Zero-to-Entrepreneur Company From The Land Launches ‘Littlest Big Farm,’ Receives $250,000 Grant Award From Catalyst Fund in Partnership With Huerta Del Valle
RIVERSIDE, CA – On October 28, 2024, From The Land, a trailblazing organization focused on sustainable agriculture, celebrated the launch of Littlest Big Farm with a special event that brought together stakeholders, partners, and industry professionals. This cutting-edge solution addresses the urgent need for food security and economic development in urban food deserts, offering a compact, indoor vertical micro-farm that empowers individuals to grow their own food while generating a sustainable income. This milestone was a culmination of years of development, during which From the Land participated in several UC Riverside Office of Technology Partnerships (OTP) programs, including Zero-to-Entrepreneur and the OASIS Pitch Competition. From The Land, together with their partner Huerta del Valle, successfully received a $250,000 grant from the Catalyst Fund during Round 1 of 2024.
The company gained valuable insights and mentorship from UCR experts, which helped propel the development of their innovative agricultural solutions. During the launch event, attendees toured the Littlest Big Farm system, gaining firsthand experience of its potential to revolutionize local food production. The celebration highlighted From The Land’s ongoing commitment to improving food security and creating sustainable economic opportunities for communities in need. “We are incredibly grateful for the support and guidance we’ve received from the UCR Office of Technology Partnerships,” said Dr. Gina Oliver, Co-Founder of From The Land. “Thanks to their mentorship and the insights we’ve gained, we are confident that Littlest Big Farm will make a lasting impact on the future of agriculture.”
Solving Real-World Challenges
Littlest Big Farms address the dual challenge of food insecurity and economic stagnation, particularly in high-density urban areas. By providing a zero grid-tied energy solution, From The Land’s technology allows communities to grow food locally and sustainably while reducing operational costs and environmental impact. These farms are specifically designed to operate without external energy sources, eliminating costly utility bills and making sustainable farming accessible to all.
From The Land’s Littlest Big Farm integrates both modern and ancient agricultural techniques to create a sustainable, circular food production system. Measuring just 10x12 feet, these micro-farms utilize optimized sunlight for heat, light, and power, eliminating the need for grid-tied energy. Each unit can grow the equivalent of 1/8 acre of food, providing fresh, healthy produce to communities and reducing environmental impact by cutting supply chain dependencies. With zero utility costs, users can earn between $10,000 and $20,000 annually from these micro-farms, which are designed to be easy to operate and maintain.
Empowering Communities with Sustainable Solutions
This groundbreaking innovation offers multiple benefits:
- Increased Food Security: Localized food production reduces dependence on long-distance supply chains.
Economic Opportunity: Users can generate $10,000-20,000 in annual profit. - Sustainability: The farms operate without grid-tied energy, reducing environmental impact and energy costs.
- Scalability: From urban neighborhoods to rural areas, Littlest Big Farms are adaptable to various environments.
- Cost Efficiency: Without utility bills, users save between $14,000 and $29,000 annually compared to other indoor farm systems.
- Positive Community Impact: The system offers an alternative to low-paying warehouse jobs, providing meaningful, community-focused employment.
Future Expansion and Opportunities
Looking ahead, From The Land plans to expand its network of micro-farms across neighborhoods, cities, and countries. The company is also exploring opportunities for technological advancements, community collaborations, and sustainable energy partnerships. By scaling its model and fostering collaborations with like-minded organizations, From The Land aims to build a resilient food system that addresses global challenges while creating economic opportunities for all.
Martin Kleckner, Director of UCR’s Small Business Development Center, praised From The Land’s efforts, stating, “From The Land’s Littlest Big Farms represent the future of sustainable agriculture. Their innovative approach is transforming food production in ways that empower communities and create economic growth.” Isabelle Bart, Entrepreneur-in-Residence at UCR, added, “This is a breakthrough model that showcases how local solutions can address global issues. From The Land is truly paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable food system.”
For more information on From The Land’s Littlest Big Farm, visit https://fromtheland.us/.
About UC Riverside’s Office of Technology Partnerships
The Office of Technology Partnerships catalyzes the translation of UCR’s world-class research into products and services that benefit society. UCR EPIC SBDC's mentors provide commercialization assistance to startups and emerging businesses, supporting their growth and development. By collaborating with the private sector, supporting entrepreneurial initiatives, and fostering innovation across the campus, the Office is committed to creating a thriving ecosystem that benefits students, faculty, and the community. Discover more about The Office of Tech Partnerships and the EPIC SBDC program by visiting here.
Contact Information
Aileen Luib
Assistant Director of Special Programs and Outreach
Office of Technology Partnerships, University of California, Riverside
Phone: 951-827-8516
Email: aileenl@ucr.edu