Drinks brand founders based outside of North America are being invited to apply for Distill Ventures (‘DV’) – the world’s first independent drinks accelerator devoted to building and scaling the drink brands of the future.
Successful applicants will receive an initial investment of up to £350,000 as well as six to twelve months of bespoke acceleration and support, before having the opportunity to seek further investment from Distill Ventures and Diageo, or from other capital sources or strategic partners, without restriction. The deadline for applications is 9 June.
DV has so far invested £2 million in entrepreneurs outside of North America through the Pre-Accelerator. Since launching in 2021, DV has supported brands including VERVET, Atōst, Vascano Tequila, Kromanti and Lot42 and the ROW brands that DV has supported have so far won a combined total of 10 category medals at the Spirits Business Masters and World Rum Awards.
Cashain David, Co-Founder, Kromanti Distillery and Blending House, said, “Working with DV and being on the Pre-Accelerator has been a game-changer for us and our brand. The support we have received from the team goes well beyond just financial and has helped us to build strong foundations for our rum business.”
DV explain that this year, DV has strengthened the Pre-Accelerator by introducing a cohort structure, and opening it up to founders whose brands are not yet available in bars or retailers.
The programme for all successful ROW founders will start in the autumn, with brands receiving tailored support, as well as access to a modular learning programme undertaken alongside other founders in the cohort – creating a unique Pre-Accelerator community that allows each founder to learn and grow alongside other equally ambitious and passionate entrepreneurs.
Ara Carvallo, Portfolio and I&D Director, Distill Ventures, added, “The DV Pre-Accelerator is distinct in its approach. We’ve learned from our first 18 months of running the programme and we are constantly looking at ways to improve the experience for founders. Ultimately it remains a way for us to offer bespoke, hands-on guidance along with funding at all stages of growth, while ensuring that the founders lead their brands through the journey.
“We are looking for ambitious, innovative founders who have a quality liquid product and hold a clear vision for their brands. We believe that through investing in good products, and more importantly in good people, we can help advance our mission to increase diversity within the drinks industry.”
