Key Takeaways:
- Edible Garden AG Incorporated (Nasdaq: EDBL, EDBLW) received a 2025 Going PRO Talent Fund Grant from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity – Workforce Development (LEO-WD).
- The grant supports employee training, development, and retention at the Edible Garden Heartland facility in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
- Training will focus on areas such as quality control, facilities management, and production oversight.
- The initiative enhances Edible Garden’s supply chain efficiency, leveraging the company’s proprietary GreenThumb greenhouse agriculture technology.
- The grant will cover on-the-job training for new hires, including roles like Assistant Grower.
Why Did Edible Garden Receive the Going PRO Talent Fund Grant?
Edible Garden AG Incorporated (Profile), a leader in controlled environment agriculture (CEA) and sustainable produce, announced it has been awarded a 2025 Going PRO Talent Fund Grant. The grant, facilitated by Michigan Works!, aims to support workforce development, benefiting both new hires and existing employees at the company’s Heartland facility in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
The Going PRO Talent Fund provides financial resources to employers for short-term, industry-recognized training that meets specific workforce needs. This initiative enables businesses to strengthen their teams and promote employee growth.
How Will Edible Garden Utilize the Grant?
The grant will reimburse Edible Garden for essential training in:
- Quality control
- Facilities management
- Production and inventory oversight
Additionally, the funding will support on-the-job training for new hires in key roles, such as Assistant Grower, creating pathways for professional advancement and operational success.
What Does This Grant Mean for Edible Garden’s Growth Strategy?
CEO Jim Kras emphasized the importance of the grant, stating, “We are pleased to have been awarded a 2025 Going PRO Talent Fund Grant for our Edible Garden Heartland facility in Grand Rapids. This funding will be instrumental in advancing our workforce development efforts by enhancing employee skills, creating pathways for internal growth, and supporting the professional success of our team members.”
Kras added, “By leveraging our proprietary GreenThumb greenhouse technology, we have optimized supply chain management, resulting in higher shipping and fill rates, as well as substantial sales growth. This grant will allow us to further strengthen our team’s expertise and drive operational excellence.”
Edible Garden Ag Recent News:
Edible Garden Ag Reports Q3 2024 Financial Results and Business Updates (2024/11/14)
Edible Garden AG reported strong financial results for Q3 2024, despite a decline in overall revenue. The company focused on optimizing its product lineup to enhance profitability, leading to significant growth in gross profit. The company shifted from lower-margin products to higher-margin offerings, resulting in a $27% improvement in gross profit margin compared to Q3 2023. Edible Garden also expanded its partnerships with Walmart, including the launch of Hydro Basil and Vitamin Whey protein powders. The company also reported growth in Pulp Flavors gourmet sauces and introduced its Kick Sports Nutrition line. The company reported a $2.6 million revenue decrease from $3.3 million in Q3 2023.
Expands Production Capacity at Michigan Facility (2024/10/31)
Edible Garden AG has completed an additional production line at its Heartland facility in Grand Rapids, Michigan, aiming to enhance production capacity and processing capabilities. The company is transitioning from floral operations to fresh produce, a higher-margin focus, as part of a broader goal of optimizing facility operations and improving efficiency. The facility also incorporates the GreenThumb greenhouse management system and high-speed packing lines to maintain quality standards and ensure consistent product availability, supporting Edible Garden’s goal of meeting the growing demand for sustainably produced, locally grown food.
USDA Grants to Offset Organic Certification Costs (2024/10/19)
Edible Garden AG has received grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Organic Certification Program to support its commitment to organic and sustainable production. The grants will help cover costs for organic certification at Edible Garden’s facilities in New Jersey and Michigan. The funding aligns with Edible Garden’s Zero-Waste Inspired® mission, promoting sustainability and waste reduction. The grants will also help the company explore new R&D opportunities, collaborate with the USDA, and contribute positively to the communities it serves.
Edible Garden Expands Partnership with Walmart (2024/10/09)
Edible Garden AG has expanded its partnership with Walmart, introducing sustainably grown Hydro Basil to select Walmart Distribution Centers. The new product is supported by a custom-designed Basil Station display, ensuring it fits seamlessly into Walmart’s planograms. Edible Garden is also supporting Walmart’s Project Gigaton, a sustainability initiative aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The partnership aims to enhance the customer experience with fresh, sustainable produce.
