In an inspiring episode of the Vertical Farming Podcast, host Harry Duran welcomed Viktor Kulcsar, the visionary founder of Veles Farming. This blog post captures the essence of their conversation, highlighting Viktor's journey from the playgrounds of Slovakia to the forefront of the vertical farming industry.

A Childhood in Slovakia

Viktor Kulcsar's story begins in Slovakia, affectionately described as the heart of Europe or the "cheap man's Switzerland." Growing up amidst the Soviet-era skyscrapers and rundown playgrounds, Viktor's childhood was typical of Eastern European kids. His journey into academia took him abroad to the Netherlands, where he found his calling away from traditional educational pathways, gravitating towards applied sciences and, eventually, the world of business.

The Birth of Veles Farming

The inception of Veles Farming was rooted in Viktor's competitive spirit and a desire to channel his energy into something meaningful, especially given his hemophilia, which barred him from sports. His early business experiences as a student entrepreneur, including the struggle to be taken seriously and the challenge of competing against more established businesses, laid the foundation for his venture into vertical farming.

Chris, an early mentor, provided Viktor and his team the space to build their first vertical farm prototype, sparking a journey of innovation and discovery. Participation in the Founders Institute further honed their business acumen, emphasizing the value of candid feedback and resilience in the face of entrepreneurial challenges.

The Evolution of Veles Farming

Veles Farming's journey from microgreens to saffron showcases the adaptive and innovative spirit of the company. The pivot to saffron, prompted by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, exemplifies the dynamic approach necessary in the vertical farming industry. Collaboration with Dr. Ardalan, a key figure in saffron production, was a turning point, allowing Veles Farming to refine its techniques and focus on producing high-quality saffron.

Facing Challenges Head-On

Viktor candidly discussed the challenges of entrepreneurship in Slovakia, where the legacy of Soviet-era restrictions on business ownership lingers. Despite these hurdles, his determination to forge a new path in agriculture, combined with a competitive drive, has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of starting and scaling a business in a relatively new industry.

A Vision for the Future

Viktor envisions Veles Farming at the intersection of tradition and innovation. By leveraging Slavic agricultural heritage and cutting-edge vertical farming technologies, he aims to revolutionize the production of high-value crops like saffron. This vision extends beyond profit, aiming to contribute to a more sustainable and efficient agricultural ecosystem.

A Message of Perseverance and Innovation

Viktor's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and the importance of nurturing meaningful connections within the industry. His advice to fellow entrepreneurs in vertical farming emphasizes the significance of resilience, the pursuit of knowledge, and the value of community.

As Veles Farming continues to grow and evolve, Viktor Kulcsar's story is an inspiring reminder of the potential for vertical farming to transform agriculture, driven by individuals who dare to think differently and act boldly.

Connect with Veles Farming

For those intrigued by Viktor's journey and Veles Farming's innovative approach to agriculture, further information can be found on their website and LinkedIn. Viktor's story on the Vertical Farming Podcast offers valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of pioneering in the vertical farming industry.

Viktor Kulcsar's journey from the playgrounds of Slovakia to the forefront of the vertical farming industry encapsulates the essence of innovation, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of a vision. His story, as shared on the Vertical Farming Podcast with Harry Duran, is not just about the growth of Veles Farming but also a testament to the potential of vertical farming to revolutionize the way we think about agriculture and food production. Through challenges, mentorship, and a clear vision for the future, Kulcsar's journey is a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs in the agriculture sector and beyond, illustrating that with perseverance, competitive spirit, and a willingness to adapt, it's possible to make significant contributions to sustainable agriculture and food security. Veles Farming's evolution from microgreens to the pioneering production of saffron is just the beginning of what promises to be an impactful journey towards a more sustainable and efficient future in farming.

Interested in listening to the full episode? 

Check out the Vertical Farming Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and YouTube