Member Spotlight: Farm Trader

Farm Trader was born out of a problem my wife and I experienced firsthand while running a small farm. We noticed significant inefficiencies in trying to purchase farm goods locally and struggled to connect with nearby resources. This inspired us to create a platform that simplifies and strengthens connections within the agricultural community, making it easier for farmers and consumers to buy, sell, and support local agriculture. — Rick Harrison, CEO

What problem(s) are you currently solving for your customers?

• Access and Visibility: Farmers often struggle to find a centralized platform to market and sell their products. Farm Trader provides a space for them to connect directly with local consumers and other farmers, increasing their visibility and access to buyers.
• Simplifying Transactions: Many farmers lack efficient tools to manage sales, pricing, and communication. Farm Trader streamlines these processes, making it easier for them to transact without relying on intermediaries.
• Supporting Local Agriculture: Consumers often face challenges in sourcing fresh, local goods directly from farms. Our platform bridges this gap, creating an accessible marketplace that fosters stronger community connections.
• Empowering Farmers: Unlike traditional marketplaces, Farm Trader empowers farmers by giving them control over their listings, pricing, and transactions, allowing them to maximize their profits and grow their businesses.

Tell us about some future plans for your organization.

We are focused on becoming a nationally recognized brand that transforms the way communities connect and engage with one another. Our goal is to increase access and awareness of local foods, empowering individuals to support their local farmers while fostering stronger community ties. By building a more resilient food system and robust community network, we aim to drive lasting change in the way people source, sell, and think about local agriculture. As we grow, we plan to expand our platform’s reach, develop new tools to support farmers, and create partnerships that amplify our impact nationwide.

Why is North Carolina a great place to do business?

North Carolina is a fantastic place to do business because it combines a thriving, innovation-driven economy with a strong sense of community and tradition. The state is home to a diverse and rapidly growing population, offering access to a talented workforce and a robust network of support for entrepreneurs. In addition, North Carolina has deep agricultural roots, making it the perfect place for Farm Trader to grow and connect with the local farming community. With world-class universities, vibrant tech hubs, and a collaborative business environment, North Carolina fosters innovation while maintaining the charm and authenticity of its communities. It's a place where businesses like ours can thrive while making a meaningful impact.

How can NC TECH members get involved with your company?

NC TECH members can get involved with Farm Trader by sharing our platform with their favorite local farms and encouraging them to join us. By connecting more farms to the marketplace, we can help support their businesses and strengthen local food networks. Additionally, members can explore partnerships, and collaborations, or even use Farm Trader themselves to find fresh, local produce and goods. Together, we can build a more connected and resilient agricultural community in North Carolina and beyond.

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The Take 5 series features brief 5 question interviews with leaders who are making an impact within their organization and in the community. The interviews are shared in the monthly e-newsletter, blog and through social media.