Expands USDA Organic Herb Product Line (2024/09/13)
Edible Garden has expanded its distribution to Green’s Natural Foods and The Extra Supermarkets in New York and New Jersey, introducing its USDA Organic herb product line. The partnership aligns with Green’s Natural Foods’ environmental sustainability mission and will provide customers with access to USDA Organic herbs. The Extra Supermarkets, known for offering prepared meals, salads, and catering, will also enhance their product offerings by introducing additional USDA Organic herbs. This expansion supports Edible Garden’s growing presence in the Northeast region.
Partners With University of Rhode Island (2024/08/23)
Edible Garden AG Incorporated (Nasdaq: EDBL, EDBLW), a leader in controlled environment agriculture (CEA) and sustainable produce, has announced a new partnership with the University of Rhode Island. This collaboration is part of a graduate research project aimed at advancing sustainability in the CEA greenhouse sector. Researchers from the university will have access to Edible Garden’s production facility to evaluate and benchmark the company’s current sustainability initiatives.
Edible Garden Reports Q2 Financial Results (2024/08/15)
Edible Garden AG Incorporated (Nasdaq: EDBL) reported a 157% increase in gross profit for the second quarter of 2024 and a 36.7% gross margin. The company also expanded its distribution network and introduced new products. However, it reported a net loss of $1.9 million for the quarter.
Read more here.
Edible Garden Expands Retail Presence with Seasons Kosher and Lincoln Market (2024/07/30)
Edible Garden Expands Product Availability to All Brooklyn Fare NYC Locations (2024/06/04)
Edible Garden AG Incorporated (“Edible Garden” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: EDBL, EDBLW), a leader in controlled environment agriculture, has announced that its products are now available at all Brooklyn Fare locations in New York City, including the newly introduced Pulp sustainable gourmet sauces and chili-based products. This expansion into Brooklyn Fare stores marks a significant step in enhancing its market presence. CEO Jim Kras expressed his enthusiasm for the new partnership, citing Brooklyn Fare’s reputation for offering products that cater to sophisticated flavor profiles. This collaboration aligns with Edible Garden’s commitment to sustainability and quality, providing consumers with locally grown, organic options.
On the 31st of May, Edible Garden AG Incorporated has achieved high scores in the PrimusGFS audit, ensuring that its production, packing, and distribution processes meet the rigorous standards of the Global Food Safety Initiative. The company’s leadership in food safety is highlighted by its commitment to delivering the highest quality products and its ongoing collaborative research study with Auburn University’s Department of Horticulture on food safety issues related to fresh produce contamination in the CEA agtech sector.
Edible Garden Completes Phase 2 of Packhouse Buildout at Belvidere Greenhouse Facility (2024/05/27)
Edible Garden AG Incorporated has completed the second phase of the packhouse buildout at its greenhouse facility in Belvidere, New Jersey. This phase includes new processing and cross-docking facilities, and the integration of advanced technologies such as the GreenThumb system. The final phase will add integrated refrigeration, warehousing, and corporate offices to further enhance the facility’s operational capabilities.
Reports Revenue Growth & Strategic Expansion for Q1 2024 (2024/05/16)
Edible Garden AG Incorporated (Nasdaq: EDBL) reported a 27.6% increase in revenue for the first quarter of 2024, reaching $3.1 million. The company’s growth was driven by increased demand for its products and strategic expansions. Operational highlights include vertical integration, new partnerships, product expansion, and strategic collaborations. While the net loss for the quarter was $4.0 million, the company aims to reduce expenses and improve efficiency.
Read more here.
Partners with Hermann Pickle Company to Innovate in Fermented Foods Market (2024/05/08)
Edible Garden AG Incorporated has announced a product development agreement with Hermann Pickle Company LLC. Together, they aim to explore commercial opportunities in the production, marketing, and distribution of fermented plant-based products. The partnership will focus on expanding their product offerings into new areas such as fermented sauces, pickles, and sauerkraut. This collaboration is in response to the rising consumer interest in healthier and sustainable eating options, particularly those that support gut health and overall well-being. The global pickle market, valued at $12.7 billion in 2022, is expected to grow to $22.36 billion by 2032, driven by increasing consumer preferences for fermented and health-supporting foods.
Launches “Garden Starters” Program Across Midwest Retail Locations (2024/04/30)
Edible Garden AG has launched its “Garden Starters” product line, offering potted herbs and basil bowls for home gardening. The products are now available at Meijer stores across the Midwest. The new line is part of the company’s strategy to provide customers with sustainable options for fresh herbs. Edible Garden handles the entire process of production, packaging, and distribution from its Grand Rapids facility. The company plans to expand the product line to other retail partners across the US.
