Flagstaff's Motherlode Brewing Co. is tapping into that community spirit and opening its doors to potential investors through an equity crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine to fund its expansion and new product development. The craft beer producer, which claims to be the third-largest brewery in Arizona, initially aimed to raise a modest $15,000 to an ambitious $2 million. ABC15The investment campaign has been extended until November 4th, and so far has raised more than $666,500 from 574 investors, bringing the company's valuation to $40.04 million.

Motherroad's choice to work with StartEngine rather than going down a traditional investment route is in keeping with its community-focused approach, allowing people from all walks of life to own an equity stake in the company. Motherroad Founder and President Michael Marquez expressed his appreciation for the inclusive platform: Phoenix Business Journal“Start Engine has provided a really great way for members of the public who want to be part of the story with us to get involved.”

To adapt to changing consumer tastes, Motherlode plans to expand beyond its acclaimed craft beers, with Marquez signaling a rebranding to “Motherlode Beverage Company,” which reflects an industry-wide trend of consumers wanting a variety of alcoholic beverage options, Marquez said in an interview. Phoenix Business Journal“Longer term, to keep up with changing customer and consumer preferences, we will probably become 'Motherlode Beverage Company,' rather than 'Motherlode Brewing Company.'” The brewery's research and development team is currently looking at a range of beverages that may soon hit the production line.

Since its founding in 2011, Motherroad has expanded its reach from a local taproom to a production brewery, with a distribution network in Arizona, New Mexico and Southern Nevada, and supported by partnerships with major distributors such as Hensley Beverage Co., Premier Distributing and Nevada Beverage, its products are sold in more than 5,300 distribution locations, including well-known venues and retailers such as sports arenas, chains such as Burrows Pizza and Pita Jungle, and major grocery stores. In 2023, Motherroad saw sales increase 19%, soaring to nearly $10 million, despite finishing the year with a loss of $1.2 million, signaling both operational challenges and potential growth prospects in the brewing sector.