“It is challenging to grow a business without investments and partners, particularly in the field of agriculture,” – Valentina Moscul, Microinvest client

While many individuals opt to relocate abroad in pursuit of a better life, there are those who choose to return to their homeland and build their lives there, alongside their loved ones. One such example is the Moscul family, founders of the “Valentina Moscul” farm, who made the decision to establish an agricultural enterprise in their hometown of Boșcana 16 years ago. Presently, they cultivate organic seedlings and vegetables across more than 2 hectares of greenhouses, which are sold in stores and markets throughout the country.

Like any business, they encountered numerous obstacles, including the need for timely financial resources. To obtain swift and transparent financial support, Valentina Moscul and her husband turned to Microinvest, eventually becoming trusted partners. This year, the entrepreneurs made significant investments in expanding their business by constructing two state-of-the-art greenhouses utilizing cutting-edge technology, enabling year-round seedling cultivation. What is it like to be a farmer in the Republic of Moldova? What are the needs of agricultural entrepreneurs, and how lucrative is this occupation in our country? Discover the answers in this interview.

When and how did you take your first steps in agriculture, and why did you choose this field of business?

Our journey mirrors that of many Moldovans during that time. My husband migrated to Greece, where he worked in greenhouses for a period and became inspired by the idea of initiating an agricultural business back home in our small and beautiful native country while keeping our family united. We started from scratch, purchasing land and constructing the first greenhouses and fences ourselves. It wasn’t easy; achieving success in agriculture demands complete dedication, passion, and diligence. We don’t enjoy lengthy vacations or many holidays. Our work is year-round. Agriculture is akin to a child that requires constant care. After the season ends in December, we clean the greenhouses and commence the cycle of seed planting once again. There is a tremendous amount of work across 2 hectares, but our entire family is involved – my husband and I, our children, and their families – and together, we make it work.

What types of vegetables do you cultivate in the greenhouses? How straightforward and profitable is agriculture in Moldova?

We grow nearly all varieties of vegetables: tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet peppers, cabbage, and eggplant. We initiate the season with seedling cultivation, then shift our focus to growing vegetables. Seedlings require meticulous attention, as a single mistake can result in significant losses. Currently, we cultivate over 16 tomato varieties and 3 cucumber varieties. The tomato cycle commences first, and from August onwards, we concentrate on growing cucumbers. We sell both vegetables and seedlings at the market, where we have established regular customers. Additionally, we have contracts with supermarket chains, supplying vegetables across the country – delicious, aesthetically pleasing, and free from nitrates. If you work diligently and appropriately, there are tangible results, and people appreciate that. Agriculture is more than a mere occupation; it requires passion. It may not suit everyone, but with love, joy, and proper and timely investments, it can be quite profitable.

What do farmers need to develop their businesses? How did your collaboration with Microinvest begin?

Farmers require partners who can offer fast and timely support, enabling them to carry out their work, mitigate losses, and recoup investments. It is nearly impossible to progress without loans, especially in agriculture. If you fail to sow seeds on time or delay critical tasks, you lose an entire year. We have been collaborating with Microinvest for many years and wholeheartedly recommend them to everyone. Initially, when we only had a few greenhouses, few were willing to grant us a loan. Microinvest believed in our vision. They visited us, conducted an analysis, and within 2 days, we received the necessary funds. The process was swift, professional, and hassle-free. Naturally, we were apprehensive with our first loan. I recall how we pooled our resources within two months to repay it as quickly as possible. That experience taught us the significance of investing wisely and seeking out a dependable lender.

What are your development plans? What advice would you give to those who are still hesitant to embark on a business venture in Moldova?

If you work with passion, you can achieve results, even in Moldova. I encourage Moldovans to return home. Successful businesses can be built here. It may be challenging, but it is feasible. Moreover, you will be surrounded by loved ones, close to home, and contribute to the development of your country. We plan to continue modernizing our greenhouses. This year, we invested in constructing two new automated greenhouses for seedling cultivation. Furthermore, we consistently expand the variety of vegetables and seedlings we offer. We derive satisfaction and passion from our work, and that, perhaps, matters the most. Additionally, the government supports us through various projects and subsidies for agricultural enterprises. The most beautiful aspect is that we are confident our children, who have also developed a passion for farming while working alongside us, will carry on our family’s vision. For future investments, we will undoubtedly turn to Microinvest. They have been by our side since the beginning, and we are delighted to grow together.

*Microinvest is the only non-bank credit institution in Moldova which adheres to international customer protection principles. They involve a responsible and transparent lending process, based on a fair, respectful and equitable approach to customer service.