Skip to main content

Acton University 2024 Mobile Banner

Entrepreneurship is an important aspect of American civil society. We often focus on the negative effects of business: false advertising, crony capitalism, tax cheats, environmental polluters and the like. While these are real problems that require serious attention, we too often forget about the positive contributions that businesses make to society—simply by being a business.

As entrepreneurs and investors build their businesses, they not only create goods and services and provide jobs, but they can also play an important role in creating social cohesion and developing a vibrant civil society.

Come join us for a complimentary beer on Tuesday, March 20 as Brett Vanderkamp, Founder and President of New Holland Brewing Co., will discuss his entrepreneurial journey and how New Holland Brewing Co. has played an integral role in the local community.

 

 

Speaker

Brett VanderKamp
New Holland Brewing Company, LLC

President

Holland, Michigan seemed like an unlikely place to create some of the most innovative beer and spirits in America. But Brett VanderKamp believed that his hometown and the brewing industry were due for shakeups. He was 24 years old when he started New Holland Brewing Company in 1997 in an abandoned factory with his best friend and $10,000. He has spearheaded the company’s growth and innovation since its inception.

New Holland is recognized as one of the leading innovators in the craft brew and distilling revolutions sweeping the planet. With nearly 500 team members, New Holland’s craft beer and spirits are sold across the US in 38 states, and internationally in four (4) countries. New Holland’s retail presence includes two full-service restaurants (Holland and Grand Rapids), two brick-and-mortar stores and an online store.

Brett has become a leader not only in his industry but in the community as well, serving on various boards including the Holland Chamber of Commerce and its Public Policy Committee. He has been chairman of Jubilee Ministries, a faith-based nonprofit working to revitalize Holland’s most troubled neighborhoods. He is a founding member and past president of the Michigan Brewers Guild (MBG), a trade organization for over 250 Michigan brewers. Brett also acted as chairman of the MBG Government Affairs Committee. In 2011, Brett was honored as one of Grand Rapids Business Journal’s “40 Under Forty” business leaders, heralding his dedication to innovation and community. In 2015, he was honored as Michigan West Coast Chamber’s Small Business Person of the Year. Brett currently serves as a member of the Board of Directors for Samaritas, sitting on their Strategic Task Force Committee.

Brett’s entrepreneurial spirit and artistic sensibilities are at the very heart of New Holland. As the original visionary, Brett imagined the path that New Holland pursued to become what they are today. He serves as President, overseeing the corporate and leadership teams, and continuing to forge their path into the future.

Brett has two sons, Brayden and Quinn, with his wife Pam. They live in Holland, MI and enjoy family vacations, outdoor sports and Michigan summers.

Event Details

Start Date

End Date

Location

The Knickerbocker: New Holland Brewing Co. (Zeppelin Lounge)
417 Bridge St. NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
United States

Schedule

 

Doors Open: 6:00pm
Lecture Begins: 6:30pm
Q&A: 7:00pm
Event Ends: 7:30pm
Each attendee will receive their first beer on us. Food available for purchase.