Russian Farmer Platform 'Farmer' Aims to Boost Smallholder Productivity
Russia’s emerging farm-tech ecosystem is giving smallholders new tools to compete, collaborate, and expand. A digital platform created by a young beekeeper in Buryatia shows how technology can bridge long‑standing gaps between rural producers, investors, and consumers.
Development of Smallholder Farms
Today, large Russian agribusinesses grow rapidly thanks to extensive financial resources and professional teams. However, small family-run farms often lack access to the same tools, expertise, and digital infrastructure. To close this gap, Buryat beekeeper Ilya Krasnopeev launched a digital platform designed specifically to support small farms.
Krasnopeev, who produces honey under the brand “Ilyukhina Ferma,” is currently developing his own farm operation “Where the Dawn Begins.” While completing his studies at the Buryat State Agricultural Academy, he created the “Farmer” platform to help rural entrepreneurs grow their businesses, exchange knowledge, attract investors, and streamline procurement and sales.
Connecting Agricultural Producers and Consumers
Visitors to the platform are greeted with the motto: “Return to your roots, feel the taste of real life.” According to Krasnopeev, the goal is to support rural traditions and help local farms flourish.
The platform will allow farmers to attract urban investors interested in agriculture. After harvest or livestock production, investors can receive a direct payout or a fixed share of goods at pre‑agreed prices. Farmers will also gain access to grants, subsidies, and advisory services. Experienced specialists will be able to analyze farm operations and provide tailored recommendations.
Soil diagnostics will help determine land condition and optimal fertilizer programs. Analytics will allow farmers to benchmark themselves against peers through performance ratings built on statistical data.
The platform will also serve as a space for forming partnerships and launching new projects. In addition, it will host a marketplace for purchasing fertilizers, equipment, and other essential goods — enabling bulk orders and reducing supply costs.
Building a Digital Farming Ecosystem
Thirty farmers will test the platform during the pilot phase. The project is supported by the Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Buryatia and Minister of Agriculture Amgalan Darmaev. The platform aims to strengthen agricultural cooperation, connect small farms into digital networks, and establish direct ties with related industries.
Similar tools are emerging across Russia. Rosselkhozbank, for example, created the digital platform “Svoe Rodnoe,” where farmers can set up online storefronts, manage payments, and arrange delivery. Urban consumers can order goods directly from smallholders — or even pre‑pay for future production.
These solutions benefit both sides. Farmers gain financial stability and access to new technologies. Digital AgTech tools stimulate cooperation, attract investment, and support the emergence of new IT startups. Smallholders gain access to experienced mentors and stronger communication channels with agricultural authorities.
Once refined in Buryatia, platforms like “Farmer” may be deployed across additional regions, enhancing food production and strengthening rural economies.
