UpDIG incubated a soil-based, urban farm and greenhouse in Northwest Denver over the 2016-19 growing seasons, producing more than 8,000 pounds of heirloom tomatoes using conservation agriculture techniques on compost derived from area restaurants. This farm and social enterprise food hub concept increased Denver’s food security and health by providing a consistent supply of nutrient-dense, local and organic fresh food across income levels throughout the Denver Metropolitan area. The project’s primary goal was to scale up to a self-sustaining level (operating income exceeds operating expenses) by the end of the three year project term. Management of the business was successfully transferred to new ownership in 2020, and sustained year-over-year growth continues. Outcomes from the project’s pilot phase are summarized below:
- Operated a pop-up farm stand and grocery in 14 farmers’ market locations around metro Denver, distributing 12,000 pounds of organic farm products.
- Produced 8,000 pounds on 39 varieties of heirloom tomatoes and squash, wholesaling to six Denver farm-to-table restaurant customers.
- Built 8,000 pounds of soil on a compost program with those same farm-to-table restaurants
- Distributed and merchandized Colorado heirloom peaches, pumpkins, and squash to three corner stores in Denver’s Healthy Corner Store Initiative on the USDA Double Up Food Bucks program.
- Certified as a USDA-recognized farm stand accepting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) payments.
- Brand Development
- Business Development
- Competitive Analysis
- Partnerships
- Program Design
- Strategy
- Voice of the Customer
