A Black-Owned Hydroponic Farm in Atlanta
I was asked, ‘Why is it important to have a Black-owned farm in Atlanta?’ In all honesty, having been deeply engrossed in establishing the work of Produce’d, I hadn’t stopped to consider this question. Reflecting on it more, the significance is profound, and it starts with the essence of owning a Black-owned business.
As a Black entrepreneur, my journey is more than a business endeavor; it’s a symbol of persistence and resilience. Owning a business as a Black individual in Atlanta means carving out a space where our community can see themselves reflected in success and innovation. It’s about creating a legacy that extends beyond economic gain to cultural and social empowerment. Resilience is a trait that has defined Atlanta from even before the iconic Civil Rights Movement back to those who toiled on farms across the South in a very different time. Today, standing in an innovative, hydroponic farm in the same city working alongside my family helps me reflect on what this journey means.
My Roots in Farming
My connection with farming traces back to my childhood experiences in traditional gardening alongside my parents. These early experiences were not just about growing food; they were about cultivating a deep sense of connection with my heritage. I learned the values of hard work, patience, and resilience from my parents and grandparents, who were seasoned farmers. They instilled in me a profound respect for the land
Produce’d Founder Greg Crafter showcases the signature GrowBlock system to a customer.
and the importance of nurturing it.
Transitioning to hydroponic farming with Produce’d was a step forward into the future while holding onto these cherished values. In the heart of Atlanta, a city steeped in civil rights history and Black culture, owning a hydroponic farm is a statement. It’s a declaration that innovation and sustainability in agriculture can and should include Black voices and hands.
Produce’d is envisioned as a community cornerstone. It’s more than just a place to grow and sell produce; it’s a venue for connection, education, and inspiration. Our goal is to become a nexus where community members, especially the youth, can gather to learn about sustainable farming practices (indoors and outdoors), share stories, and foster relationships. We are not just growing plants; we are cultivating a community spirit rooted in shared experiences and knowledge.
Mentorship and Representation
Mentorship is a key component of our mission. By guiding young, aspiring farmers and offering educational opportunities, we aim to sow the seeds
Founder Greg Crafter of Produce’d speaks with science teachers at the recent Georgia Science Teachers Association conference in Columbus, Georgia. Connecting to rising educators and students and empowering them to learn STEAM curriculum through hydroponics is part of the Produce’d mission.
of knowledge and empowerment. This mentorship isn’t just about teaching the techniques of hydroponic farming; it’s about instilling a sense of pride and ownership in our agricultural heritage and its future.
Representation matters profoundly. In the field of agriculture, traditionally dominated by non-Black individuals, seeing a Black-owned hydroponic farm in Atlanta challenges stereotypes and opens doors for others. It sends a powerful message that Black entrepreneurs can lead in technological innovation and sustainable practices, areas that are crucial for the future health of our planet and communities. Our commitment to sustainability through hydroponics also reflects a broader concern for environmental stewardship. It’s about demonstrating how agriculture can be both productive and sustainable, using methods that conserve water and reduce the carbon footprint. In a world facing climate change and environmental degradation, we’re not just practicing agriculture; we’re advocating for a sustainable way of life that will benefit future generations.
Black History and Black Futures
However, this journey is not without its challenges. The path is often strewn with systemic barriers and obstacles. But every step forward, every hurdle overcome, is a victory. It’s a testament to the resilience and excellence of the Black community. Each small success at Produce’d is a beacon of hope, a proof that despite the odds, we can and will thrive.
At the end of the day, owning a Black-owned farm in Atlanta is more than a personal achievement; it’s a symbol of progress, a source of community pride, and a beacon of hope. It stands as a testament to the strength, resilience, and ingenuity of the Black community. It’s a platform for education, mentorship, and inspiration, and it plays a crucial role in shaping a more inclusive, sustainable future in agriculture. Produce’d is not just a farm; it’s a movement, a narrative of Black futures and environmental responsibility that we are proud to write each day.
Photos of Greg working with his kids at the Produce’d farm and on-site at a classroom teaching a new generation of farmers about hydroponics.
