Jenny Hart is a passionate crofter living and working in the south-west Highlands of Scotland. Since moving to the croft in 2021, Jenny and her family have dedicated themselves to regenerating the land and producing local, sustainable food for their community (Cormonachan Croft). Their journey reflects a commitment not only to agriculture but to preserving a way of life deeply connected to nature and local traditions.
When asked about the origins of her business, Jenny admits that it was “what I’ve always wanted to do”. The opportunity to establish their croft was a fortunate moment that allowed her to follow this lifelong ambition. From the start, the goal was simple yet powerful: to grow and produce food sustainably for themselves and their neighbours, creating a living that is closely tied to the land.
What distinguishes Jenny’s products in the marketplace is their transparency and authenticity. Customers have the unique advantage of knowing exactly where their food comes from. They can visit the croft, meet the animals, and witness first-hand the care and respect given to every aspect of production. This openness has garnered positive feedback, particularly about the quality of the meat and the other products derived from the croft.
Innovation is also a significant part of Jenny’s crofting approach. In 2022, they expanded into beekeeping, despite facing difficult weather conditions that prevented a honey harvest. Rather than letting this setback discourage them, Jenny and her family seized the opportunity to utilise the by-product of beeswax creatively. They developed a small line of beeswax-based cosmetic products, transforming what could have been a loss into a valuable new offering. This kind of resourcefulness is emblematic of the adaptive and sustainable ethos that underpins their business.
Navigating the crofting industry as a female entrepreneur has not been without challenges. Jenny acknowledges that entering a traditionally male-dominated sector meant facing a lack of confidence and difficulty in accessing industry knowledge and networks. Finding reliable sources of information and connecting with supportive groups took time, but these efforts were crucial to building her confidence and advancing the business.
Jenny emphasises that peer support is crucial for growth, especially for women in rural entrepreneurship. “Having a network of other women doing similar things is the richest source of support, enthusiasm, and inspiration”, she says. Financial challenges are also a reality, especially for small innovative projects. Jenny emphasises the difficulty in securing funding for grassroots ideas, which is crucial for transforming visions into tangible outcomes.
Beyond the business side, Jenny cherishes the lifestyle that crofting offers. The daily experience of working outdoors, caring for animals, and breathing fresh Highland air is “enriching for the soul”. Living in a small community naturally fosters daily interactions and connections, creating a network of mutual support among local businesses. Jenny notes that local establishments, such as pubs and bed-and-breakfasts, have taken an interest in and shown support for their work, reinforcing the sense of shared purpose and community.
Jenny Hart’s story is one of dedication, innovation, and community spirit. It offers a hopeful example of how rural women can thrive by blending traditional practices with modern entrepreneurship and mutual support, enriching both their lives and their communities.