In an open letter dated October 30, 2026, Cultivate + Craft principals Kelly Dudeck and Janna Howley announced they would close shop at the end of the year. Kelly Dudeck currently serves as the Executive Director for the Brewers Association of Maryland (BAM).
C+C was formed in 2023 after Kevin Atticks, principal of Grow and Fortify, was selected as Maryland Secretary of Agriculture for Governor Wes Moore’s administration. Grow and Fortify (GAF) served as executive director for the Brewers Association of Maryland (BAM), the Maryland Wineries Association, and the Maryland Distillers Guild. The two primary GAF lieutenants, Dudeck and Howley, then formed Cultivate + Craft to continue the work GAF began.
What this means for the future and administration of BAM is yet to be determined.
“The Brewers Association of Maryland (BAM), founded in 1996, is the non-profit trade association of Maryland brewing companies. The mission of BAM is to grow, promote and protect the Maryland craft beer industry.”
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
After much thought and many difficult conversations, we've made the bittersweet decision to close Cultivate + Craft at the end of 2026.
For those who have been part of our journey, you know our work began long before C+C was formed in 2023. Between Grow & Fortify and Cultivate + Craft, we've spent well over a decade championing Maryland's growers, makers, and producers, building partnerships, and bringing people together.
Our approach was always a little unconventional, built on the idea that organizations could accomplish more by sharing resources and expertise. For many years, that model served us well, but as the landscape changed, sustaining it became increasingly challenging.
And what a chapter it's been!
Many of you have worked alongside us in one capacity or another for many, many years. You've been our colleagues, collaborators, partners, and friends. This truly feels like the end of an era, and one we are incredibly proud to have been part of.
While this chapter may be coming to a close, the friendships and connections we've made along the way are here to stay. We look forward to seeing where life takes us next, and hope our paths continue to cross!
Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. It's been one heck of a ride, and we're so grateful to have shared it with you!
With gratitude,
Kelly & Janna
Cultivate + Craft
