Who We AreAbout Tenera
Managing DirectorClaire Smith
I grew up on a family farm, which means I learned early on what agriculture really looks like. There are long hours and constant problem-solving. It's a challenge to meet today's needs while also preparing for future opportunities.
Since then, I've worked in the food and agriculture industry. I've built and grown consumer packaged goods brands, developed specialty grain markets through value-added processing, launched new products, supported nonprofits, and helped organizations tackle food safety and operational challenges.
Here's what I've learned: most people in food and agriculture don't need more ideas. They need someone who can take their existing ideas and run with them.
The farmers, processors, nonprofits, and food businesses I work with are often creating something truly innovative. They just lack the time or resources to pursue every opportunity. That's where I come in.
I connect the dots across the supply chain. I identify new revenue opportunities, build partnerships, and keep important projects on track so you can focus on what you do best.
Whether it's finding a market for a specialty crop, developing a new value-added product, coordinating a complex project, or bringing insights and connections from across the industry, my goal is simple: help you make more money with what you already have and build stronger, more resilient systems for the future.
who we areThe honest truth.
We’re not your average consulting firm.
We believe there is more untapped value in your business. You don’t always need to reinvent the business to find what works that might be hiding in plain sight.
We are passionate about building systems and processes for you that work, make your life easier and that stand the test of time.
We believe relationships are infrastructure. They are just as important as grain bins, processing equipment, and capital.
We are deeply committed to sustainable food systems. We KNOW that the work you do matters so much, and it could not be more important. We will fight for the visibility and revenue you need to be sustainable as a business.
We believe profit and purpose can coexist. Farms are businesses, and legacies are worth preserving by embracing new opportunities.
We believe that the current food system in America is evolving and we stay focused on what works and where the market is going instead of relying on past and outdated strategies.