Aurochs Brewing is a technology company.
Aurochs Brewing has raised $35K across 1 funding round.
Aurochs Brewing has raised $35K in total across 1 funding round.
Aurochs Brewing has raised $35K in total across 1 funding round.
Aurochs Brewing's investors include Innovation Works, Monozukuri Ventures.
Aurochs Brewing Company is not a technology company; it is a craft brewery specializing in naturally gluten-free beers. Founded in 2012 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (with operations in Emsworth, PA), the company brewed a range of beers using gluten-free grains like millet, quinoa, and buckwheat from dedicated suppliers, targeting beer drinkers with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.[1][2][3][4] It offered core year-round beers such as Blonde Ale, Session IPA, Amber Ale, Porter, Light Lager, and Hazy IPA, all produced in a 100% dedicated gluten-free facility, and achieved recognition including a Gold Medal at the 2020 Great American Beer Festival for its Hazy IPA.[2][4] The brewery raised $3.11M in funding, with the last round of $1.08M five years ago, distributed kegs and bottles regionally, hosted taproom events, and built a loyal following before announcing it would cease operations by the end of 2024 after over a decade of operation.[1][2][4]
Aurochs Brewing was co-founded in 2012 by Ryan Bove and Doug Foster, both motivated by personal gluten intolerance—Ryan diagnosed in his twenties and Doug with celiac disease since childhood.[2][3] The idea emerged from their desire to create flavorful craft beers safe for those with gluten sensitivities, using ancient grains like those from Grouse Malt House in Colorado, which provided malted millet and quinoa.[3][4] Early traction came from innovative recipes, such as a White Ale with Czech Saaz and German Tettnang hops, and rapid expansion to over 40 unique styles within the first few years, including seasonal experiments like Pumpkin Spice Brown Ale.[2][4] The team grew with dedicated staff, and the brewery earned praise for its people and progress, distributing to local shops, restaurants, and taprooms while maintaining a fully gluten-free production process.[2][4]
Aurochs Brewing participated in the "Alcohol Tech" niche, which includes craft producers innovating in beverages like gluten-free and specialty beers amid rising demand for dietary-specific options.[1] It rode trends in health-conscious drinking, celiac awareness, and craft beer diversification, using specialized grains and processes to fill a market gap for flavorful gluten-free alternatives when mainstream options were limited.[2][4] Timing aligned with growing gluten intolerance diagnoses and premium non-traditional beer interest, influencing the ecosystem by proving viability—producing award-winners and expanding footprints—while paving the way for competitors like Holidaily Brewing and Jump Ship.[1][2] Its closure by end-2024 reflects challenges in the competitive microbrewery space but underscores evolution in inclusive beverage production.[2]
Aurochs Brewing concludes its run by end-2024, having delivered on its mission to elevate gluten-free beer through innovation and quality, leaving a legacy of over 40 styles and regional impact.[2] Post-closure, remaining inventory may sustain short-term availability, but its influence persists in inspiring gluten-free brewing advancements amid ongoing trends like non-alcoholic and allergen-free crafts.[1][2] The broader ecosystem may see consolidated growth in specialized producers, with Aurochs' story highlighting both the rewards of niche focus and microbrewery vulnerabilities—ultimately proving gluten-free beer can rival traditional crafts.[2][4]
Aurochs Brewing has raised $35K across 1 funding round. Most recently, it raised $35K Seed in July 2020.
| Date | Round | Lead Investors | Other Investors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 1, 2020 | $35K Seed | Innovation Works, Monozukuri Ventures |