Seizing Rural Revitalization Opportunities with Passion and Innovation

In the midst of a fruitful season, agricultural planting faces a daunting challenge: racing against typhoons. Wang Beiqian, general manager of Shanghai Hengjia Ecological Agriculture Co., Ltd., has come to realize the difficulties of being a farmer. Her farm, “Hengjiazhuang,” is located in Beixin Village, Huating Town, Jiading District, in the northern suburbs of Shanghai.

Hengjiazhuang spans over 300 acres, cultivating a diverse range of fruits and vegetables, including passion fruit, grapes, yellow peaches, and cherry tomatoes. The farm also operates cultural tourism projects, generating an annual output value of 10 million yuan. As a representative of the Jiading District People’s Congress, vice president of the Jiading District New Federation, and vice president of the Huating Town Women Entrepreneurs Alliance, Wang Beiqian aims to connect like-minded individuals, seize rural revitalization opportunities, and promote Huating’s charm.

Landing in Huating and Establishing a Project to Help Farmers

Wang Beiqian’s journey began in 2009, when she and her husband built Hengjiazhuang with the idea of creating a self-sufficient world. Initially, the farm had only 30 mu of land, but Wang Beiqian soon realized the need for expansion to maintain operations. With the support of the Jiading District Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee and Huating Town, Hengjiazhuang leased larger, more organized land in four phases, receiving policy support for agricultural greenhouses, seed sources, fertilizers, and more.

In 2020, Wang Beiqian founded the “Hengjia Agricultural Assistance Project,” which cooperates with villager groups and individuals, especially those with financial difficulties. The project offers a rural one-day tour package, where tourists can pick fresh produce, watch villagers cook traditional meals, and enjoy local farm dishes. This initiative has generated an annual revenue of about 30,000 yuan, increasing the income of 14 cooperative villagers by several thousand yuan each year.

Close Connection Makes 1+1 Greater Than 2

In 2017, the Huating Agricultural Tourism Green Alliance was established, providing a platform for Hengjiazhuang to connect with neighboring partners. Through joint events like the Farmers’ Harvest Festival and agricultural sports games, the enterprises have formed deep friendships. Wang Beiqian believes that each alliance member has unique advantages and characteristics, competing in a differentiated manner.

Wang Beiqian has also joined the “Wo Jia Fresh” sales platform for non-profit real estate agricultural products in Jiading District. She has conducted online live broadcast sales and promotion of agricultural products, helping farmers in the surrounding area who struggle with sales. By unifying packaging and expanding online and offline sales channels, Wang Beiqian has facilitated the purchase of 2,000 kilograms of cherry tomatoes from an agricultural cooperative in Shuangtang Village.

Taking on the Pet Economy Opportunity

Wang Beiqian has turned her attention to the pet economy, undertaking pet-themed party activities. In May, Hengjiazhuang cooperated with a third-party pet brand, welcoming 150 dog guests and hundreds of pet owners. This event allowed pet owners to create memories for their “furry kids” while participating in outdoor social activities.

By embracing innovation and seizing rural revitalization opportunities, Wang Beiqian has not only transformed her farm but also contributed to the growth of the local community. Her story serves as an inspiration for those looking to make a positive impact in rural areas.