BearKat Brewing Company: Building Better Beer, Together
Posted by kayla.banda | Start the discussion
Raising a Glass to Community
Rooted in Pacific Northwest brewing traditions, BearKat Brewing Company was founded with a clear intention: to make high-quality beer while creating a place where people genuinely feel welcome. Owned by Shawn Bayer and Jill Katsis, the Sherwood-based brewery operates a 7-barrel brewhouse producing artisan-style ales and lagers refined through direct customer feedback.
Since opening to the public in September 2025, BearKat has quickly established itself as a true “third place”—a relaxed gathering spot where people from all backgrounds can connect, unwind, and build relationships. As the owners describe it, “We love serving as a welcoming gathering spot for people of all ages and backgrounds.”
As a female-owned business, BearKat Brewing Company is also deeply committed to community engagement beyond its taproom walls. The brewery regularly partners with local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, reinforcing its belief that beer can be a catalyst for connection and collective good. This philosophy is reflected in the company’s guiding principle: “Better Together.”
Brewing the Business (and the Capital)
Like many brick-and-mortar startups, BearKat faced significant challenges early on—particularly around financing a capital-intensive brewery buildout and developing a strong, executable business plan. Turning a vision into a physical space required careful planning, realistic financial modeling, and the ability to clearly communicate the business’s long-term potential.
“Thankfully, the SBDC and the Capital Access Team helped us.”
Through its work with the Portland Community College Small Business Development Center (PCC SBDC), BearKat Brewing Company reached several critical milestones that helped move the business from concept to opening day. With guidance from PCC SBDC advisors, the owners refined their business plan and marketing strategy, clarifying both their operational roadmap and their long-term vision for the brewery.
“SBDC helped us refine our business plan and marketing strategy. We were able to generate a compelling story backed by well-developed financial estimates for the company. This assistance helped us secure an SBA 7(a) loan, which was utilized to complete construction at our facility.”
Beyond capital access, PCC SBDC supported BearKat through the final stages of launch, including preparation for opening to the public. Advisors worked alongside the owners to ensure the grand opening aligned with the business plan they had developed, helping them execute their vision thoughtfully while putting systems in place to support early operations and future growth.
Early Pours, Early Momentum
In its first months of operation, BearKat Brewing Company has already reached several meaningful milestones. The business successfully launched to the public, has maintained steady early operations, and has hired six staff members to support taproom service and daily business needs.
Beyond these tangible markers of progress, the owners point to early community response as a key indicator of success.
“Since opening in September, it has been exciting to see guests returning multiple times and also witnessing new friendships being formed in our taproom.”
Perspective for Other Entrepreneurs
Reflecting on their experience working with the PCC SBDC, the BearKat founders emphasize the value of having knowledgeable guidance during a complex startup phase. They shared that the PCC SBDC provided practical resources that supported both planning and execution, while ongoing mentorship helped them navigate challenges as they arose.
They also offer this perspective to fellow founders:
“It’s going to feel like a constant uphill battle. And that’s okay. Don’t panic. Just be persistent.”
Swing by BearKat Brewing Company in Sherwood for a fresh pour, good conversation, and a community that truly lives the idea of Better Together.
Ready to Ignite Your Entrepreneurial Journey with the PCC SBDC?
Are you ready to embark on your entrepreneurial journey or seeking support to take your small business to new heights? The PCC SBDC is here to help. Reach out to us and let your journey begin. BearKat’s story is just one example of the countless success stories our clients have created. Embrace the joy of entrepreneurship and create your unique path to success!
Want to learn more about how the PCC Small Business Development Center can help you start or grow your business?
The Oregon SBDC Network is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. Additional funding is provided by the Oregon Business Development Department, and other private and public partners, with Lane Community College serving as the Network’s lead host institution. SBDC services are provided in a nondiscriminatory way to all legal residents and citizens in the US. Language services are available for limited English proficient individuals.
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