New Belgium Brewing Company, makers of Fat Tire Amber Ale and a host of Belgian-inspired brews, began operations in a tiny Fort Collins basement in 1991. In addition to producing world class beers, New Belgium takes pride in being a responsible corporate role model. Their Tour de Fat is a multiple-city, philanthropic bikes and beers festival that raises money for local non-profits. Progressive programs like employee ownership, open book manage-ment and a trip to Belgium after five years employment are all part of the corporate culture. New Belgium was the first wind-powered brewery in the country and remains the only fully wind-powered brewery to date.
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