Cleveland Whiskey on Wefunder

Raise closed, search for fresh raises on Seedstage

Cleveland, OH

Raising capital to expand production, enter new markets, and advance proprietary whiskey technology.

  • Award-winning product line: Over 175 medals from global competitions and recognized as “Whiskey Innovator of the Year.”
  • Proprietary technology: Patented production methods allow whiskey to mature in hours, enabling faster product development and lower costs.
  • Expansion-ready facility: New 45,000 sqft riverfront space triples current capacity, with infrastructure for 20X growth.
  • International strategy in motion: Joint venture in India positions company for growth in world’s largest whiskey market.
  • Multiple revenue streams: Includes bottle sales, private labels, events, merchandise, and a planned on-site restaurant/bar.

Cleveland Whiskey is conducting a fundraising offering to support a significant scale-up of its production capabilities, expand its domestic and international distribution footprint, and further develop its proprietary whiskey-making technology. With over one million bottles sold and distribution in more than 20 states and multiple global markets, the company has positioned itself as a technology-driven disruptor in a tradition-bound industry. Its patented methods accelerate the whiskey aging process and create distinct flavor profiles using alternative woods instead of traditional oak barrels. This approach not only eliminates substantial production losses typical of traditional methods but also enables faster time-to-market for new products. The funds raised will help Cleveland Whiskey implement larger batch systems, purchase additional equipment, and enhance customer-facing experiences through facility expansions and a new on-site restaurant and bar.

As part of its growth strategy, Cleveland Whiskey is also targeting emerging international markets with a particular focus on India and Southeast Asia. It has entered a joint venture in New Delhi and formed key distribution agreements to bring American whiskey concentrates into the IMFL (Indian-Made Foreign Liquor) market. This expansion is supported by trade funding programs and leverages the company’s scalable technology for production and flavor innovation. Additionally, Cleveland Whiskey is exploring entry into the low/no-alcohol category and aims to use its existing platform to introduce high-fidelity alcohol alternatives. With a multi-channel sales model, expanding physical footprint, and a diversified product lineup, Cleveland Whiskey seeks to capitalize on shifting global market dynamics and elevate its valuation ahead of a potential future acquisition.

Company Info

Cleveland Whiskey uses patented technology to accelerate whiskey aging, producing award-winning spirits while scaling production and expanding globally.

Cleveland Whiskey is a Cleveland-based spirits company using patented and proprietary technology to transform traditional whiskey aging processes. Their innovation involves accelerating the whiskey maturation process using pressure and oxygenation rather than multi-year barrel aging, allowing for rapid product development and reduced costs. The company produces a diverse range of bourbons and flavored whiskies, including their award-winning Black Reserve, Black Cherry Wood-finished varieties, and seasonal offerings like Christmas Bourbon. These products have collectively won over 175 medals and are distributed through more than 3,100 retail outlets across 20 U.S. states and several international markets.

To meet growing demand, Cleveland Whiskey recently moved into a 45,000 sq ft riverfront facility, tripling its production capacity with infrastructure for a 20-fold increase. Expansion plans include launching a bar and event space to enhance direct-to-consumer engagement and revenue. The company is also targeting the low/no-alcohol market and expanding internationally through a joint venture in India. With a valuation of $43.2M and a strategic roadmap for scale and acquisition, Cleveland Whiskey combines technology, branding, and market agility to compete with major spirits brands while operating with the efficiencies of a tech-forward startup.

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