SACRAMENTO, CALIF. – Today, Republic FC and Citizens Business Bank announced that At Ease Brewing Company – a craft brewery in Midtown founded by retired Army Colonel Mike Conrad – has won the first of two Small Business Showcase partnership packages. The announcement coincides with Small Business Week (May 2-8), celebrating the resiliency and indomitable nature of the small businesses in our region and beyond that contribute to the economy and vibrancy of our community.
“At Ease Brewing Company would like to thank Sacramento Republic FC and Citizens Business Bank for their support of local small businesses. Due to our loyal customers, we were able to survive what we hope was the worst of the COVID pandemic,” said Mike Conrad, Owner & Brewer at At Ease Brewing Company. “As first winners of the 2022 Small Business Showcase, we believe this award will assist us in getting to the next level and provide more opportunities to grow our business and support our Sacramento community and the dozens of non-profits that we have worked with these past 3 years. Go Republic!”
“At Ease Brewing Company is an exceptional example of the resilient and rising businesses in the region, and we’re excited to call them one of our Indomitable partners,” said Republic FC Chief Revenue Officer Dustin Vicari. “With the support of Citizens Business Bank, we’re thrilled to help Mike and his team reach new audiences and share their product, which is a true labor of love.”
“The response to the first round of the Small Business Showcase was incredible and we want to congratulate At Ease Brewing Company, not only for winning the first prize package, but for creating a truly special business that supports the community,” said Michael Stain, SVP & Regional Manager. “Republic FC have created some special opportunities for At Ease, and we’re looking forward to what comes from the second round of nominations.”
At Ease Brewing Co. was selected from a pool of nearly 50 applicants of locally owned and operated small businesses. Five finalists were selected to present to a panel that included representatives from Republic FC and Citizens Business Bank, as well as local small business advocates and leaders and Republic FC Kickstart 2019 winners Sugar Coated Cupcakes.
After an initial consultation with Republic FC and regional marketing experts, At Ease will receive a custom, half-season partnership package, beginning on May 4 when the club hosts New Mexico United. Through the partnership, At Ease will be introduced to Republic FC fans through several activations including game day tastings, summer watch parties, and serving a variety of At Ease beer on matchday at the stadium.
The two organizations will also partner on limited-edition merchandise including pint glasses, cobranded coasters, and more as an element of the Blood, Sweat & Beers Council launched earlier this year. At Ease will also expand its presence through the club’s digital channels, as well as by activating the LED advertising ribbon around the field during games and in the club’s broadcasts. On July 9th, At Ease will join the club in celebrating and honoring veterans and members of the Armed Forces during the team’s annual Salute to Service match.
Through the club’s partnership with Citizens Business Bank, the second Small Business Showcase will launch on July 11. To be notified of the next round or learn more about the program, visit SacRepublicFC.com/small-business-showcase.Through the Small Business Showcase, qualified businesses will be invited to a Small Business Mixer at an upcoming match to learn about opportunities through Citizens Business Bank, Republic FC, and several local business advocates to help support their development.
Beyond the showcase, Republic FC will continue to work with local businesses to enhance the game-day experience with food and beverage, provide members with gifts and products that represent the best of the region, and showcase the businesses throughout our community that bring our neighborhoods together.
Republic FC’s season continues tonight, when the Boys in Old Glory Red host New Mexico United. Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. at Heart Health Park and tickets are available at SacRepublicFC.com/tickets. The game will also be broadcast on Antenna TV 40.2 – in English and Spanish, available via SAP function, as well as streaming on Fox40.com and the Fox 40 News mobile app. The game will also be available on ESPN+.
