A major grants fund that provides funding for scientific research and education in the brewing industry has begun inviting applications for funding in 2017/18 via the BBPA website. Under the Brewers’ Research & Education Fund (BREF), applicants have just under three months to submit their bids, with a deadline for funding applications of 31st March 2017.

The BREF supports vital technical research into projects such as improving brewery environmental footprint, dispense hygiene surveys and developing new hop varieties as well as a variety of educational activities.

The fund was created on proceeds from the sale of the BBPA’s original headquarters in Portman Square, central London. The Worshipful Company of Brewers acts as Trustee and administers the fund, with the BBPA providing the secretariat and publicity.

BBPA Chief Executive Brigid Simmonds comments: “I’m delighted the fund is open for another year. BREF has supported many important projects over the years. It is a great legacy from the Brewers’ Society and the Institute of Brewing, and I would encourage applications.”