Regains NASDAQ Compliance, Eyes Future Growth (2024/04/23)
Edible Garden AG (Nasdaq: EDBL, EDBLW) is now compliant with NASDAQ’s minimum bid price requirement, ensuring its continued presence on the NASDAQ stock exchange. CEO Jim Kras expressed satisfaction with the company’s progress and emphasized the strategic significance of the NASDAQ listing. Edible Garden is optimistic about future growth through expanding retail network, diverse product line, and strict cost management.
Reports Revenue Growth in Q1; Expands Herb Production (2024/04/18)
Edible Garden AG has reported impressive preliminary results for Q1 with a 40% increase in produce revenues and a 200% increase in cut herb revenues YoY. The growth in herb production is due to recent investments in infrastructure and equipment. The CEO expressed optimism about the company’s growth trajectory and strong demand for its products from leading retailers.
Expands Distribution with UNFI for New Sustainable “Pulp” Product Line (2024/04/12)
Edible Garden AG has announced a significant expansion of its distribution network with United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI) now carrying Edible Garden’s newly launched line of Pulp sustainable gourmet sauces and chili-based products. UNFI operates across more than 30,000 locations, ensuring that Edible Garden’s products are extensively available. The Pulp line is designed to transform “Bland to Bold,” a concept that has resonated well with consumers, enhancing Edible Garden’s standing as ‘The Flavor Maker.’
Expands into Spring Ornamentals (2024/04/10)
Edible Garden AG has diversified its product lineup, initiating the shipment of spring ornamentals from its Heartland facility in Michigan. The new range includes hanging baskets and accent greens, meeting the expected surge in demand during the Mother’s Day season. The expansion into the ornamental and floral segment is backed by Edible Garden’s adoption of innovative growing methods and technologies, enhancing supply chain efficiency. The move is expected to positively impact the company’s overall margins, offering higher margins compared to other offerings.
Moves to Strengthen Its Market Position Through Vertical Integration (2024/04/04)
Edible Garden AG is moving towards vertical integration by bringing the production of its potted herbs in-house at its Heartland facility in Michigan. This move is expected to improve margins and production processes while reducing costs. The company has adopted advanced technologies like the GreenThumb greenhouse management system and installed high-speed packing lines to increase efficiency and capacity. Edible Garden aims to expand production capabilities in the region and maximize operating efficiency.
Reverse Stock Split (2024/04/03)
Edible Garden AG Incorporated (Nasdaq: EDBL, EDBLW) has announced a planned reverse stock split of its common stock at a ratio of 1-for-20, to align with Nasdaq’s minimum bid price requirements. The split will take effect on April 5, 2024, and was approved by stockholders in November 2023. The CEO, Jim Kras, believes the split will enhance the marketability of the company’s shares.
Reports Revenue Growth in 2023 Financial Results (2024/04/02)
Edible Garden AG Incorporated reported substantial growth and strategic advancements for the three-month and full-year periods ending December 31, 2023. The company’s revenue increased significantly, and partnerships with Tops Friendly Markets and Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace have notably enhanced its footprint in the Northeastern U.S. Edible Garden’s sustainable practices, technological investments, and commitment to innovation have also contributed to its Zero-Waste Inspired® mission. Despite facing increased costs, the company improved its gross profit and operating margin significantly.
Showcasing Pulp Sauces at EXPO WEST 2024 (2024/03/06)
Edible Garden AG Inc. will be showcasing their sustainable gourmet sauces and chili-based products at the National Products EXPO WEST 2024. The Pulp line of products features a selection of hot sauces, salsas, and oils crafted from USDA Organic fermented ingredients. They plan to extend the Pulp product line’s availability across its distribution network of over 5,000 retail locations to capitalize on the global sauces and condiments market’s growth. Attendees will have the chance to sample the Pulp product line, discover Edible Garden’s innovative ‘Squeezables’ line of squeezable herbs, and interact with Pulpy, the Pulp mascot.
Edible Garden Appoints Chanida Curnutt As Senior VP of Business Development & Compliance (2024/03/06)
Edible Garden AG Incorporated has appointed Chanida Curnutt as Senior Vice President of Business Development and Compliance, leveraging her over 13 years of expertise in global business strategies, international trade, and regulatory compliance to drive the company’s growth, international expansion, and enhance its commitment to organic and sustainable produce. Curnutt’s significant experience, including roles at Oventure Investments Group and Baker McKenzie, along with her education in law and taxation, positions her as a strategic asset for Edible Garden’s future development in the controlled environment agriculture sector.
