Littleleaf Farms
Littleleaf Farms, a small family-owned enterprise, is proud to offer a diverse range of microgreens grown using organic methods. Based in Ontario, they ensure their produce is as natural and healthful as possible by using certified organic and GMO-free seeds, organic certified soil, and ozonated water. Their commitment to the health of consumers and the environment shines through in every aspect of their farming practices.
Littleleaf Farms is dedicated to providing their customers with the highest quality produce tailored to their specific needs. By harvesting and delivering microgreens within 24-48 hours, they ensure a fresh, crisp flavour that packs a nutritious punch.
Larissa and Jon, the co-owners of Littleleaf Farms, have always been fascinated by nature and our place within the natural world. They believe that food fuels the body and that good food enlivens the spirit. Since 2017, they have been growing microgreens for a variety of local restaurants and markets. Larissa, a certified horticultural technician, previously worked for one of the largest microgreens growers in Canada. Their lifelong ambition of working with plants and farming drives their dedication to customer health, environmental stewardship, and top-quality products.
Community and Environmental Commitment
Littleleaf Farms is not just about growing microgreens; it’s about making a positive impact on the community and the environment. They produce microgreens, lettuce, and herbs for a variety of local customers, striving to offer the highest quality products at reasonable prices with superior customer service. By working with local suppliers and customers, they minimize their environmental footprint and operate as efficiently as possible.
Their focus on producing top-quality, highly nutritious produce includes consideration of environmental factors such as water consumption, energy usage, and overall footprint. Making healthy, local, affordable produce available to a diverse range of consumers is a core objective for Littleleaf Farms.
Expanding Horizons with Community Support
Littleleaf Farms’ customers have expressed interest in year-round local lettuce since 2018. To meet this demand, the farm is looking to expand into growing lettuce year-round in a winterized greenhouse. This expansion will support local restaurants, private grocery stores, and foodlands in a wholesale capacity. The project will also create new job opportunities, allowing Littleleaf Farms to hire two full-time and two part-time positions.
A major environmental benefit of this expansion is the 90% reduction in water usage achieved through hydroponic growing methods compared to traditional methods. Additionally, growing fresh, nutritious produce year-round for consumers within a 100km radius will significantly reduce the environmental impact associated with transportation and storage of produce that currently ships from thousands of kilometres away.
To further their mission, Littleleaf Farms seeks a loan to purchase a greenhouse and hydroponic equipment. This investment will allow them to expand their offerings to include lettuce, living basil, and more microgreens, thereby providing fresh, high-quality local produce to their community. This expansion will not only enhance their product range but also bolster their commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
By securing this loan, Littleleaf Farms will be able to scale their operations, meet the growing demand for their produce, and continue to support the health and well-being of their customers. Their vision of a sustainable, community-focused farm will flourish, ensuring that more people have access to nutritious, locally-grown food. Littleleaf Farms exemplifies dedication to quality, sustainability, and community. With continued support, they will expand their impact, nurturing both the land and the people they serve.