A South Okanagan brewery has been working hard to make a name for itself, and is now looking to the community for help in growing its business.

Oliver’s Firehall Brewery is a staple in the community as most people know Sid Ruhland, the owner, brewer, and operator of the business. The microbrewery is homed in the old Oliver firehall and has become a go-to place in the community for regulars and visitors alike. The brewery was born in 2011, in the heart of wine country, and the beer was flowing by 2012 and has seen tremendous success.

Photo Credit: Firehall Brewery

With three successful ales, a booming bistro, and plans to expand, Ruhland has launched a crowdfunding campaign to open a beer shop and social room and the idea already seems to be a hit. Ruhland hopes to raise $12,232 to expand his business. There is currently a massive room next to the brewery that has previously been used as private hang-out space and jam room for the staff.

But instead of leaving the space unfinished, Ruhland wants to build a bar, install a draught system and plumbing, and create a fun, local hang-out space for beer drinkers.

Photo Credit: Firehall BreweryThe space is as it currently sits. Wasted space as Sid calls it.

“We’ll be able to pour samples, explain the craft, retail bottles and merchandise, fill growlers to-go, pour pints for on-site enjoyment, host music jams and vinyl nights, and tap frothing artisan casks," explained Ruhland.

In order to pay for the renovations, Ruhland has turned to crowdfunding to make the dream a reality. But the fundraising campaign does not simply collect funds to build his business, Ruhland wants those who back the plan to be front and centre in the new room. He plans to thank backers by creating signs to go up in the beer shop for all to see the humble origins of the small town business. A large table will also be signed by backers for all to see. Stools can be a reward for those who give larger donations, and if the stretch goal is reached, a grand-opening party will take place for the entire community.

Photo Credit: Firehall BreweryThe young entrepreneurs hope to expand their business.

Ruhland’s business plan is clearly thought out and laid out for all to see on the Kickstarter campaign page. Including stretch goals, Ruhland has addressed all issues and concerns with his campaign, including securing a liquor license for the space. The crowdfunding campaign will end on Apr. 15 and if it is successful, the goal is to have the doors open but late May 2016, in time for the upcoming tourist season.

The Old Firehall brewery is located on Highway 97 south and on average, 10,000 cars drive past the building daily.

Photo Credit: Firehall BreweryCosts are well thought out for the expansion.

“Since we’ve opened, the Bistro on the main floor of the Old Firehall building has had to suffer through continuously telling often-frustrated locals that the brewery itself is not open to the public, and retail beer to-go can only be purchased at liquor stores elsewhere. The people have spoken; they want brewery-fresh beer from the source,” adds Ruhland.

The campaign, which was launched on Mar. 16, is about half-way to its goal.

Photo Credit: Firehall BrewerySid has had a sign made as he hopes his dream will become a reality.

The family based business came from humble beginnings as Ruhland began his self-guided brewing career while studying business at Okanagan College in Kelowna. His ambitious ideas have proven successful and he hopes that the community will help him reach the next step in his entrepreneurial career.