Since 2018, Dave and Vicki Haberkom have grown their business with a focus on quality meat, eggs, and sustainable farming. With support from multiple AAEDC programs, they have expanded their operations and are continuing to grow their impact on the local community.
While living in Tampa, Florida, Dave and Vicki Haberkom started farming because, as Vicki explains: “we simply loved the work – being outside, taking care of animals, and growing food.” They brought that passion to Maryland in 2018 when they moved to Vicki’s family’s farm and decided to create Morris Hill Farm: a place where they would raise high-quality meat and eggs in a way that gives the animals a great life, is good for the environment, and supports the local community. Eight years later, the fast-growing farm business not only sells its products at three farmers markets but also through home delivery and its just-opened farm store.
Challenges Faced
Because they already had access to land, the greatest early challenge for Dave and Vicki was simply reaching consumers with their products and building a consistent customer base. However, knowing how to sustainably grow the business.
How AAEDC Helped
While submitting their products to be included in the Arundel Grown Ag Guide and on the menu at our Arundel Grown dinner each year have helped Dave and Vicki market Morris Hill, they’ve also seized every opportunity to grow the business. In just the past two years, they successfully applied for a matching grant from our ABIG Program to help purchase a delivery van, participated in our Inclusive Ventures Program, and became the first-ever farm to receive a VOLT Fund loan, which they used to significantly expand their operations.
“We’re truly grateful to live in a county that does so much to support and promote local agriculture and farm businesses. From the ABIG grant helping us buy a van that allowed us to expand our delivery operations and market participation, to IVP giving me the knowledge and tools and confidence to keep growing our business, AAEDC has been an invaluable partner.”
Vicki Haberkom
Owner
What’s Next?
With the support of a recent VOLT Fund loan, Vicki and Dave have expanded to more than 60 additional acres and significantly grown their operation, adding over 1,500 chickens and doubling their lambs and positioning them for continued success and long-term growth. Vicki reports that Morris Hill recently expanded its delivery routes into Prince George’s and Calvert County, and adds: “We’re looking forward to watching the former grain fields that we’re leasing become thriving pasture; strengthening our supply chain, workforce, and regular sales; and, hopefully, becoming the immediate answer when someone asks, ‘Where can I get the best meat in Anne Arundel County?’ Plus, of course, staying connected to and through Arundel Ag and AAEDC!”
Discover the Right Financial Path
Not sure where to start? Our team of experts can help identify the programs and incentives that make the most sense for your business.
