The big question that drives people around the world to take bold steps, innovation and change is: “What if..?” We think these magical words and a world of possibilities opens up in our minds. The founders of the American brewery Founders also asked themselves this question and still use it today as a driving force for their flourishing company.
Mike Stevens and Dave Engbers share a great passion for good beer. Long before the two decided to start their own brewery, the two enjoyed drinking beer. When they opened the doors to their own brewery, business initially started well. After a year, the two ambitious founders were able to open a taproom where fans of Founders Brewing Co. could taste the beer. Mike and Dave themselves stood behind the counter and tapped the freshly brewed beer. A year later, the slump followed: sales slowly declined and the taproom was only sparsely visited. Mike and Dave kept themselves afloat with tips, but there was hardly any real income. What the brewery lacked was its own identity. The beers had no character and were lost in the mass of American brewing products. When the landlord threatened to throw Mike and Dave out, along with the brewery and bar, the two finally took the initiative and made fundamental changes. In the end, Dave and Mike threw caution and caution to the wind and did what they should have done from the start: they started brewing beers that they enjoy drinking. Courage, taste and passion took hold and brought about the long-awaited turnaround.
The desire for beers with a strong character and intense flavor attracted Jeremy Kosmicki to the hallowed halls of Founders. The innovative brewer joined the company and brought a breath of fresh air and a lot of daring ideas with him. Dirty Bastard was the forerunner of all creative creations and ushered in a new era. More and more artistic beers followed, which made Founders a name in the beer business. From then on, the numbers exploded and Founders Brewing was barely able to keep up with the growing demand. The team and the brewery are constantly growing. In addition to outstanding beer, values such as diversity, equality and inclusion are important to the brewery. The brewery also launched the organization “The Big Pitcher,” which actively supports public institutions and communities. Funds and support are used to set up events, sponsor clubs and promote art and culture.
Find our hand-picked selection of the finest beers from Founders Brewing Co. here!
Founders Brewing Co.
235 Grandville Ave SW
Grand Rapids
Vereinigte Staaten von Amerika 
