NC State, brewing company come together to produce beer slated for August release

North Carolina State University is getting into the beer-making business.

The school and New Belgium Brewing Company reached an agreement Wednesday to produce Old Tuffy Premium Lager. It will be available in retail outlets beginning in August.

Under the agreement, New Belgium will provide annual support to student-success initiatives and research projects to help further develop the fermentation science program at the university, officials said in a press release Wednesday.

The agreement is for five years with an option for a five-year extension. The university will also receive a small portion of the proceeds, which will go toward the university's mission.

“We are excited to launch this collaboration with New Belgium and pleased to partner with an industry leader that is dedicated to supporting NC State’s academic excellence and that also shares our values of innovation, a commitment to sustainability and the importance of community service,” said N.C. State Chancellor Randy Woodson. “Among other benefits, the partnership will provide internships, fund ongoing student success initiatives, and help develop an academic program aimed at providing future leaders for North Carolina’s robust craft beer industry.”

“At New Belgium, we pride ourselves on proving that business can be a force for good,” said New Belgium Chief Executive Steve Fechheimer. “Supporting the education of innovative and creative minds in North Carolina embodies that spirit and further shows our commitment to the State. We couldn’t be more excited to be working with N.C. State.”