We’ve seen significant change within the organic sector in the last few years and a lot of the growth we’re witnessing has come from the incredible dedication of the many women driving the organic movement. These powerhouse entrepreneurs are paving the way for a more ethical and sustainable future by making certified organic products more widely available to consumers across the globe with ethical and sustainable practices in place. The world needs more of them! 

In 2022, the Canadian organic marketplace was estimated at $10.26 Billion with food and beverage valued at $7.94 Billion. For many consumers, sustainability and ethical business practices are an expectation of brands they love. Consumers worldwide are more educated with a heightened awareness around the environment and the impacts of farming, manufacturing, processing, etc. 

We appreciate how ethically and environmentally conscious our consumer base is, and we truly believe in making a difference with no sacrifices to quality or ethics, even as the company scales production. We always made an effort to source only the highest quality, organic ingredients in all of our products. Being Organic Certified means we are committed to the highest environmental standards. Organic farming means better quality ingredients from the soil up. From farm to fermentation, our intentional practices are designed to benefit people and the planet.  Our team truly believes in embracing a “people first” approach and want consumers to know that they can trust our manufacturing processes and feel good about what they’re eating. 

While being a woman organic entrepreneur comes with its challenges, I found great support within the organic community who shared my vision for a more inclusive and sustainable future. As a young entrepreneur, I found myself in an industry that is very male dominated. There have been times where people assume this is not my company or are surprised to learn that I am the founder. I believe it’s important that we as entrepreneurs and women just starting their entrepreneurial journey set up inclusive structures and take up space and set good examples for people that may or may not feel comfortable in their current position. I strive to be the best example that I can for other people that may be feeling a little bit lost or unsure about themselves or how they can be present in the world.  

I have recruited a team full of strong women, while always working to provide upward mobility and professional development opportunities across departments, opening doors and adding seats to the decision-making table for a diverse, growing team. My goal is that my commitment to advancing women is evident internally at Nuts For Cheese, and externally in our local community.  We always do our best to ‘walk the talk’ when it comes to inclusivity, equity, and commitment to maintaining a culture of respect.    

The need for more women in the organic industry has never been more critical than it is now. Women embody qualities that drive visionary change. We are powerful agents that deliver a diverse set of skills, creativity, and perspective. As women in the organic sector, we must continue paving a path for young, aspiring entrepreneurs and continue creating an environment full of opportunity for future generations and the environment. 

I am so thankful for all the meaningful connections I’ve made with so many inspiring women in this community. It is important to me as a founder with an unwavering commitment to organic principles and empowerment for women & gender diverse individuals that we as an industry continue fostering an inclusive, sustainable environment where women feel supported and inspired.  

About the Author:

Margaret Coons is the Founder & CEO of Nuts For Cheese, the market leader in artisan, organic, plant-based dairy manufacturing. Vegan from an early age, Margaret developed a passion for plant-based cuisine becoming a vegan chef and experimenting with nuts and seeds to create deliciously creamy plant-based cheeses.  

Since launching at a farmer’s market in 2015, Nuts For Cheese™ has enjoyed explosive growth across Canada and the United States with its award-winning artisanal and versatile dairy-free products available at national retailers, including Loblaws, Sobeys, Whole Foods Market, Sprouts Farmers Market, and more.  

Today, Nuts For Cheese™ is the #2 plant-based cheese brand in the Natural channel in the U.S. and is the #1 brand driving growth. Margaret sits on the board of CGLCC (Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce) and LEDC (London Economic Development Corporation). She was awarded the Top 25 Women of Influence Award in 2023 and was an Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award Finalist.