Austin Embraces Innovative Farming with Nava Farms
In the heart of Central Texas, about 15 miles southeast of downtown Austin, there’s a special place where tech meets agriculture—Nava Farms. Once destined to be a corporate campus for multinational software giant Zoho Corp., the 379-acre spread is now nurturing something truly extraordinary: a farm that’s blooming right out of the pandemic.
The Backstory
Back in 2019, Zoho announced its ambitious plans to relocate its U.S. headquarters from California’s Bay Area to Austin. They envisioned a sprawling 100,000-square-foot corporate campus along State Highway 71 East in Del Valle. However, as we all know, the pandemic changed everything. Instead of a corporate office buzz, the allure of a farm began to sprout up organically as a way to reconnect with nature and community.
Growing from the Ground Up
With a strong “let’s get our hands dirty” attitude, Tom Philipps, who oversees operations at Nava Farms, refers to the venture as a labor of love. “We knew full well what we’re getting into. There’s going to be ups and downs, speed bumps, and challenges—and honestly, that’s part of the fun of it,” he states. And the farm has certainly had its share of challenges, like pesky wild hogs munching on their corn or rattlesnakes sneaking around the pasture!
Creating a Patchwork of Nature
The transformation of the land has been impressive. Zoho has retrofitted old ranch houses, erected palapa huts, and set up green spaces complete with patios and paths. So far, the team has planted 3,000 trees of different varieties, including peaches and persimmons, with a goal of hitting 10,000. Not to mention, their garden is flourishing with everything from hibiscus to pumpkins!
There’s a lively atmosphere at the farm, with daily activities ranging from managing cattle to tending to bees and goats. And if you’re lucky, you might spot some farm dogs that have adopted the land as their home sweet home.
Farming with a Purpose
This November, Nava Farms officially kicked off its brand, showcasing its fresh produce and artisanal delights like pickled veggies, jams, and hot sauce every Saturday at their farmers’ market. With four dedicated employees harvesting crops, they not only supply local restaurants but also Zoho’s very own employee cuisine! What’s not to love?
Philipps emphasizes that the goal is to make Nava Farms self-sufficient—not necessarily a cash cow but a space where revenue flows back into sustaining the farm and fostering its future growth. The team is committed to green practices, capturing rainwater for irrigation and utilizing sustainable methods such as solar power.
Connecting with the Community
Beyond just a farming project, Zoho is aiming to make a difference in Austin’s food security dialogue. With climate change and rapid development affecting supply chains, initiatives like Nava Farms are a breath of fresh air. Philipps explains, “The main goal is to be a resource and educational hub for both the software company and the community.” He envisions school trips, workshops, and more, diving into the journey of where our food comes from and how it’s grown.
A Unique Marriage of Tech and Agriculture
You might be wondering, why would a software company like Zoho even bother with a farm? Philipps assures that this is not out of left field for the company. Founded in a rural part of India, Zoho values its connection to nature, framing the farming endeavor as an extension of their ethos. After all, whether it’s cultivating crops or coding software, both require a good deal of experimentation and creativity!
A Bright Future for Nava Farms
As the Austin metro area continues to expand, Philipps hopes that Nava Farms will remain “a green oasis in the middle of it.” The potential is limitless, especially if the company’s dreams come to fruition. The ultimate vision? A bustling team of 40 dedicated to farming while engaging clients, local restaurants, and the community.
Austin may be experiencing rapid growth, but with innovative initiatives like Nava Farms, it’s clear there’s always room for green spaces in our hearts—and in our cities.
