Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in agriculture but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alexander Sage, co-founder of Urban Farms, located in Boulder, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We're a technology company with a vision to use robotics and artificial intelligence to grow food ethically and sustainably for all. We are developing a custom operation that allows us to cut the price per head of greens by 75%, providing the potential for lower-income people to have access to fresher food.
Tell us about yourself
Food insecurity and the environmental footprint of our current agricultural practices are serious concerns for a destabilizing climate. We are bringing in the hope of a new approach to growing food that will help address both problems.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Stability. A company that requires this much R&D takes years of preparation. To take off with a company like this means that all of us co-founders need to find an alternative income source while we work on the company so that our progress is stable.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The weight of the risk is the most challenging part. It is also one of the most exciting parts. When you own your own business, it's exactly what you want it to be, such that it motivates and excites you. Many jobs that would simply pay rent are only motivating via money and maybe a friendly team. To have a job that leaves you feeling a sense of purpose and value in the world is truly unique.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
You have to be patient. A good business usually takes a lot of time, and one of the hardest things is finding that time while still making enough money to get buy. That is for those of us not born into extraordinary wealth.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
We plan on taking this company nationwide in 5 years. Our entire financial modeling and business plan is centered around scalability. We're running this company to have an impact on the land and those that live on it, and we can't make that kind of meaningful impact without scale.
Where can people find you and your business?
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.
