August 05, 2025 9:02 am

2026 marks the sixth year in a row the DISCUS Innovation Showcase has been held

For the sixth year in a row, the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) is hosting its Innovation Showcase competition honoring pioneers in the spirits industry and their innovations in packaging, technology, product development and much more. Nominations open today and will remain open through September 19.

All interested innovators should complete this form to be considered.

“The DISCUS Innovation Showcase continues to feature amazing ingenuity within the industry,” said DISCUS President and CEO Chris Swonger. “I am excited to see what new innovations are in store for us this year. DISCUS is proud to continue to highlight important work being done across our industry that will drive progress and ensure long-term success for our sector.”

The Innovation Showcase, sponsored by Spearhead Global, recognizes and awards top innovators selected by a panel of judges and public voting.

Prize packages will be awarded at the 2026 DISCUS Annual Conference being held March 3-5 next year and range in value from $5,000 to $20,000, including a $10,000 cash prize for the Innovation Showcase winner to support their creative endeavors.

“Spearhead Global is proud to sponsor the Innovation Showcase for the sixth year in a row,” said Heather Fritzsche, CEO of Spearhead Global. “We are in an industry filled with innovation across all facets from marketing, tech, production, flavoring, sustainability and, of course, packaging. These innovators give us a glimpse into the future that inspires entrepreneurs and enthusiasts across the spirits industry.”

Once nominated, six top innovators will be selected to advance to phase two where they will participate in a live virtual presentation on November 5, 2025, before a panel of judges who will score the innovation based on its originality, feasibility, market potential, sustainability, concept, value, scalability and impact. Members of the public can view the showcase and vote for their favorite innovation as part of that process.

Previous Innovation Showcase Winners

2025 Winners

• 1^st place: Reservoir Distillery; Virginia Heritage Grain Project
• 2^nd place: Modern Cooperage
• 3^rd place: Dapper Barons

2024 Winners

• 1^st place: Devil’s Cask  
• 2^nd place: TAPI USA  
• 3^rd place: Sothern Glazer’s Wine and Sprits  

2023 Winners

• 1^st place: Steric Systems  
• 2^nd place: Brother Justus  
• 3^rd place: Voodoo Scientific  

2022 Winners

• 1^st place: SoMax 
• 2^nd place: Bacardi 
• 3^rd place: TAPI USA  

2021 Winners

• 1^st place: Lallemand DistilaBact LP 
• 2^nd place: Siponey  
• 3^rd place: Pratt Industries