What types of trips do you offer?
Please see our enrichment trip page for a full list of our programs. Our trips in-person single-day intensive programs, 2-15 day domestic and international trips, mentorships, harvest internships and online virtual trips.
How are Enrichment Trips formed?
SommFoundation collaborates with sponsors to determine curriculum, agenda, timeline, and criteria for the trip. Trips may be sponsored by groups, individual companies, or individuals.
Who can apply for your enrichment trips?
SommFoundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation. Our mission is to benefit the public. All beverage professionals and associated service providers are welcome to apply, provided you meet the specific trip criteria.
How can I apply?
All applications are posted on our website HERE. We also post opportunities on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Make sure to follow us @sommfoundation.
I have already been on an enrichment trip and/or received a scholarship through SommFoundation. Does this exclude me from consideration?
SommFoundation gives priority to applicants who have not been on a trip in the last 36 months. However, this is a guideline and not a rule and we have made exceptions. We also differentiate between domestic and international trips. Receipt of a scholarship in the last 2 years does not make you ineligible.
What is your criteria for selecting trip recipients?
Each trip will have its own unique selection criteria. However, we do take the following into consideration for all trip applications:
1. Ability to travel (permission from work) travel documents/passport if required (this will be due immediately upon acceptance).
2. Affiliation: Currently working in or for the beverage industry. Sponsors may request more specific qualifications such as buying power, specific accreditation, social media savvy, etc.
3. Region: We attempt to equitably represent the major regions of the US (South/East/West/Midwest).
4. Commitment to responsible participation in the trip.
5. Responses to application questions: We are looking for candidates who have invested considerable thought in their essay responses. We like to see evidence of a willingness to work, creativity, and knowledge of the applicable area and its producers.
Do I need to have a certification or be a member of a wine organization (such as GuildSomm, WSET, Court of Master Sommeliers, Society of Wine Educators, etc.) to apply?
No. SommFoundation opportunities are open to the public. All professionals are welcome to apply, provided you meet the specific trip criteria.
I live outside the United States. Am I eligible to apply?
Each trip has a specific set of geographic requirements. Please see the individual application to determine your eligibility.
What is the criteria to be chosen for an enrichment trip?
Our enrichment trip attendees are chosen based on need, merit, professional history, references, and suitability to the program. The one criterion that is always present is the desire to learn and, in turn, carry that knowledge forward.
Who chooses the trip recipients?
Our Director of Enrichment Trips, James Lechner, oversees the enrichment trip selection process.
May I apply for more than one trip?
SommFoundation encourages you to apply for all trips that you are eligible for.
What happens if I submit multiple applications for the same trip?
SommFoundation will consider the most recently submitted application.
After I have applied for a trip, when will I be notified of my standing?
The SommFoundation Director of Enrichment Trips goes through a thorough blind vetting process which typically takes 2-4 weeks.
If I have been awarded a trip, how will I be notified?
Once you have been selected, SommFoundation will notify you via email or a phone call.
Will I be notified if I was not selected?
All applicants will be notified of their standing. Check the website for the current status of the notification process.