Oasthouse Ventures is thrilled to announce the groundbreaking of what will be the largest greenhouse complex in the United States. This ambitious project marks a significant milestone in domestic agriculture and food security, following the successful completion of investment requirements. Once operational, this state-of-the-art greenhouse cluster will dramatically enhance the availability of fresh produce while reducing reliance on imported fruits and vegetables.
Addressing America’s Dependence on Imported Produce
Over the past two decades, the United States has increasingly relied on imported fresh produce to meet growing consumer demand. Currently, a significant portion of the fresh fruits and vegetables consumed in the U.S. is sourced from Mexico and Canada. While these imports help bridge the supply gap, they come with drawbacks, including extended transportation times that negatively impact taste, nutritional value, and overall quality.
The new greenhouse cluster, strategically located in Hillsville, Virginia, will play a crucial role in reversing this trend. Hillsville’s proximity to major markets along the Eastern Seaboard reduces transit time by up to four days compared to current import routes. This ensures that American consumers will enjoy fresher, more nutritious produce while reducing the environmental impact associated with long-haul transportation.
A New Benchmark for Agricultural Innovation
The planned greenhouse complex will not only be the largest of its kind in the U.S. but also one of the most technologically advanced. By incorporating cutting-edge agricultural techniques, climate-controlled environments, and sustainable energy solutions, Oasthouse Ventures aims to establish a new benchmark in greenhouse farming. The project will integrate expertise from international leaders in greenhouse technology, including specialists from the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Finland, and the United States.
Advanced automation, optimized irrigation systems, and renewable energy sources will be core components of the facility, ensuring sustainable and efficient food production. The greenhouse will employ precision agriculture methods to maximize yield, reduce waste, and minimize water usage, making it an environmentally responsible solution for the future of American agriculture.
Economic and Employment Benefits for Virginia
The first phase of this large-scale agricultural initiative will span 65 acres and is set to begin production in early 2026. With an estimated investment impact of $1.1 billion, the project will bring significant economic benefits to the region. Beyond boosting local commerce and infrastructure, Phase 1 will create approximately 118 new jobs, with more employment opportunities to follow as the project expands.
Oasthouse Ventures is proud to be a Virginia Values Veterans (V3) company, demonstrating a commitment to recruiting military veterans into the workforce. By prioritizing veteran employment, the company aims to provide rewarding career opportunities for those who have served their country while leveraging their skills and discipline in the agricultural sector. Additionally, the project will support the many servicemen and women stationed in Virginia by supplying them with locally grown, high-quality fresh produce.
Industry and Government Support
The development of this pioneering agricultural project has received strong backing from government officials and industry leaders. Ben Alexander, Project Director at Oasthouse Ventures, expressed his appreciation for the collaborative efforts that have made this initiative possible.
This support highlights the strategic importance of the greenhouse cluster, not just for Virginia, but for the broader U.S. agricultural landscape. The project aligns with national efforts to enhance domestic food production and reduce dependency on foreign imports.
A Vision for the Future of U.S. Agriculture
Andy Allen, Co-Founder of Oasthouse Ventures, emphasized the long-term vision and significance of the project.
Strengthening U.S. Food Security
As America’s largest greenhouse complex takes shape, Oasthouse Ventures is poised to contribute significantly to the nation’s food security. By producing high-quality, locally grown fruits and vegetables, the project will reduce dependence on imports, support local economies, and promote more sustainable agricultural practices.
With Phase 1 already underway and future expansions on the horizon, Oasthouse Ventures is not just building a greenhouse complex—it is laying the foundation for a more resilient and self-sufficient food system in the United States.
