Hops for Heroes™ Has Evolved — and It’s Better Than Ever
April 30, 2026
Since its founding, Hops for Heroes has been one of our favorite ways to bring the craft beer community together in support of U.S. Service Members, Veterans, and Military Families. What started as a single, signature brew has grown into something even bigger, and we couldn’t be more excited to share what’s new.
From One Beer to Endless Possibilities
In the early days of Hops for Heroes, participating breweries all brewed the same beer: Homefront IPA — a traditional American IPA aged on maple baseball bats and released around Memorial Day. It was a beautiful, unified statement of support for our troops, and it helped put Hops for Heroes on the map.

But as the program has grown, so has our vision for what it can be. Today, Hops for Heroes is a flexible, purpose-driven campaign that lets breweries and taprooms participate in the way that works best for them. Rather than requiring a specific recipe, participating partners now choose from a variety of suggested “activations” – or create their own! Options include:
- Donating a percentage of proceeds from a tap line on a designated day
- Offering a round-up option at checkout
- Creating a dedicated wall where patrons can leave messages and donations for heroes
This new model means more breweries can say yes, and more communities across the country can raise a glass for a great cause.
Homebrewers Welcome!
Here’s something new we’re thrilled about: homebrewers can now join the Hops for Heroes family, too! Whether you’re brewing in your garage or competing in local homebrew competitions, you can create a personal fundraising page and share it at your next tasting. No taproom required.
The Window Is Wide Open
Participating breweries and homebrewers can host their Hops for Heroes activation anytime between Memorial Day and Veterans Day, giving partners the flexibility to pick the moment that works best for their community and calendar.


Spots Are Limited
To keep the program meaningful and manageable, only 50 spots are available each year. If you’re a brewery or taproom interested in joining this exclusive patriotic experience, we encourage you to register early.
Every Sip Still Supports Our Troops
What hasn’t changed? The heart of the program. Every activation, every pint poured, and every dollar raised supports Soldiers’ Angels and the programs that serve our Military community. That commitment — from breweries, homebrewers, and beer lovers alike — is what makes Hops for Heroes so special.



Ready to get involved? Register your brewery or taproom, find a participating brewery near you on our Brew Map, or simply spread the word to your favorite local spot. Together, every sip supports our troops.™
About the Author

Ashley Ray has been a member of the Soldiers’ Angels communications team since 2013. She supports blog writing and social media and loves telling stories of Angel volunteers, Service Members, and Veterans.


