Polished Aquaponics Greenhouse, Cover Material : Plastic Sheet

Commercial Aquaponics Greenhouse

Imagine running a business that uses innovative sustainable growing methods, creates zero waste, and gives back to the community with fresh local food. Commercial aquaponics presents an opportunity to do all three, while also being financially profitable with high-value, year-round produce.

While an enticing opportunity, planning a 

requires a detailed business plan and clear understanding of your goals. Three questions can help clarify the scale, vision and financial goals for your for a commercial aquaponics greenhouse – the first step before detailing a business plan. (Note: In warm climates some aquaponics systems are located outside. Most growers, however, depend on year-round greenhouses for added climate control and protection for their systems.)

• Small-scale commercial (1,000 – 3,000 sq. ft.)

Typical grower: Growers who are new aquaponics, often creating a small starter greenhouse to gain experience, possibly expanding to a larger operation later. Usually self-funded, these greenhouses do not generate significant profits but can feed friends and family, or supplement a small CSA with year-round produce. Jerome Peloquin refers to this scale as the “sustenance” business model, as it typically provides only for the grower and family/community members, but does not generate significant financial returns.