For Travis Holzem, founder of Food Forest Design Minnesota, the journey to sustainable agriculture began in his childhood. “When I was 8, 9, or 10, I was already planting cantaloupe, melon, and pumpkin seeds in my backyard,” he recalls. His early passion for growing food set the foundation for a business that transforms underutilized land into thriving ecosystems while promoting healthier, chemical-free food production.
What Is Food Forest Design Minnesota?
Travis describes his company as a bridge between landowners and sustainable agriculture. “We take unused land and design food forests, creating ecosystems that benefit both the land and the owners,” he explains. With operations extending beyond Minnesota to other states, Food Forest Design offers landowners an opportunity to earn income while promoting sustainability.
From Idea to Reality
Travis’s entrepreneurial journey gained traction when a friend in Florida asked him to start a food forest design and installation business based on permaculture. Because of Travis’s 25 years of experience in web design & development, he built the website for the project while learning the ropes of permaculture along the way. “I still handle my website and social content,” he says. “It’s a lot of work, but soon, I’ll have a dedicated team for that.”
Partnering with Landowners
The process begins with outreach through ads, social media, and a YouTube channel. “After the initial consultation, we design a blueprint based on factors like climate, soil type, and the land’s elevation,” Travis explains. Landowners can choose the types of trees and crops they want, and the design can be implemented in phases. Clients pay for both the design and installation.
Community Engagement
Travis envisions a broader impact through community-focused programs. “We’re planning a membership program where members receive weekly fruit boxes,” he says, emphasizing the importance of local food systems.
Overcoming Challenges
Starting on a low budget posed challenges, but Travis’s background in social media and SEO helped him generate leads without relying heavily on paid ads. “Being active and consistent on social media is key,” he says. “Once you start growing, it gets easier.”
Creating Content and Generating Leads
For those struggling with content creation, Travis offers practical advice. “Hire someone to create a social media calendar and generate ideas,” he suggests. “Don’t be shy about making videos. Start with one video a day, and as you improve, aim for two or three. It’s essential for lead generation.”
Advice to His Younger Self
“If I could go back, I’d tell myself to be careful about the people I choose to work with,” Travis reflects. “Surround yourself with people who share your goals and values. I’m a Marine, and I tend to bond with other Marines. The teamwork and integrity we learn stick with you for life.”
Future Vision
Travis has ambitious plans to expand his business. “I’m launching a new company in two weeks—Food Forest Design Network,” he reveals. “We’ll collaborate with designers and installers across the U.S. I’ll handle sales and marketing while they focus on installations.” The network will function like a franchise, with designers paying a fee to be part of it.
Additionally, Travis has developed a comprehensive training program to guide new designers and installers through every aspect of permaculture. “I have mentors specializing in areas like water management and earthworks, and I reach out to them whenever I hit a speed bump,” he says.
Staying Motivated
Travis stays motivated by combining physical fitness with problem-solving. “Whenever I have a bad day, I head to the gym,” he says. “Lifting weights clears my mind, and I often come up with new ideas during my workouts.”
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For anyone interested in sustainable agriculture, Travis offers a simple solution: “Call me!” he jokes. “The key is to keep learning and stay curious. I’m always happy to help others who want to start in this space—just reach out, and I’d be glad to share guidance.”
Travis Holzem’s story highlights the power of passion, hard work, and community-driven innovation.
Learn more about his sustainable initiatives by visiting foodforestdesignmn.
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