SUAVE internationalization

Optifarm’s Internationalization Journey with SUAVE

Optifarm, a forward-thinking platform dedicated to fostering a self-sustainable local food economy, has embarked on a strategically structured internationalization project. This initiative, co-funded by the SUAVE program and the European Union, represents a significant milestone in advancing our capabilities and market reach within urban food logistics. The project aligns with our vision to integrate sustainability, innovation, and operational excellence into the heart of our business.

The internationalization initiative was executed through a three-phased approach: market research, expert mentoring, and international partnership-building. In the initial phase, comprehensive market research identified core themes, including the digitization of local food ecosystems, last-mile delivery solutions, and short food supply chains. These findings were enriched by one-on-one mentoring sessions with different globally recognized experts. These sessions refined our go-to-market strategy and operational framework, ensuring alignment with international best practices.

The final phase was highlighted by an international mission to the USA, spearheaded by our CEO, Gaber Terseglav. This mission focused on establishing strategic partnerships and conducting direct engagements with key stakeholders, including local producers, logistics providers, and technology innovators. Visits to pivotal sites like the Ferry Building Farmers Market and Berkeley Bowl provided valuable insights into market dynamics, operational challenges, and innovative approaches.

The SUAVE-supported project has delivered measurable results, including enhanced market intelligence, operational readiness, and strategic partnerships. We have successfully refined our Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and adjusted our go-to-market strategies to reflect a phased and scalable approach. Additionally, the knowledge gained from this initiative has positioned Optifarm to capitalize on emerging opportunities in urban food logistics, ensuring long-term competitiveness and sustainability.

We extend our sincere gratitude to SUAVE partners for their invaluable support and collaboration throughout this project. Their expertise and resources have been critical in facilitating our internationalization efforts, enabling Optifarm to advance its mission of creating innovative and sustainable solutions for local food economies. Together, we are forging pathways toward a resilient and eco-conscious future in urban agriculture.