Of course, innovation extends beyond technology. Joelle Faulkner is founder and CEO of Area One Farms Ltd., which provides financing, private equity and growth capital to the farming community. “Many of these businesses are asset-rick because farms have been in families for generations,” says Hughes. “What she’s doing uniquely to help finance transitions and expansions and how she supported farmers through the pandemic to help keep grocery stores open and food on the table is an example of the innovative spirit of Top 40 honourees.”
Area One Farms operates private equity funds in the Canadian farmland sector. They partner with established farm operators to acquire off-market farmland, enabling family farms to expand and improve their financial returns while incorporating sustainable practices. This interview with CEO and Founder, Joelle Faulkner, has been edited for length and clarity.
