Revolutionary Approach to Agriculture Investment
Navigating the Future of Agriculture: Insights from Harvest Returns CEO Chris Rawley
As the host of this insightful podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Chris Rawley, the CEO of Harvest Returns, to delve into his remarkable journey and the innovative strides his company is making in the agriculture sector. Chris's story is one of entrepreneurship, military precision, and a deep-seated passion for agriculture that is reshaping how we think about investing in this vital industry.
From Military Service to Agricultural Innovation
Chris' origin story is as diverse as it is inspiring. Growing up in an entrepreneurial family with roots in real estate development, Chris was no stranger to the world of business. However, it was his military service and subsequent career in commercial real estate, technology, and defense contracting that honed his leadership skills and broadened his perspective on global issues.
During our conversation, Chris shared how his travels to impoverished areas illuminated the central role of farming in local communities. This realization sparked his interest in agriculture and led to the founding of Harvest Returns, a platform designed to facilitate investments in farms, ranches, and related agricultural businesses.
Embracing Regenerative Agriculture and AgTech
Harvest Returns isn't just about investment; it's about sustainable and innovative agricultural practices. Chris highlighted the company's focus on regenerative agriculture and indoor farming, as well as support for early-stage agricultural technology companies. Understanding the dynamic nature of the agriculture industry is crucial, and Chris's approach is a testament to that complexity.
One of the standout examples Chris shared was the success of a company specializing in precision agriculture. Their sensor technology has revolutionized farming practices, particularly in vineyards affected by wildfires, by mitigating the impact of smoke taint on produce. This is just one instance of how Harvest Returns is contributing to smarter, more sustainable agriculture.
Overcoming Challenges and Advocating for Capitalism
Building Harvest Returns was not without its challenges. Chris candidly discussed the difficulties in bridging the gap between conservative farmers and investors, emphasizing the need for constant education and alignment. He also touched on the impact of economic factors like inflation and supply chain disruptions on the industry.
Chris's advocacy for capitalism and free markets shines through in his business activities. He believes in the power of small businesses to drive the economy and the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels innovation and growth.
Cultivating a Culture of Integrity and Leadership
The culture and core values of Harvest Returns are built on integrity, profitability for farmers and investors, and recognizing the significance of agriculture. Chris's personal definition of leadership involves motivating a team to achieve common goals and bringing out the best in people, a philosophy deeply influenced by his military background.
Chris also discussed the company's unique approach to remote and hybrid work models, emphasizing flexibility and work-life balance. Harvest Returns has implemented a paid time off system that fosters teamwork and responsibility, ensuring that employees can take the time they need while supporting one another.
Looking to the future, Chris shared his vision for building a lasting legacy through Harvest Returns. The company is exploring innovative methods like revenue-based loans to bring new forms of capital into the agriculture industry. Beyond financial support, Harvest Returns connects agricultural technology companies with additional sources of
Chris Rawley
CEO
While serving as a career naval officer, Chris Rawley visited dozens of war-torn and poverty stricken countries and began to appreciate the importance of agriculture to every single person on earth. As a professional investor with this new found appreciation, he decided to invest in a farm, but quickly discovered that these types of assets were inaccessible to the average person. The problem drove him to create Harvest Returns in 2016 to democratize investments in agriculture.
Rawley has held corporate management roles in Jones Lang LaSalle, Electronic Data Systems, L-3 Communications, and served as a defense consultant at United States Special Operations Command for six years. He has invested in real estate and income-producing agriculture for over two decades. Rawley is an angel investor in early stage agriculture and food companies, including the Indian agriculture FinTech company Jai Kisan. He serves on the advisory board of the AgTech start-up AgroFides.
Rawley is a retired Navy Reserve Captain. During his 30 year military career, he served in a variety of leadership positions in naval, expeditionary, and joint special operations units afloat and ashore. He deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq, throughout Africa, the Middle East, and Western Pacific. Rawley has a degree from Texas A&M University, earned an MBA at George Washington University, and is a graduate of the U.S. Naval War College. He is the author of Unconventional Warfare 2.0 and an avid water sports enthusiast.