Mil Agro Provides Tools and Techniques for Farmers

Todd Edwards believes that food production and security in an environmentally safe and sustainable manner are, and will continue to be, the world’s most significant concerns. His belief that farmers need more tools and techniques to achieve this and stay profitable prompted him to create Mil Agro, Inc., seven years ago. “We understand plant physiology and nutrition as well as domestic and foreign agricultural needs and concerns,” he says. “We have developed products to help fill those needs.”

Edwards says the company provides products that reduce the amount of nitrogen-based fertilizers needed for crop production while maintaining yields and quality. Their products also balance the nutritional needs of a crop and reduce overall fertilizer inputs. In addition, 50% of their products are Certified Organic and are used in organic and conventional agriculture. He says a unique aspect of the business is that all key employees are bilingual and have advanced degrees and years of international business experience.

“This provides our customers with confidence that what they are using is good for the environment, their own customers, and their economic well-being,” he says. Edwards notes that the most satisfying part of his business has been to provide a living directly or indirectly to over 20 families.

“There is a genuine camaraderie between employees and our customers,” he says. “We love what we do, and we also really like each other!” He credits the SBDC as a significant factor in helping them get the business started. “They have given us guidance in obtaining grants and other opportunities to expand our business internationally,” he says. “Their team members have a vast amount of business experience and have helped steer us in the right direction. We have had moments, such as missing a payroll, when the situation seemed desperate, and we didn’t know if we could keep going. It took faith, hard work, and patience, but everyone pulled together and helped find a solution.”

Edwards says they consider Mike Young, an SBDC business counselor, a key advisor to their team. “We bounce ideas off him, and he has been invaluable in putting people, institutions and opportunities in our path to help keep our business moving forward,” he says. “His enthusiasm and confidence have kept our hopes alive. I don’t think we would have a business today without his help.” To those starting a business, Edwards advises: “Be ready to work harder than you have ever worked. Associate yourself with others who have started successful businesses and bounce your ideas off them. Buy them lunch or breakfast occasionally. It will be worth it to get sound advice from someone who has been successful!”