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Chicago Startup Crowd-Sources Beer Ideas

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A Chicago startup is developing a first-of-its-kind online game to give craft beer fans the opportunity to design their own virtual brew – with the chance to see it brewed for real.

The leading craft beer website, Brewed in Chicago, is behind the online game concept – called ‘Craft Your Beer’ – and is aiming to raise $15,000 through an Indiegogo campaign to support its growth.

The game will give players the chance to get creative by developing their very own virtual brew. They’ll be able to choose from a mix of common ingredients and unusual flavors, as well as give it a unique name and label design.

The public will be able to vote for their favorite beer ideas online and taste some of the most popular brews at Empirical Brewery’s tap room, with plans to brew and distribute the overall winning beer ideas on a seasonal basis.

The Founder of Brewed in Chicago, Brian Busche, says: “As a home-brewer, the idea of creating unique beer styles has been rewarding, but it also means cleaning the equipment – thankfully, you’ll never have to clean your computer after making virtual beer.”

“Craft Your Beer is exciting news for the craft beer industry. Fans get to take their passion to the next level by producing beer and competing against each other, breweries will be able to avoid the uncertainty of experimental beer by following what’s popular in the game and consumers will benefit from new beer ideas that make it into the marketplace.”

Brewed in Chicago is a startup working out of the 1871 tech incubator. Its website offers a comprehensive list of breweries, beers, bars, and events throughout the local Chicagoland market.

Show Your Support

In order to make Craft Your Beer as successful as possible, Brewed in Chicago is encouraging supporters to purchase a range of packages through its Indiegogo campaign, including sponsorship opportunities for craft beer brands, as well as the chance to have early access to the game and tickets to exclusive events, such as the VIP launch of the winning brew. What’s more, every supporter is given a unique referral web link and supporters with the most referrals will be rewarded.