In the face of war-related challenges, Volodymyr Mironenko and his girlfriend, Veronica, made a life-altering decision to relocate from Kharkiv to Ivano-Frankivsk. Their journey in their new surroundings led them to establish a flourishing business dedicated to cultivating microgreens and edible flowers.
Within a mere year, “MicroGreen Prykarpattia” expanded significantly, transitioning from their initial 68.5-square-meter premises to a spacious 350-square-meter facility. While the original farm had the potential to yield up to 5000 boxes of microgreens each month, their new location boasts the remarkable capability to produce a maximum of 50,000 boxes. It’s important to note that this expanded facility is still in the process of construction.
The inception of Mironenko’s business was driven by the inspiration derived from YouTube videos about small businesses, production, sales, and logistics. Redirecting their funds, originally intended for purchasing a flat in Kharkiv, they invested in their maiden venture: microgreens cultivation. A substantial portion of their budget was dedicated to equipping the farm with shelves, which feature advanced lighting and automatic watering systems. These innovations not only optimize productivity by reducing labor requirements but also allow for efficient electricity consumption, with the entire system being managed through a smartphone.
The quest for suitable premises proved to be a formidable challenge, necessitating specific requirements such as ample electricity capacity, proper ventilation, a minimum area of 70 square meters, and tiled flooring.
Regarding competition, Mironenko acknowledges the existence of a community of approximately a thousand microgreens enthusiasts in Ukraine. Despite their initial inexperience, he swiftly evolved into a valuable source of advice and support for fellow growers.
For all farmers, Mironenko emphasizes that the primary challenge lies in sourcing high-quality seeds. He underscores the significance of investing in superior seeds rather than compromising on their quality.
Their initial customer base consisted of chefs from a city-center restaurant, but their products have now found their way onto the shelves of major supermarkets.
Currently, the couple’s primary focus is on the retail sector, as it provides them with the opportunity to establish a solid reputation. Mironenko has ambitious plans for expansion, intending to establish similar farms in proximity to Kyiv and Kharkiv. Despite the inherent uncertainty in the world of business, he maintains a poised and composed demeanor, akin to a Tibetan monk, as he navigates the challenges that come his way.
