It’s not breaking news to say there aren’t many women owners across beverage alcohol, or to say there are even fewer Black women in ownership positions. That’s why when a company helmed by an African-American woman does launch, it’s essential to explore who they are, what they’re doing, and how we can understand their endeavors to help move industry cultures forward. 

Monique Gray is the founder of Momentum Cider, a fledgling cider brand out of Long Beach, California, and the recipient of the inaugural Creator Launchpad Grant from Beer Kulture and Women of the Bevolution. Both organizations aim to provide resources through mentorship, scholarships, grants, opportunities for collaborations, and much more in order to improve equity and accessibility in beer and beyond. 

Monique is relatively new to cider, but she’s unabashedly passionate about its history, traditions, and place on contemporary shelves and menus. As a lifelong entrepreneur, she decided to transition from a career in wellness into cider after falling in love with the beverage and discovering a passion to share it with others. She sees herself as a pioneer in the space, with a goal to open the first Black woman-owned cidery in California. 

In this episode, you’ll hear how (and when) she plans to accomplish that goal, using the resources and connections from the grant, as well as other local organizations and partnerships like an upcoming collaboration with Benny Boy Brewing. You’ll hear Monique describe what it was like to receive the grant and why she takes the responsibility of this opportunity very seriously. A guiding principle of her career has been the ability to ask “Why not?” when trying something new, and so far, it’s paid off. Let’s hear how, right now.