Chicago, IL

UrbanGrow

A digital marketplace for farmers markets and communities.

Our Mission

Reconnecting people with local food through modern technology.

UG seeks to re-establish our connection to local food using modern technology. More than ever, the promotion of local and organic food is critical to solving food waste. As an application, UG connects vendors to customers using an online presence and centralized marketplace, promoting more visibility and less spoilage at market.

How It Works

Built for market days, local vendors, and fresh produce.

Fresh vegetables arranged at a local market

Pre-order your produce

Secure your produce ahead of time with convenient checkout.

Vendor organizing flowers and plants in a shop

Get to know your vendors

Vendors are verified businesses and can be trusted through verified reviews.

Apples and produce on a rustic market table

Reduce waste

A successful market day is selling all produce vendors bring to market. With a wider audience online and capability for pre-ordering, UG helps vendors sell more.

Customer using a phone to shop online

Promote local

Support your local economy with payments through UG.

History of UG

From a university idea to a Chicago market beta.

In the summer of 2019, the idea for UrbanGrow was developed by founder Elvis Begic during his time at university. As a student of global business, he envisioned a re-introduction of the localization of food through modern technology.

Bringing back local and organic food instead of global complex supply chains would be the only way to solve growing food deserts in urban areas. After a pause during COVID, UG obtained resources to develop a mobile app with help from the University of Illinois Chicago.

Currently, the app called UG will be in beta testing in local farmers markets in Chicago for the summer of 2026.

Where We Are Today

Preparing the beta for local Chicago markets.

UG is currently submitting the beta version to the app store for validation. Once available, UG will begin the in-person beta in local Chicago markets.

UrbanGrow was provided support from the University of Illinois - Information & Decision Sciences.

Meet the Team

The people building UrbanGrow.

Elvis Begic

Elvis Begic

Founder & CEO

Mohammed Mujtaba

Mohammed Mujtaba

Co-Lead Project Engineer

Adnan Khatri

Adnan Khatri

Co-Lead Project Engineer

FAQ

Questions vendors and customers may ask.

What is UrbanGrow?

UrbanGrow is a digital marketplace designed to connect farmers market vendors with local customers.

Where is UrbanGrow launching?

UrbanGrow is focused on local farmers markets in Chicago, Illinois.

When will the app be available?

The UG app is planned for local beta testing in Chicago markets during summer 2026.

How do I contact the team?

Email Support@urbangrowco.com for support or feedback.

Questions?

Feedback and support form

Share feedback, ask about beta access, or contact the UrbanGrow team.