What is the STEPUP Internship Program?

The STEPUP Foundation is dedicated to strengthening America’s spirits industry through an internship program that pairs passionate underrepresented professionals with experienced mentors and then places them at host distilleries and a wholesale distributor.
American craft spirits producers, interns, and mentors apply to be part of this one-of-a-kind program, which is designed to expand the talent pool within the industry.
We empower both interns and distilleries by fostering growth and strengthening the backbone of local businesses and communities.

What does my donation cover?

The current cost adds up to $70,000 per intern, per year.

STEPUP provides each intern with lodging, transportation, travel, career coaching, and a living stipend.

Your generous and continuing contribution could be going towards...

- A new pair of steel-toed boots for one intern.

- Safe lodging at extended-stay accommodations.

- Career coaching that will assist with resume building and interview techniques.

- Their living stipend so they can learn unimpeded by the stress of financial limitations.

- Bookings for travel & transportation to distilleries and the wholesale distributor.

Why is a program like this needed?

The Spirits Industry doesn't fully align with the diverse consumer base it serves.

Just take a look at some of these statistics...

American LGBTQ+ consumers account for about 8% of the nation's disposable income, roughly -- 1 trillion dollars, spending 55% greater per capita than non-LGBTQ+ consumers at Beverage Stores. (Kearney, 2019)
Black Americans account for 12% of alcohol sales, but only 7.8% of the spirit industry’s labor force. (Pronghorn, 2023)
As of 2023, less than 4% of the 2,700 American craft spirits distilleries are Black-owned. (WPXI-TV, 2023)
Of the 3.4 Million American Farmers only a little over 1% are Black. (NBC News, 2025)

STEPUP & Make a Difference!

Join us in shaping a more inclusive future—where craft spirits reflect the rich tapestry of America. Your support helps invigorate local businesses, celebrate heritage, and open doors for new entrepreneurs. Together, we can ensure that the essence of tradition and craftsmanship is truly accessible to everyone.

Donate today -- STEPUP to make a lasting impact!

STEPUP Internship Program

By Spirits Training Entrepreneurship Program for Underrepresented PROFE

STEPUP Internship Program

Expanding the spirit of craftsmanship by providing a hands-on, immersive internship program that opens doors for the next generation of industry talent.