Humm Kombucha, an Oregon-based producer of kombucha, a carbonated black or green tea that contains fermented bacteria and yeast, will invest $10 million to establish a brewing operation in Roanoke, Virginia. The project will create approximately 50 new jobs.

Humm Kombucha co-founders Michelle Mitchell and Jamie Danek said, “Roanoke is filled with genuinely good people. They love Roanoke, have so much pride in where they live and many simply wouldn’t live anywhere else. Their outdoor amenities and culture are a huge part of their day to day. This environment and vibe is very similar to Bend. Aligning with a similar culture is a must to the ethos of our company. Combine that with Roanoke’s central location and the low cost of doing business there, and we’ve found the perfect second home for Humm.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with the City of Roanoke and the Roanoke Regional Partnership to secure the project for Virginia. Governor McAuliffe approved a $150,000 Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist the City with the project. Humm Kombucha is eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. Funding and services to support the company’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

“We are excited to add Humm Kombucha to Virginia's corporate roster, and are confident that this win will further enhance the Commonwealth's reputation as the best location for beverage manufacturing,” said Governor Terry McAuliffe, speaking at the announcement event. “Humm has strong ties to Deschutes Brewery, and this announcement is a great example of the ways that major projects can attract additional economic development opportunities. We welcome Humm to the Commonwealth, and celebrate another success in our efforts to diversify and build the new Virginia economy.”

“Humm Kombucha is a solid addition to the City of Roanoke and the region, which have worked tirelessly to attract great companies in food and beverage manufacturing,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Todd Haymore. “Kombucha is one of the fastest-growing products in the industry, and Virginia's reputation and skilled workforce in the food processing sector will provide a pipeline of talent for years to come. I congratulate the City of Roanoke, Roanoke Regional Partnership, and all the partners involved in bringing this innovative company to the Commonwealth.”