select brands that reflect their mission.
“During the audition, we will usually try the product,” Abel said. “We’ll also discuss the business model, the brand model, and product strategy. We incubate brands that are a reflection of us.”
A large part of that reflection is allowing access for all and creating a space that values all perspectives.
“What happens when you lower the barrier to entry in an industry?” Abel said. “You actually see a reflection of what the world really looks like–you get diversity. You get people open to innovating and experimenting because they can.”
When the time came to think about expanding into Indiana, Pilot Project felt that working with Indiana Beverage would be the perfect fit.
“Once we brought them in and pitched them on the concept, it immediately landed with them,” Abel said.
“There are only so many people that ‘get it’ and understand the necessity of this model in our industry. They did immediately, and they came forward with a lot of integrity.”
The ultimate goal of the Pilot Project is to invest in the creativity of brewing and allow their partners to start a journey they wouldn’t have otherwise.
“Our business model is to invest in these brands,” Abel said. “We want them to grow and leave the coop, and so we still get to that kind of think local, but we can act globally."
Patrons can visit Pilot Project at their Chicago location at 2140 N Milwaukee Ave. Open every day but Monday, visitors can enjoy a full menu, explore their products, and enjoy a robust coffee bar.
To learn more about the Pilot Project please visit https://www.pilotprojectbrewing.com/.
