VOTE FOR US SATURDAY JANUARY 20th AT THIS LINK!
What’s the Ag Innovation Challenge? The American Farm Bureau Federation has partnered with Farm Credit to spotlight startup businesses with a mission to advance agricultural innovation through the 2024 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. During this competition, small farmers throughout the U.S. have an opportunity to showcase their innovations and ideas in agriculture. Winners earn up to $55,000 in startup funds!
At Secret Garden Bees®, we’re excited to announce that we are an official semi-finalist in this competition and have been awarded $10,000 to help grow our honey production business. In January 2024, all 10 semi-finalists will advance to the next round, where we will compete for an additional $5,000 in the People’s Choice Award (more to come on how you can help!) before heading to the final round of the competition, where participants will compete for three top titles and prizes. VOTE FOR US SATURDAY JANUARY 20th AT THIS LINK!
Over 80% of human food is pollinated by bees, and our farm increases the honeybee population in an area that desperately needs it. As a Disabled Veteran-Owned Business, we also teach veterans how to grow and sustain their own small farming businesses, helping them make a successful transition back to civilian life.
Four years ago, we started our business with just two hives, and today, we distribute our natural, raw honey to over 60 stores throughout the U.S. To continue to grow our operation, support farmers, and help veterans, we need an energy-efficient packing and harvesting facility. Participating in the Ag Innovation Challenge will help us increase our market share and build a location where we can bring in more hives and staff. We’re excited about this next phase of the competition and hope you will support us along the way!