At GROWCSA, we believe that communities deserve reliable, affordable, year-round access to fresh food. Our mission extends beyond farming – we're cultivating food sovereignty, environmental stewardship, and stronger communities right here in Durham Region.
We operate at the intersection of regenerative farming and modern growing systems, delivering microgreens, vegetables, and hydroponic fodder grown right here in Toronto and Brock. As part of the GROW Protocol, we support decentralized farm data, transparency, and farmer sovereignty.
Every harvest represents our commitment to building resilient local food systems that can withstand climate challenges, support local economies, and provide nutritious food to our community year-round.
From a simple idea about food access to a thriving community of growers and eaters
GROWCSA was born from a simple observation: our community needed better access to fresh, nutritious food year-round. Traditional farming seasons and long supply chains meant that even in agricultural regions like Durham, fresh produce availability was limited and unpredictable.
We started with a question: What if we could grow food consistently, efficiently, and sustainably right here in our community? What if technology and traditional farming wisdom could work together to create something better?
That question led us to explore controlled environment agriculture, hydroponic systems, and the regenerative farming practices that now define our approach.
Our first facility in Brock proved that year-round growing was not only possible but highly efficient. Using 95% less water than traditional farming and producing consistent harvests regardless of weather, we demonstrated the potential of modern growing systems.
The success of our microgreens program led to expansion into hydroponic fodder production, addressing another critical need in our agricultural community: sustainable livestock feed. Our barley fodder systems now support local farmers while reducing water usage and environmental impact.
Today, with three locations across Durham Region and plans for further expansion, we're proud to be part of a growing movement toward food sovereignty and community resilience.
Key milestones in building community food sovereignty
GROWCSA established with first controlled environment facility in Brock. Initial focus on microgreens production and community-supported agriculture model.
Launched our first CSA program with 50 members. Introduced weekly microgreens shares and established pickup locations across Durham Region.
Expanded into hydroponic barley fodder production. Began supplying local livestock farmers with sustainable feed alternatives, reducing water usage by 95%.
Opened second facility in Downsview, expanded CSA to 500+ members, and established Havelock site for future Agri Energy Hub development.
As part of the GROW Protocol network, we're committed to decentralized farm data, transparency in growing practices, and farmer sovereignty. This means our community has full visibility into how their food is grown, from seed to table.
Growing data is shared openly across the network, helping all farmers improve their practices while maintaining individual farm autonomy and privacy.
Every growing method, input, and process is documented and shared with our community. You deserve to know exactly how your food is produced.
Farmers maintain control over their operations while benefiting from shared knowledge and community support. Technology serves farmers, not the other way around.
Measuring success by the health of our community, environment, and food system
Our controlled environment systems have prevented an estimated 50,000 km of food transportation and saved 2.5 million liters of water compared to traditional farming methods.
The principles that guide every decision, every harvest, and every interaction
Open about our growing practices, honest about our challenges, and committed to sharing knowledge that benefits the entire farming community.
Building stronger communities through shared food experiences, local economic support, and collaborative problem-solving.
Farming practices that restore and enhance natural systems, sequester carbon, and leave the land healthier than we found it.
Embracing technology and traditional wisdom to create more efficient, sustainable, and resilient food systems.
Doing what's right for our community, our environment, and our customers, even when no one is watching.
Making fresh, nutritious food available and affordable to everyone in our community, regardless of income or location.
Whether you're looking for fresh food, want to support local agriculture, or are interested in sustainable farming practices, there's a place for you in the GROWCSA community.
Questions about our practices? We're always transparent about how we grow your food.