Cider’s time might finally be here — and the American Cider Association (ACA) is launching its first-ever capital campaign to seize the moment. The campaign, aptly titled “It’s Cider’s Time,” aims to raise $250,000 to elevate cider’s visibility, build advocacy muscle, and educate both trade and consumers. One of the biggest early backers? Seattle-based Schilling Cider, which just kicked things off with a $25,000 contribution.
“Cider is having a moment—and thanks to Schilling Cider’s generous gift, the American Cider Association can do even more to keep that momentum going,” said ACA CEO Monica Cohen.
Cider Association initiatives
Schilling’s support is a bold investment in the category’s future, helping power key ACA initiatives including:
- Hiring a dedicated lobbying partner to boost cider’s voice in federal and state policy conversations.
- Expanding education programming, including a 10% annual growth goal for the Certified Cider Professional program and the launch of new restaurant training resources.
- Reaching new audiences, through initiatives targeting retailers, distributors, and broader beverage buyers.
- Reimagining CiderCon, the ACA’s flagship event, to draw even greater participation and open up new sponsorship opportunities.
“We’re thrilled to partner with ACA to build a stronger cider community,” said Colin Schilling, CEO & Co-Founder of Schilling Cider. “By supporting the ACA’s efforts to expand education, advocacy, and awareness, we’re helping create opportunities for all cider makers to thrive and reach new consumers.”
Schilling’s commitment
Schilling’s commitment to cider education and advocacy goes back years. The company helped launch National Cider Month, operates two cider bars that serve more guest ciders than their own, and has long focused on bringing new consumers into the fold. That mission aligns squarely with the ACA’s national push — one that comes at a pivotal time for the beyond-beer category.
The campaign already has a solid foundation, with early contributions from Bauman’s Cider, Portland Cider Co., Original Sin Cider, Farmhaus Cider Co., Vermont Cider Co., Humboldt Cider, and 2 Towns Ciderhouse.
Cohen noted that this is a full-industry moment: “We’re calling on others in the cider community to join the campaign at any level — because it’s cider’s time, and we need everyone at the table to make it count.”
