What is Green City Growers?
Green City Growers is a trailblazer in the urban agriculture scene, founded back in 2008 with a clear mission: to inspire shared experiences that connect people and teach them how to grow food sustainably. Their vision? A localized food system where food heals, circular economies thrive, and the joy of growing food brings communities closer to the earth and to each other. They don’t just talk the talk—they bring this vision to life through successful gardens that create spaces for connection, knowledge sharing, and a deeper appreciation for sustainable food systems.
Main Benefits of Green City Growers
Here’s a quick snapshot of what makes Green City Growers stand out:
- Established in 2008 with a strong purpose-driven focus
- Certified B Corp with a triple bottom-line mission: people, planet, and profit
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) launched in 2021, giving employees a stake in the company
- Offers Farming as a Service (FaaS) — not just garden setup, but ongoing maintenance to keep gardens thriving
- Specializes in urban farming products and services across commercial real estate, schools, public institutions, senior living, and multi-family residential spaces
- Strong presence in Boston and Somerville, focusing on rooftop farming, backyard farming, and green roofs
- Focus on sustainability, organic practices, and green initiatives
Farming as a Service (FaaS): More Than Just Planting
Green City Growers takes urban farming to the next level with their Farming as a Service model. Instead of just setting up a garden and walking away, they actively maintain it—year after year. This means replicating real agricultural practices to keep gardens safe, abundant, and beautiful. It’s about creating spaces where people can enjoy growing their own food while learning along the way. Whether it’s a rooftop farm or raised beds in a backyard, the goal is to make urban farming accessible and successful for everyone.
Certified B Corp: Business with a Purpose
Being a Certified B Corp isn’t just a badge for Green City Growers—it’s a commitment. This certification reflects their dedication to balancing people, planet, and profit. They believe business can be a force for good, serving communities and society at large. With a B Corp score of 90.1, they’re leading by example in the growing non-perennial crops industry, showing that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand.
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): Sharing Success
In 2021, Green City Growers launched an Employee Stock Ownership Plan, giving their team members a chance to become partial owners of the company. This move not only empowers employees but also aligns everyone’s interests toward the company’s long-term success. It’s a model that fosters commitment, collaboration, and a shared vision for sustainable urban agriculture.
Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger – Promoting local food production and food security through urban farming
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Transforming urban spaces into green, productive areas
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Encouraging sustainable food systems and circular economies
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Supporting green initiatives that reduce carbon footprints
- SDG 15: Life on Land – Enhancing biodiversity and soil health in urban environments
Connecting Communities Through Urban Agriculture
At its core, Green City Growers is about more than just farming—it’s about building community. Their gardens become hubs where people from all walks of life come together to share knowledge, celebrate green initiatives, and enjoy the simple joy of growing their own food. From corporate wellness programs to schools and senior living facilities, their work fosters connections that strengthen neighborhoods and promote a healthier, more sustainable way of living. In cities like Boston and Somerville, they’re not just growing plants—they’re growing a movement.
