2014Where We Were
FreshMinistries began its aquaponics effort in 2014 after working with the team at the University of the Virgin Islands, pioneers of modern-day aquaponics, and active partners. Their groundbreaking techniques have fueled a major commitment to sustainable food production, sparking years of research and hands-on development to perfect this transformative approach to agriculture.
In 2017, we built our first 6,000 sq. ft. aquaponics facility behind our Weaver Center for Community Outreach in Jacksonville’s Eastside neighborhood. This state-of-the-art facility implemented multiple aquaponics growing techniques and became a vital community resource. Fresh produce grown here supplied the Duval County Public School System through our partnership with Chartwells, local restaurants, and the Sulzbacher Center for the homeless. More than just a production hub, this vibrant space welcomed over 1,000 individuals monthly for tours, field trips, and community programs, sparking excitement and engagement with sustainable farming.
2023Where We Are Now
Driven by a desire to maximize production efficiency and develop solutions for communities in need, we reimagined our model in 2023. The result was a 2,000 sq. ft. standardized facility featuring advanced tower culture and a cutting-edge greenhouse design optimized for environmental control and weather resilience. This new facility replaced the original and now serves as a scalable model for partners. It continues to supply produce to Duval County Public School System through Chartwells and operates as a premier training center for organizations implementing similar systems across the United States.
In 2024, we expanded accessibility with "Model 2," a 1,000 sq. ft. facility offering half the production yield of its larger counterpart. Designed for smaller spaces, this compact and efficient model makes sustainable aquaponics more attainable for communities with limited resources. We have gifted five facilities to serve as an agribusiness hub to help UVI further its ongoing aquaponics education and research, as well as supporting its aquaculture and agriculture programs.
2025+Where We Are Going
Today, FreshMinistries partners with organizations worldwide to build aquaponics systems that transform communities, providing fresh food, economic opportunities, and sustainable solutions. With every step, we’re empowering the future of agriculture, one innovative system at a time.
