Actress Jennifer Garner co-founded the organic baby food company Once Upon a Farm, which is now valued at $732 million. Garner, who joined the business in 2017 at age 45, credits her age and experience for helping her navigate the startup world without the pressure to prove herself. The company, initially launched in 2015 by Cassandra Curtis and Ari Raz, expanded its product line from baby food to offerings for toddlers and older children, according to fortune.com.
Garner took a break from her acting career in 2015 to pursue entrepreneurship, joining Once Upon a Farm two years after its founding. She described her role as “Farmer Jen” and reflected on how being a mature founder helped her avoid the need to control every aspect of the business. Garner’s Hollywood success, including films like 13 Going on 30 and Dallas Buyers Club, preceded her transition into the food industry, where she has been involved for eight years, fortune.com reported.
The company’s growth reflects a broader trend of organic and health-focused food brands gaining traction in the market. Once Upon a Farm’s expansion into toddler and older kids’ products aligns with consumer demand for clean-label, nutritious options. Garner’s involvement as a celebrity cofounder also highlights how public figures are increasingly leveraging their platforms to build businesses beyond entertainment, a strategy seen in other sectors as well, per fortune.com.
Once Upon a Farm’s valuation at $732 million underscores its success in the competitive organic food space. Jennifer Garner’s experience demonstrates the potential advantages of launching a startup later in life, combining industry knowledge and personal maturity. The company continues to develop its product range, maintaining its position in the organic baby and children’s food market, according to fortune.com.