For many, the craft beer scene makes for an enjoyable experience and a fun night out with friends. Some people enjoy craft beer so much, they decide to venture into the business themselves, creating their own recipes for others to enjoy. One such person is Matt Pennisi, entrepreneur, craft brew connoisseur, and now proud owner and Manager of the Durty Bull Brewing Company, LLC.
Early on in his career, Matt knew that he eventually wanted to open his own craft brewery. With this end goal in mind, he focused on choosing work that would teach him valuable skills that he could put to use when he reached the point of business ownership. He began his career working in quality manufacturing in the pharmaceutical industry. After a couple of years in this position, he moved into beer sales - all the while working on and perfecting his recipes at home and writing his business plan.
Fast-forward a couple of years, and with his business plan in hand, Matt made the decision to begin seeking funding for his very own craft brewery in the Durham area. He was referred to FNB Small Business Finance, where he connected with Business Development Officer Michael Byers. According to Matt, Michael helped him to perfect his business plan before submitting the application for SBA financing. With Mr. Byer’s expertise, Matt was able to secure the funding he needed to build his business from the ground up.
Here’s what Matt Pennisi had to say about working with Michael Byers:
Michael was a great partner to have during this process. He worked with me from start to finish - from helping me structure and present my business plan to closing the loan. I had never done anything like this before, but Michael made me feel at ease by giving me updates on a daily basis. He was always there for me - I really can’t thank him enough for his help!
With the funds he acquired from the SBA 7(a) loan, Mr. Pennisi has started construction on his 15-barrel craft brewery and tasting room. Durty Bull Brewing Company is unique in that they will specialize in barrel-aged and sour beer. They use old-world brewing techniques, such as aging their beer in giant oak barrels called foeders, for 1-3 years. Their sour beer - a mixed fermentation made with the same bacteria in sourdough and sauerkraut - is an unconventional type of beer that many craft breweries do not offer. The outcome is a very clean, creative, and delicious product that will be sure to please craft beer lovers everywhere.
Durty Bull opened in Spring 2016.
Durty Bull Brewing Co.
206 Broadway Street, Suite 104
Durham, NC 27701
919-688-2337
To learn more about acquiring an SBA loan to meet your company’s needs, contact us today at 919-881-1666 or Visit His Bio Page.
