Fast growing Aberdeenshire craft beer company BrewDog has announced a $50 million crowdfunding round in the United States, marking the fifth stage of its “Equity for Punks” investment programme.

This will be the first time Ellon-based BrewDog has raised funds in the United States.

BrewDog said it holds the “world record” for equity crowdfunding having raised more than £26 million in four rounds.

The company is now looking to raise up to $50 million for BrewDog USA in six months to finance its US expansion.

BrewDog’s UK business employs more than 600 people around the world, exports to 55 countries, and operates 44 bars.

The firm is now building a 100,000 square foot brewery in Columbus, Ohio — scheduled to open in late 2016 — which will feature a restaurant, taproom, retail space, visitor center and beer garden.

Equity for Punks USA shares cost $47.50 each and the minimum investment is two shares.

BrewDog co-founder James Watt said: “Equity for Punks is a completely new business model in the States – it’s a revolution in small business finance.

“It’s an opportunity to enlist the people of the nation who changed the beer landscape forever, and invite them to join our existing 46,000-strong global investor community.

“We’re asking beer fans to help us change the face of small business finance in the US and spread our passion for great craft beer.

“Few companies have been so bold as to turn their backs on traditional financial institutions in favour of a brave new world of community-driven business.

“We’ve pioneered the Equity Punk model in the UK, and now we’re bringing our unconventional approach to alternative business stateside.”