In the vibrant and ever-evolving landscape of American craft beer, Spaceway Brewing Company continues to chart an impressive course, not only expanding its physical presence but also garnering national accolades for its innovative brews. The Rocky Mount, North Carolina-based brewery, founded and led by the visionary Briana Brake, is set to open a new taproom in the heart of downtown, marking a significant milestone in its mission to redefine the craft beer experience. This exciting development, announced in September 2025, is being supported by a community-driven Wefunder campaign, inviting enthusiasts to invest in a future where Afrofuturism meets exceptional craft.
Briana Brake, the force behind Spaceway Brewing, has been a trailblazer since launching the brewery in November 2018. Her commitment to creating unique, full-flavored beers while fostering a sense of community is evident in every aspect of her brand. The new downtown Rocky Mount taproom is poised to become a central hub for this community, offering a dedicated space for patrons to explore Spaceway’s distinctive portfolio.
This expansion comes on the heels of significant national recognition for one of Spaceway Brewing’s most beloved creations, the “Tiny Beekeeper Honey Saison.” At the prestigious 2025 National Honey Beer Competition, the Tiny Beekeeper earned both a Bronze medal for Best Belgian-Style Ale and a Silver medal for its innovative Label Design. This dual honor underscores Spaceway’s dedication to both the artistry of brewing and compelling brand presentation.
The philosophy of Spaceway Brewing, deeply rooted in Afrofuturism, aims to “destroy the space between us” by imagining a future where minorities are not only represented but are leading characters in all cultural narratives, including the craft beer industry. Briana Brake, as a Black woman brewer, is a testament to this vision, constantly pushing boundaries and inspiring a more inclusive and diverse industry. The brewery's success, including its acclaimed Don Dada can art being recognized among USA Today's 2021 Top 10 Craft Beer Labels, further solidifies its position as an influential voice in the craft beer world.
The growth of Spaceway Brewing resonates with the broader movement of Black-owned beverage brands gaining prominence and breaking barriers across America. As we’ve seen with other pioneering brands like Urban Garden Brewhouse celebrating its historic Juneteenth grand opening (as we reported), and the ongoing efforts of Rhythm Brewing to expand its reach, Black entrepreneurs are consistently demonstrating innovation and resilience in a historically underrepresented industry.
The Wefunder campaign for the new downtown Rocky Mount taproom offers a unique opportunity for individuals to become part of Spaceway Brewing's journey, directly supporting a Black-woman-owned business that is not just brewing beer but also fostering community and cultural change. The funds raised are intended to fuel inventory, support the taproom build-out, and enhance marketing efforts, ensuring that more people can discover and enjoy Spaceway's distinctive brews.
In an industry often criticized for its lack of diversity, Spaceway Brewing Company stands as a shining example of how passion, quality, and a powerful cultural narrative can lead to significant success and widespread recognition. With a new taproom on the horizon and award-winning beers already making their mark, the future looks exceptionally bright for Briana Brake and Spaceway.
Sources:
- Spaceway Brewing Company | Rocky Mount NC - Facebook
- Meet Montgomery Co.'s First | Black Viking Brewery - City Lifestyle
- Reserve in Spaceway Brewing Company | Culture-driven craft brewery and taproom | Wefunder, Home of the Community Round
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