Meet the client
Farm Urban is using scientific research to change how we farm our food. Born out of the Life Sciences department at the University of Liverpool, Farm Urban develops and tests the most efficient ways to grow food in urban environments. They manage high-tec, low-cost urban farms across Liverpool that are helping locals to access the healthy produce they deserve.
The Challenge
Farm Urban was applying for a loan of £150K and a grant from First Ark (a social investment fund) to allow them to buy an urban farm. The team found the process confusing and didn’t have any clarity on how they could create an effective application. They were able to access the Reach Fund to bring Adding Value on board, allowing us to get them investment-ready.
How Adding Value Helped
We delivered a full business case for Farm Urban in four weeks. Our team created financial models and carried out financial forecasting, with and without investment, to show how funding would impact the business. We also demonstrated how Farm Urban wanted to grow by providing a succinct financial history, allowing funders to see why they were a secure investment.
Farm Urban was able to secure the funding they needed for the farm. Their team now has a deeper insight into grant funding, and a clear picture of how they can grow in an environmentally responsible way. Adding Value has worked in partnership with Farm Urban ever since, acting as their outsourced finance department and enabling them to focus on developing a socially impactful business. By providing quarterly accounts, tax advice, bookkeeping and payroll, we have helped Farm Urban be aware of their finances and plan for their future.
Working with Adding Value has been transformational for our business. They always knew the right questions to ask, and their friendly, approachable demeanour allowed us to ask questions at any time too.
Dr Paul Myers, Managing Director – Farm Urban
