Urban Ag has been growing in popularity in recent years, and since 2012 has seen a surge in for-profit ventures, quite unlike the non-profit models which dominate the sector. The Chicago Department of Housing and Economic Development (DHED) was curious to know whether or not urban ag – in any form: farming, aquaponics, vertical, etc. – can be financially independent or if they will forever be dependent on some form of public support. Quercus studied the issue as part of a team led by SB Friedman Development Advisers, interviewing and documenting the operations of local leaders and examining case studies from successful programs in the US and Canada.
Photo of City Farm in Chicago by Linda N. on Flikr.
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