SFAPPT-OWNED COMPANIES
The SFAPPT is a “steward-owner” umbrella of multiple independent sustainability-rooted food companies.
Currently, the SFAPPT owns Organically Grown Company, which transitioned over its ownership in 2018. This allowed liquidity for the founders and employees, while ensuring the ongoing protection of the company mission and ensuring the business stays focused on serving stakeholders. Financing was arranged through a combination of debt and a non-voting preferred stock offering.
The SFAPPT seeks other values-aligned independent businesses that are seeking a long-term ownership solution.
To be a fit for this model, companies need to have:
A strong alignment with the trust purpose and principles of advancing sustainable agriculture
Core products and services directly connected to the impact on sustainable food/agriculture
A credible leadership team and succession plan for the future
Be similar to companies the Trust owns with a track record of pioneering trade leadership and a high degree of vision/mission ambition
A track record of prudent fiscal practices and financial viability
A focus on the future and long-term results vs. short-term alone
Exhibit sustainability through changing conditions & growth capacity
Be capable of creating and implementing their own recapitalization and ownership transfer financing plan, including 3rd-party fundraising as needed
Be of sufficient size to participate in cost-sharing SFAPPT expenses
The capacity and collaborative track record to participate in SFAPPT governance
The Trust is open to exploring other sustainable food businesses to house under its ownership umbrella. Contact the SFAPPT by emailing, trust@organicgrown.com
Organically Grown Company
Organically Grown Company is the largest distributor of organic produce in the Northwest.
Organically Grown Company was founded in 1978 by a group of gardeners, small-scale farmers, hippies and environmental activists with a shared vision to expand the availability and demand for organic produce. By creating a community-lead cooperative and working to develop a fair and just marketplace, the foundation for an organic revolution was laid. As we continue to be a leader in promoting organic agriculture and sustainable food systems, we work diligently to find innovative solutions that support the ongoing success of our stakeholders — from wholesale distribution partners, to growers and customers.
Ladybug Brand Produce
Friend of the Organic Farmer Since Day One
LADYBUG Brand represents the finest organic produce from a select group of family farmers who operate on the leading edge of environmentally responsible agriculture.
Alternative Ownership Advisors
We believe financial ownership and finance matter
As leaders in steward ownership transitions, we help founders and owners of private companies design and implement ownership, governance and investment solutions that align with mission, accelerate impact and protect independence.