Brett VanderKamp’s hometown of Holland, Mich. seemed an unlikely place to create some of the most innovative beer and spirits in America, but in 1997 Brett believed that his hometown was due for a shakeup. He was 24 when he started New Holland Brewing Company in an abandoned factory with his best friend and $10,000. In 2012, New Holland was recognized as one of the leading innovators in the craft brewing and distilling revolution sweeping the planet. With nearly 150 team members, New Holland’s craft beer and spirits are sold in 15 states, plus Washington, D.C. Brett has become a leader not only in his industry but in the community as well, serving on various boards. He has been the chairman of Jubilee Ministries, a faith-based non-profit working to revitalize Holland’s most troubled neighborhoods. He is a founding member, as well as the past president and Government Affairs Committee chairman of the Michigan Brewers Guild. In 2011, Brett was honored as one of Grand Rapids Business Journal‘s “40 Under Forty” business leaders.
