VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Governor Northam announced Tuesday that a brand-new, state-of-the-art greenhouse will be established thanks to a multi-million dollar investment from a startup company.
Sunny Farms, LLC will invest $59.6 million to construct a hydroponic greenhouse in Virginia Beach for production, workforce development and research.
Hydroponics is a type of horticulture that involves growing plants without soil, by using mineral nutrient solutions.
The company, located at Taylor Farms, plans to open up 155 new jobs to sustain the greenhouse's workforce needs.
“Securing this impactful new project is a reflection of our Commonwealth’s commitment to supporting innovative companies like Sunny Farms that are pushing boundaries in agricultural development,” said Governor Northam. “Together with One Matters and our higher education institutions, we are laying the foundation for significant long-term economic and workforce opportunities that will help lift up underserved Virginians in Hampton Roads. I commend all partners involved in making this announcement a reality and am confident Sunny Farms will grow and thrive at its home in Virginia Beach.”
Virginia was able to successfully secure the project after competing with other Southern states like Florida, Georgia, North Carlina and South Carolina.