KardiaNuts is a prime example of how technology can be applied to foster sustainable agriculture in areas with challenging conditions. Founded in 2018 by Juan Pablo Muriel, the startup chose Vichada—one of Colombia’s poorest regions—as the starting point of its journey. Here, KardiaNuts has shaped a regenerative agricultural model centered around organic cashew cultivation, aiming to simultaneously address multiple challenges: providing livelihoods for farmers, restoring soil ecosystems, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
KardiaNuts began as a fusion of regenerative agri-tech ideas with a community development approach. The startup focuses not only on the end product—organic cashew nuts—but also invests in a closed-loop value chain, encompassing nurseries, farming models, and local processing facilities. One of its most notable technological innovations is the use of biochar—a type of biomass-derived charcoal—to produce on-site organic fertilizer. Biochar enhances soil fertility, improves water retention, reduces farming costs, and contributes to carbon sequestration, thereby helping to mitigate emissions. In the context of climate change severely impacting tropical regions, this is a highly practical and significant innovation.
Unlike conventional cashew production models that typically prioritize yield and export, KardiaNuts has chosen a path rooted in social and environmental responsibility. The startup has partnered with over 350 smallholder farmers, integrating them into the organic cashew value chain. Through hands-on training programs, farmers are guided to adopt climate-smart agricultural techniques, incorporating native species and shade trees to restore biodiversity. With over 460 hectares under cultivation and approximately 85,000 seedlings produced annually, this model is gradually rehabilitating degraded ecosystems in Vichada.
The growth of KardiaNuts has been fueled not only by its internal efforts but also by its effective integration into the green startup support ecosystem. Participating in the P4G Vietnam Summit 2025 helped the startup expand its partner network and connect with development organizations and international investors. In parallel, collaborations with entities such as the Pakka Foundation, reNature, and Agrosavia have enabled the model to be standardized, scaled up, and equipped with the necessary technical resources for further expansion.
A significant milestone that affirms the quality of KardiaNuts’ technology and sustainable development model is its recognition as the first cashew farm in Colombia to receive both organic and fair trade certifications. This opens the door to international markets that demand high standards in traceability, quality, and social impact—providing the momentum needed to continue expanding the regenerative agriculture ecosystem.
The practical lesson from KardiaNuts demonstrates that an agricultural technology model doesn’t necessarily require sophisticated software or automation. At its core lies the ability to combine systems thinking, ecological innovation, and deep engagement with local communities. Choosing technologies suited to real-world conditions—such as biochar, intercropping systems, and closed-loop value chains—helps maximize investment efficiency while ensuring environmental and social sustainability.
For other founders pursuing green agriculture models, the key takeaway from KardiaNuts is to start with the actual needs of the community, adopt technologies that fit the context rather than chase trends, and most importantly, invest early in building a support ecosystem—including technical partners, market access, and opportunities for international funding. It is precisely this steadfast commitment to sustainable development and a grounded, practical approach to technology that has enabled KardiaNuts to succeed not only in production but also in creating a replicable model for other underserved regions around the world.
