Growing Home Inc.

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Growing Home Inc. is a United States-based startup founded in 1996, with the slogan "We believe everyone deserves a good job and good food." The company operates in the Agriculture and AgriTech industries, aiming to provide job training and access to organic produce in the Englewood neighborhood of Chicago. Utilizing high-production USDA-certified organic farms, Growing Home offers employment training to individuals facing significant barriers to employment, such as criminal records, homelessness, or low education.

The company's unique employment training program combines fieldwork, classroom instruction, and personalized case management to equip participants with transferable skills for stable jobs in Chicago's food and farming industries. In 2019, 78% of program graduates secured employment, demonstrating the program's effectiveness.

Despite operating on just under an acre of city land, Growing Home cultivates over 30,000 pounds of organic produce annually. The company sells its produce at various markets, including the Green City Market in Lincoln Park, Logan Square Farmer's Market, and IMAN's Fresh Beats and Eats in Englewood. To support community residents in developing healthy habits, produce sold at IMAN and the company's Farm Stand is offered at half its market value, accompanied by farm tours and cooking workshops.

During the pandemic, Growing Home adapted its employment training program to a hybrid virtual format and focused on distributing 90-100% of its food in the Englewood community at no cost to residents. The company's efforts also include online cooking demos, nutrition, and growing classes via zoom, showcasing its adaptability and commitment to community well-being.

Despite the absence of recent investment data, Growing Home Inc. continues to make a meaningful impact, addressing crucial societal issues with its innovative approach to agriculture and employment training.