Q: Ekta, you’ve been deeply involved in organic farming and its impact on smallholder farmers in India. What inspired you to start ONganic Foods, and how has your journey been so far?
Ekta Jaju: My journey with ONganic Foods was born out of a deep passion for organic farming and a desire to create a positive impact on the lives of smallholder farmers in India. I’ve always believed that sustainable agriculture is key to not only preserving our environment but also improving the livelihoods of farmers who are often marginalized. The challenges these farmers face are immense, and I wanted to create a platform that could provide them with the support, resources, and market access they need to thrive. Starting ONganic Foods has been an incredibly rewarding experience, allowing me to combine my passion with tangible action that drives change at the grassroots level.
Q: Before ONganic Foods, you co-founded Switch ON and ONergy Solar. How did your experience in sustainable energy and agriculture influence your work with ONganic?
Ekta Jaju: My work with Switch ON and ONergy Solar was foundational in shaping my understanding of sustainability and the importance of empowering communities. Both ventures focused on providing sustainable energy solutions, and this experience gave me valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the sustainable development space. It also highlighted the interconnectedness of energy and agriculture, particularly in rural areas. With ONganic Foods, I’ve been able to apply these learnings to agriculture, focusing on creating sustainable, organic farming practices that benefit both the environment and the farmers. My previous experience has been instrumental in driving ONganic’s mission forward.
Q: You’ve consulted for various national and international organizations, including UN Women and GIZ. How has this experience shaped your approach to entrepreneurship and the development of ONganic Foods?
Ekta Jaju: Consulting for organizations like UN Women and GIZ gave me a broader perspective on global development issues and the role that entrepreneurship can play in addressing them. It allowed me to see the importance of gender equity, sustainability, and community development from a global standpoint, which has been incredibly valuable in shaping ONganic Foods. I’ve learned that true impact comes from understanding the needs of the community and building solutions that are both scalable and sustainable. This experience has helped me design ONganic in a way that not only supports organic farming but also empowers smallholder farmers, particularly women, to take control of their livelihoods.
Q: You’ve received several fellowships, including the UnLtd India fellowship and the CSA Fellowship from the Packard Foundation. How have these opportunities contributed to your growth as an entrepreneur?
Ekta Jaju: The fellowships I’ve received have been pivotal in my journey as an entrepreneur. They’ve provided me with not only financial support but also access to networks, mentorship, and resources that have been crucial in scaling ONganic Foods. For instance, the UnLtd India fellowship was instrumental in helping me refine our business model and build a strong foundation for ONganic. The CSA Fellowship from the Packard Foundation allowed me to deepen my understanding of sustainable agriculture and connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about driving change. These opportunities have been invaluable in my growth, providing me with the tools and confidence to lead ONganic Foods effectively.
Q: You have a diverse educational background, with specializations in Entrepreneurship Development from ISB Hyderabad and direction from FTII Pune. How have these experiences influenced your leadership at ONganic Foods?
Ekta Jaju: My education has played a significant role in shaping my approach to leadership and entrepreneurship. The specialization in Entrepreneurship Development from ISB Hyderabad provided me with a strong foundation in business strategy, innovation, and management, all of which are crucial for leading a growing company like ONganic Foods. On the other hand, my training in direction from FTII Pune has given me a creative perspective, allowing me to approach problem-solving with a unique lens. This blend of business acumen and creative thinking has been incredibly beneficial in leading ONganic, helping me to navigate challenges and seize opportunities in innovative ways.
Q: Looking ahead, what are your plans for ONganic Foods, and how do you envision its impact on organic farming in India?
Ekta Jaju: My vision for ONganic Foods is to continue expanding our reach and impact, empowering more smallholder farmers across India to adopt organic farming practices. We’re focused on creating sustainable supply chains that not only bring organic products to market but also ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their produce. In the coming years, we plan to scale our operations, introduce more innovative farming techniques, and explore new markets for our organic products. Ultimately, I envision ONganic Foods as a catalyst for change in the agriculture sector, promoting sustainability, improving livelihoods, and contributing to a healthier planet.
