Urban Fresh - South Africa

We are a Black Youth Owned Private Company that works with Emerging Farmers and Strategic Partners to create sustainable Agricultural Enterprises and Market Linkages. Through the URBAN FARM NETWORK we develop smallholder farmers and increase their participation in the formal market Despite the growing demand for naturally and locally grown produce, Emerging Farmers often struggle when it comes to marketing their goods to large buyers – who require Quantity, Quality and Consistency! The Formal Market also has requirements for labeling, regulatory compliance, refrigeration and logistics. Smallholder farmers often lack the resources and training to meet these requirements. Our incubated Farmers are provided with inputs and ongoing support throughout the growing season. We then provide them with a wide range of post-harvest services including logistics, sales and marketing. Qualifying farmers sign production contracts, providing a guaranteed market for their goods. By aggregating many small producers, we emulate the volume and efficiency of larger producers. By offering a range of post-harvest services, we assist farmers to meet the quality and regulatory requirements of buyers, who may be unaccustomed to working with individual small farms. We are guided by the principles of Social Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Production & Consumption Practices. Our mission is to build successful and holistic business partnerships with, and for, small farmers. Our projects are currently supporting over 20 Beneficiaries, and have created an additional 10 Permanent Jobs in Post- Harvest Services. We are regularly supplying the Johannesburg Fresh Produce Market as well as other clients in Johannesburg.