5N2 Strategic Implementation Project

5N2 is a Scarborough, Ontario non-profit that fights food insecurity by rescuing surplus food and turning it into support for local families. Since starting as a small soup kitchen in 2013, it now delivers over 4,500 free meals and pantry support each week with 24 partner organizations (14 direct beneficiaries) across Scarborough and the GTA. To cut food waste and help fund its programs, 5N2 launched “5N2 Farms,” two shipping-container hydroponic farms that grow pesticide-free leafy greens year-round; sold locally under “Buy Greens that Do Good,” these sales help cover about $12,000 in monthly operating costs. The farms face challenges—uneven crop performance, limited distribution, and brand/marketing gaps—so customer growth is essential. In 2025, three Mitacs BSI interns recommended actions now ready to implement: a 70/30 B2C/B2B sales mix to build community loyalty and secure stable institutional accounts (e.g., the Metro Toronto Zoo), co-branding and potential facility leasing, and a quarterly cost-and-pricing review. A companion marketing plan will boost visibility through local influencers, community events and markets, frequent posts, website improvements, and basic cybersecurity. Three graduate research assistants—two in marketing/sales and one in web, social, and analytics—will carry out this work with an academic supervisor and 5N2’s leadership.

Faculty Supervisor:

Ruben Burga

Student:

Partner:

5N2 Food for All

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

University of Guelph

Program: