Jefferson’s Bourbon announced the Marian McLain Entrepreneurial Fund* contest to inspire and empower innovative minds with the tenacity exemplified by founder Trey Zoeller’s 8^th generation grandmother, Marian McLain. Spearheaded by two prominent entrepreneurs – Zoeller in partnership with Shark Tank’s Barbara Corcoran – the contest includes $25,000 in awards hope to motivate budding entrepreneurs looking to kickstart new business ventures. 

After Marian’s husband died in the Revolutionary War and to support her five children, she turned to the illegal production and distribution of liquor. Then, in 1799, she became one of the earliest documented women in American whiskey as a result of being arrested for bootlegging and moonshining. Her tenacity ultimately became the inspiration for the Jefferson’s brand, and now, with the help of Corcoran, the brand wants to inspire others to do the same.

“Just like Marian, I took big risks to create something for myself, and for my family, even when it was incredibly hard,” said Corcoran in a news release. “But with big risk comes big reward – that’s what being an entrepreneur is all about – and that’s why I’m partnering with Jefferson’s Bourbon to bring the Marian McLain Entrepreneurial Fund to life.”

The Fund’s launch is also perfectly timed with the release of Jefferson’s newest bourbon – Marian McLain – a blend of five unique bourbons: 21% 14-Year-Old Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey; 40% 11-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; 14% Wheated Double-Barrel; 17% Rum Cask Finish; 8% 8 Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. 

“We started Jefferson’s on a shoestring budget and with Marian’s vivacious spirit in mind – it’s why we do what we do,” Zoeller said. “This entrepreneurial fund is our way of helping other people who, like Marian and Corcoran, are risking everything to pursue their dreams.”

On the Jefferson’s website, small business hopefuls are welcome to submit their innovative business ideas with a short video. The grand prize winner, handpicked by Zoeller and Corcoran will receive $20,000 in funding to kickstart their venture, as well as a congratulatory call from Corcoran, and a “shop talk” interview with Trey. Five runners up will also be selected to win $1,000 awards – the amount Barbara Corcoran started her business with; small budgets can build big dreams!

Submissions close on May 7, 2023. For all details and information about the fund contest and how to enter, visit www.JeffersonsBourbon.com/MarianMcLainFund.