Summary
In Asheville, North Carolina, Andrea and Graham DuVall embarked on a mission to cultivate a resilient local food system that celebrates community, supports local farmers and artisans, and promotes sustainability and connection. From that mission grew Mother Earth Food, with transformative financial backing from Partner Community Capital (PCAP).
Over a decade later, Mother Earth Food has evolved, thanks to the steadfast support of PCAP.
In Asheville, North Carolina, Andrea and Graham DuVall embarked on a mission to cultivate a resilient local food system that celebrates community, supports local farmers and artisans, and promotes sustainability and connection. From that mission grew Mother Earth Food, with transformative financial backing from Partner Community Capital (PCAP).
Over a decade later, Mother Earth Food has evolved, thanks to the steadfast support of PCAP.
In December 2015, PCAP, a community development financial institution, extended a pivotal loan of $230,000 to Mother Earth Food. This injection of capital ignited Mother Earth Food’s evolution toward fostering sustainability, community enrichment, and a thriving local food ecosystem.
Aligned with PCAP’s mission to catalyze environmentally and socially responsible business development, Mother Earth Food emerged as a beacon for accessible farm-to-table experiences in Western North Carolina.
The Duvall’s vision blossomed into a family-owned grocery home delivery service, offering over 1,000 items sourced from more than 300 local farmers and food artisans.
"The commitment to sourcing locally and supporting regional farmers perfectly aligns with our mission," said Erika McGilley, Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer for PCAP. "It is about catalyzing business development and wealth creation in rural, minority, and low-wealth communities."
“The commitment to sourcing locally and supporting regional farmers perfectly aligns with our mission,” said Erika McGilley, Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer for PCAP. “It is about catalyzing business development and wealth creation in rural, minority, and low-wealth communities.”
“After 12 years, we now generate approximately 60 percent of our revenue through partnerships with organizations such as Asheville Buncombe Crisis Christian Ministry, Manna Food Bank, Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project, Big Ivy Community Center and Meals on Wheels, which provide healthy food to low-income families,” said Andrea DuVall. “This evolution underscores the shared commitment of Mother Earth Food and PCAP to promoting community well-being and resilience.”
Mother Earth Food delivered over 250,000 pounds of local and regional produce in 2023, supporting 30 local small farms and 130 local and regional artisans.
Mother Earth Food delivered over 250,000 pounds of local and regional produce in 2023, supporting 30 local small farms and 130 local and regional artisans.
“Additionally, we have a much smaller carbon footprint than the national average,” said Kelli Kuhn, Director of Programs, Marketing, and Sales at Mother Earth Food.
PCAP’s dedication to providing flexible capital and advisory services empowered Mother Earth Food to thrive as a hub for local, organic produce.
“What we are doing has a ripple effect throughout the entire community and region. It is because of PCAP’s support that we can have that substantial impact,” Andrea DuVall said.
Together, Mother Earth Food and PCAP are sowing the seeds of a resilient, locally rooted future—one where dreams take flight, and communities thrive. For more information on PCAP’s loan programs and advisory services, visit partnercapital.org.
