Dogfish Head founders to deliver Chamber of Commerce keynote

Two of Delaware’s most high-profile entrepreneurs, Dogfish Head Brewery founders Sam and Mariah Calagione, have been announced as keynote speakers for the 183rd Delaware State Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner on Jan. 6.

The affair, held at the Chase Center on the Riverfront, is a major networking event, and includes the presentation of the Josiah Marvel Cup, honoring a Delawarean who has made an outstanding contribution to the state, community or society.

Dogfish Head was Delaware’s first brew pub, launched as a startup in 1995 in Rehoboth Beach. At the time, it was the smallest commercial brewery in the U.S., with just three kegs and near-continuous brewing to keep them filled.

Today, Dogfish Head has a brewery, three restaurants in Coastal Delaware, an inn in Lewes, a distillery and a philanthropic branch called Beer & Benevolence — and is one of the most well-known craft brewers in the U.S. In May, Dogfish Head made a $300 million deal to merge with with Boston Beer Company, the makers of Sam Adams beers.

“Sam and I are excited to share our story with Delaware’s amazing business community,” said Mariah Calagione in a statement. “From starting as the smallest brewery in the U.S., through continual production and hospitality expansion, adding a distillery, right through merging with one of the most dynamic companies in the beverage industry, we are having a blast, and we look forward to a fun evening with many of Delaware’s leaders and entrepreneurs.”

Tickets start at $275 for Chamber members and $350 for non-members. For more information and to register, click here.