Corrales native Joel Gregory opened Ex Novo Brewing Company in Downtown Albuquerque in 2024, a risky move to revitalize a blighted area. Investing $5 million in an old building, his vision aimed to boost the city's core. Ex Novo, meaning "from scratch," started in Portland as the first nonprofit brewery, donating all profits to charity. Gregory returned to Corrales in 2019, and opened a brewery, taproom and beer garden. Despite pandemic challenges and selling his Oregon sites, the Corrales location survived. Ex Novo gained recognition through New Mexico State Fair partnerships. The new Albuquerque location with a patio and restaurant reflects Gregory's local pride. Ex Novo has also donated over $175,000 to the community, attracting people back to downtown. Learn more at .
