Business

Teen Entrepreneur Tackles Food Waste with Innovative Produce Box Model

March 6, 2025 Katio L. No comments yet

The Genesis of an Idea
Building a Network from Scratch
Overcoming Seasonal Challenges
The Importance of Relationship Building
Pivoting the Business Model
Impact and Growth of Odd Bunch
Conclusion

The Genesis of an Idea

Divy Ojha’s journey began with a keen observation of the food waste problem in Canada. Recognizing that a significant amount of produce is discarded due to minor imperfections, he saw an opportunity to address both food waste and food insecurity. According to Statistics Canada, around 8.7 million Canadians were food insecure in 2023. Divy’s solution was to partner with local farmers and distributors to redirect surplus produce to consumers who could benefit from it. This approach not only helped reduce waste but also supported local agriculture and made healthy food options more affordable.

Building a Network from Scratch

Starting a business without existing connections in the agricultural sector is no small feat. Divy embarked on a mission to establish relationships with growers across Ontario. His days began at 6 a.m., driving to farms and greenhouses to understand the landscape and validate his hypothesis that unsellable produce could find a market. Within weeks, Divy had secured enough partnerships to launch his first batch of produce boxes, a testament to his determination and the viability of his concept.

Overcoming Seasonal Challenges

One of the early hurdles Divy encountered was the seasonality of produce. Customers often requested items that were either out of season or unavailable. To address this, Divy expanded his network of suppliers, creating a robust database of farms that could provide the necessary inventory year-round. This strategic move ensured that Odd Bunch could consistently meet customer demand and offer a diverse range of products.

The Importance of Relationship Building

Divy’s approach to building supplier relationships was unconventional yet effective. Instead of immediately pitching his business, he focused on understanding the farmers’ operations, challenges, and histories. By showing genuine interest and purchasing products before discussing partnerships, Divy built trust and rapport. This strategy not only eased the pitching process but also fostered long-lasting relationships. Today, Divy continues to prioritize personal connections, often meeting suppliers over coffee to discuss both business and life.

Pivoting the Business Model

Initially, FoodFund, Divy’s first company, allowed customers to select the produce they wanted. However, this model led to inefficiencies and waste, as unchosen items still went unsold. Recognizing the need for change, Divy and his team rebranded as Odd Bunch and adopted a new approach. Instead of letting customers choose, Odd Bunch curated weekly boxes based on available supply. Although Divy was initially skeptical, customer feedback indicated a preference for this model, which simplified the shopping experience. The pivot proved successful, with 200 sign-ups within two hours of launching the new site.

Impact and Growth of Odd Bunch

The transformation of Odd Bunch marked a significant turning point. The company quickly grew, serving over 50,000 customers across Canada. By effectively addressing food waste and supporting local farmers, Odd Bunch created a sustainable business model that benefited all stakeholders. Farmers were able to sell unsold produce, consumers received affordable fresh produce, and the company contributed to reducing food insecurity.

Conclusion

Divy Ojha’s entrepreneurial journey is a compelling example of how innovative thinking can address pressing societal issues. By transforming rejected produce into a valuable resource, Odd Bunch not only combats food waste but also enhances food accessibility. Divy’s story underscores the importance of adaptability, relationship building, and listening to customer feedback. As Odd Bunch continues to grow, it serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a positive impact on the world.