Founded by Chris Jones and Jack “J. Ryce” Martin, Georgia Beer Co. opened in Valdosta in 2019 as one of South Georgia’s first craft breweries. It quickly became celebrated for its traditional styles and use of Georgia-grown ingredients.

Inside the taproom: Guests enjoy a welcoming atmosphere the founders hope feels like a “third space” apart from home and work where locals and visitors gather for events, tastings, and shared experiences centered around craft beer culture.

Historic roots: Housed in the former Valdosta Water Works building, the brewery rehabilitated and repurposed the space into its taproom, contributing to the revitalization of downtown Valdosta.

Regional influence: Georgia Beer Co. is a driving force in South Georgia’s craft beer landscape, fostering partnerships and industry growth across the region through locally sourced ingredients, growing product distribution, and participation in local festivals that encourages tourism and stimulates entrepreneurship.

Visit georgiabeerco.com to discover more about this 2026 Small Business ROCK STAR.