Receives Funding from Michigan’s Going PRO Talent Fund (2023/02/23)
Edible Garden AG Incorporated (Company Profile) received a grant to cover the training and development costs of its workforce. The funding will be used to improve operational efficiency, particularly in supply chain management and logistics. The company’s proprietary greenhouse agriculture technology is expected to improve shipping and fill rates, leading to sales growth. This initiative promotes industry-specific growth and contributes to economic progress in the region.
Secures 3-Year Agreements with Major U.S. Food Retailer (2024/02/13)
Edible Garden AG Incorporated has entered into a significant three-year partnership with a leading U.S. food retailer to expand its product range, including potted and fresh-cut herbs, basil, and wheatgrass, alongside introducing innovative retail displays designed to enhance brand visibility and customer experience. This collaboration is expected to generate $18 to $20 million in revenue for Edible Garden. It is a crucial step in its mission to provide locally grown, organic, and sustainable produce while emphasizing the company’s commitment to sustainability and strengthening its retail presence.
Edible Receives Patent for Self-Watering Display (2024/02/08)
Edible Garden AG has been granted a U.S. patent for its innovative “Plant Display Apparatus,” a self-watering display technology that extends plant shelf life, enhances freshness, and minimizes spoilage, aligning with its Zero-Waste Inspired® mission. Following successful implementation at Meijer stores, the company plans to broaden this technology’s use across its network, marking a significant advancement in sustainable agriculture practices and controlled environment agriculture. This patent, alongside the Green Thumb Greenhouse Agriculture System, underscores Edible Garden’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and improving the retail experience through technologies that ensure product longevity and appeal, setting new industry standards for efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Pulp Sauces Hits Woodman’s Market (2024/02/07)
Edible Garden’s expansion into Woodman’s Markets with its Pulp line of sustainable gourmet USDA Organic fermented sauces marks a significant step forward in the company’s growth and commitment to sustainability and organic production. The introduction of the Pulp sauces across all nineteen Woodman’s Markets locations in Wisconsin and Illinois has been met with enthusiastic customer feedback, emphasizing the products’ ability to enhance meals with “Bland to Bold” flavors. This strategic partnership with Woodman’s Markets leverages their large retail spaces and high traffic volumes, improving product visibility and accessibility. Edible Garden’s focus on using controlled environment agriculture for producing these sauces aligns with a rising consumer preference for environmentally responsible and organic products. With positive initial responses and a growing market demand for sustainable options, Edible Garden is optimistic about the future success and acceptance of its Pulp sauce line, reinforcing its position in the competitive food industry landscape.
Updates On Project Gigaton (2024/02/01)
Edible Garden AG Incorporated significantly contributes to Walmart’s Project Gigaton with aims to cut 1 billion metric tons of emissions by 2030, achieving substantial sustainability milestones in 2023 such as recycling 34 metric tons of materials, conserving 850 barrels of oil, avoiding 77 tons of food waste, and reducing CO2 emissions by 115,600 metric tons. Through innovative strategies like patented self-watering displays, the launch of GreenThumb 2.0 for enhanced greenhouse efficiency, and partnerships with academic and research institutions, Edible Garden advances its commitment to environmental stewardship and the exploration of sustainable food industry practices.
New Patent on Edible’s GreenThumb (2024/01/24)
Edible Garden AG Inc. has received a U.S. patent for its GreenThumb Greenhouse Agriculture System. The patented system uses sensors and a proprietary learning engine to optimize greenhouse farming processes, contributing to increased shipping and fill rates and significant sales growth. CEO Jim Kras emphasizes the patent’s role in reinforcing the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. The awarding of this patent is the third for the GreenThumb system, underlining Edible Garden’s commitment to continual innovation in sustainable agriculture.
Edible Garden Receives Michigan OSHA Grant (2024/01/19)
Sales Growth During the Holiday Season (2024/01/17)
Pulp Hits Target Stores in the Southeast (2024/01/12)
Partnering with Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace (2024/01/09)
Edible Garden’s E-Commerce Site Launch (2024/01/05)
Edible Garden AG has launched its Pulp Flavors e-commerce site, a significant move into online retail, offering a four-pack of gourmet fermented sauces with a promotional Pulp cooler bag. This strategic expansion aligns with the company’s goals to enhance brand presence and open new revenue streams, emphasizing sustainability and organic practices. The use of Zero-Waste Inspired® farming and GreenThumb 2.0 software underlines their commitment to innovative and environmentally friendly agriculture. CEO Jim Kras highlights this launch as a key step in making their sustainable products accessible nationwide and broadening their customer base.
Image provided by Edible Garden