Small and medium-sized agribusinesses in the United States face a unique and growing set of challenges. As global food demand rises and consumers increasingly prioritize sustainable practices, these rural producers must navigate complex production chains, manage rising operational costs, and adopt environmentally friendly methods to remain competitive. Recognizing the immense pressure these businesses face, agribusiness consultant Vitor Guimaraes Lage has launched CHASING BEANS LLC, a Florida-based consultancy that is set to revolutionize the sector by offering tailored solutions aimed at increasing efficiency, productivity, and sustainability.
Vitor Lage’s new venture couldn’t have come at a better time. The U.S. agribusiness landscape is undergoing significant transformation, with small and medium-sized producers at a crossroads. According to the United Nations, global food production needs to increase by 70% by 2050 to meet the demands of a growing population, placing immense pressure on agricultural systems. At the same time, rising input costs—such as a 30% spike in fertilizer prices in 2021, according to the World Bank—are squeezing already thin margins. Producers are tasked with optimizing their production chains and reducing operational costs while also implementing sustainable practices, which often require hefty upfront investments. CHASING BEANS LLC, under Lage’s leadership, aims to bridge this gap.
With an impressive academic and professional background, Vitor Lage brings a wealth of experience to the table. His Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Mount Olive and a Master’s degree in Strategic Communication and Leadership from the University of West Florida are complemented by certifications such as CPA-20 and the Series 7 License, underscoring his expertise in both financial and agricultural markets. Lage’s decade-long role as General Manager at Fazenda Matinha das Pitas, a farm in Serra do Salitre, Minas Gerais, Brazil, speaks to his practical knowledge. During his tenure, he oversaw significant growth in coffee, cereals, and livestock production, driving operational success and increasing the farm’s overall value.
“In launching CHASING BEANS LLC, I am dedicated to providing customized solutions for the agribusiness sector in the United States. Our mission is to empower small and medium-sized producers, helping them navigate the complexities of modern agribusiness,” says Lage. His consultancy aims to not only optimize production chains but also to integrate sustainability as a core practice, a critical focus for today’s consumers and investors.
In addition to the food demand rising, consumers are now prioritizing sustainable practices. Indeed, sustainability is no longer an optional initiative for agribusinesses—it’s a competitive advantage. The global sustainable agriculture market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.3% between 2021 and 2028. Lage sees this as a major opportunity for small and medium-sized producers to tap into this growing demand for environmentally responsible products. CHASING BEANS LLC offers a suite of services designed to help agribusinesses make that leap. From financial performance assessments to environmental consulting, the firm provides holistic strategies that address both profitability and sustainability.
But the road to sustainability isn’t without its challenges. While sustainable practices like water-efficient irrigation systems and renewable energy can reduce long-term costs, the initial investments can be prohibitive for small producers. Lage’s firm is positioned to help clients navigate this challenge by identifying opportunities to cut operational costs and boost efficiency. For example, one of his clients reduced their input costs by 10% through strategic improvements to their supply chain, demonstrating that small adjustments can lead to significant savings.
CHASING BEANS LLC is also working to help clients remain resilient in the face of increasing environmental pressures. Climate change is creating volatility in crop yields and farming operations, making it crucial for producers to adopt more sustainable and adaptable farming techniques. Lage’s consultancy helps agribusinesses future-proof their operations by advising on sustainable sourcing, green technologies, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) best practices.
“Integrating ESG principles is essential for businesses aiming to stay competitive in today’s market. Our approach is to provide tailored strategies that drive both financial and societal success,” says Lage. This focus on ESG not only meets consumer expectations but also attracts investors. With global sustainable investment exceeding $35 trillion in 2020, representing 36% of all professionally managed assets, companies that embrace these principles are poised for long-term success.
Under Lage’s leadership, CHASING BEANS LLC is well-positioned to make a meaningful impact on the U.S. agribusiness sector. By providing strategic, data-driven insights, and sustainable solutions, the consultancy is empowering small and medium-sized producers to thrive in a rapidly changing market. As the agricultural industry faces mounting global challenges, CHASING BEANS LLC is set to play a pivotal role in driving economic prosperity while promoting sustainability for future generations.
In a world where sustainable practices and operational efficiency are no longer at odds, Vitor Guimaraes Lage is helping agribusinesses prove that you can profit with purpose.