"Come See, Go Do" Practical Permaculture Training Project for Farmers

We are creating an experimental field and training center dedicated to teaching and applying restorative agriculture practices without chemical pesticides or fertilizers.

A Silent Crisis Threatens Armenia’s Countryside

For decades, Armenia’s farmers have faced shrinking yields, deteriorating soil health, and increased exposure to harmful chemicals.Pesticides and chemical farming practices have degraded Armenia’s soil, hurt rural communities, and endangered the health of the people.

!!! The numbers are shocking.

Some pesticides imported into Armenia (HHPs - Highly Hazardous Pesticides) harm the human endocrine system, causing serious health issues.

Most farmers, either unknowingly or intentionally, use unacceptable amounts of chemicals, pesticides, and fertilizers, creating a vicious cycle of environmental contamination.

Unsaved Life: A Personal Story of Loss and Hope

Everything started with my cousin Greta*. She was diagnosed with breast cancer during her pregnancy. Along with her treatments, she needed to eat clean, zero-sugar, organic food. We scoured supermarkets, markets, and even remote rural villages. The outcome was heartbreaking—we couldn’t find clean, organic crops, and whatever little we did find was in limited quantity. We grew what we could at home: microgreens, sprouted legumes, and greens in pots. But it was never enough. Now, Greta is no longer with us, but her brave 18-month-old son, Arthur, remains. This little boy has severe allergies to vegetables and fruits grown with pesticides, chemicals, and unhealthy food additives.

Actions need to be done NOW!!!

Time is running out. Your support can reverse these trends. The IkiHay project will restore soil health, teach sustainable farming, and finally our children will eat clean and organic fruits and vegetables.

IkiHAY: A Nature-Inspired, Purposeful Solution

Inspired by the Japanese concept of Ikigai — finding one's purpose in life — IkiHAY's mission is to heal and restore Armenia's soil using nature's power.

How We’re Doing It

1. Introducing Permaculture

We are establishing a permaculture experimental field-showroom in Nor Yerznka village. This model will introduce sustainable farming methods free from chemicals, including composting, mulching, water-saving practices, and more. Farmers and villagers will receive practical on-site training to restore soil, reduce CO2 emissions, and promote organic farming.

2. Training Center and Greenhouse

Practical workshops will cover healthy lifestyles, environmental care, soil preservation, and the importance of sustainable agriculture, including masterclasses on planting crops and growing flowers.

3. Bridge Between Organic Producers and Consumers

Each farmer transitioning to organic farming will have the opportunity to sell their produce directly to consumers, ensuring circular economy support.

Impact We Aim to Achieve

We are creating a Ripple of Model Farms.

Our "Come, See, Go, Do" model ensures knowledge transfer from trained farmers to their neighbors and future generations, making each participant a local advocate for sustainable agriculture. This will gradually shift the region from chemical-intensive to high-yield, organic farming. By building a network of trained farmers who can educate others, each donation has a magnified impact.

Your support doesn't just help one farmer—it starts a wave of change that reaches entire communities.

Creating a Sustainable Future for Armenia

With your help, we aim to:

• Organize 200 workshops annually on sustainable, chemical-free agriculture.
• Train 500 farmers annually.
• Teach 500 schoolchildren each year about healthy food and organic farming.
• Convert 100 hectares of farmland to organic within 3 years.
• Save 3 tons of CO2 emissions per hectare annually.
• Conserve 10,000 liters of water per hectare each year.
• Create a ripple effect, expanding permaculture across 1,000 hectares by the 5th year through farmer-to-farmer knowledge sharing.

Be Part of the Solution. Donate Now.

Meet the IkiHAY Team

We are a group of passionate individuals committed to reviving Armenia’s soil and empowering its farmers. Our team includes agricultural experts, environmentalists, and community leaders working together to create lasting change.

Your Contribution's Impact on IkiHAY

• 15,000 AMD will provide organic seeds and seedlings for 40 sq m.
• 50,000 AMD will teach permaculture techniques, like composting and water conservation, to 3 farmers.
• 150,000 AMD will fund water-saving technology (drip irrigation) for 250 sq m.
• 250,000 AMD will sponsor a hands-on workshop for 50 schoolchildren on healthy food and lifestyles.
• 500,000 AMD will support the construction of a composting system for sustainable waste management.

Together, we can make a lasting impact on Armenia’s future.

Expanding IkiHAY Across Armenia

In the next phase, we plan to:

• Extend to more villages in Armenia.
• Develop new model farms in underprivileged areas.
• Establish long-term educational programs in schools to teach the next generation about sustainability.

Budget

Our fundraising goal is 32.809.000 AMD.

• This budget ensures the successful implementation of all project phases and the long-term sustainability of our initiative.

FAQ

What is permaculture? Permaculture is a sustainable farming method that mimics natural ecosystems, using techniques like composting, mulching, crop rotation, and water conservation.

How will my donation be used? Your donation will fund land acquisition, infrastructure development, educational programs, community outreach, and operational costs.

What are the environmental benefits of this project? IkiHay reduces CO2 emissions by 3 tons per hectare annually, enhances soil health, improves water management, and promotes biodiversity.

How will this project impact public health? By eliminating harmful chemicals and providing clean, organic food, IkiHay reduces the risk of pesticide-related illnesses and improves overall well-being.

Who will benefit from IkiHay? Local farmers, villagers, schoolchildren, and health-conscious consumers will benefit from sustainable farming practices and access to organic produce.

How do you plan to educate the community? We will host 200 workshops annually for farmers and villagers, conduct 25 school visits annually, and engage in community outreach through social media campaigns, local events, and collaborations with NGOs.

What is the expected economic impact of IkiHay? Training 500 farmers in sustainable practices will increase crop quality and yield, leading to higher incomes and stronger local economies. This initiative will also foster a culture of sustainability, increasing demand for organic produce.

What are the long-term goals of IkiHay? Within three years, we aim to increase organic farming from 0.03% to 1%, setting a model for sustainable agriculture across Armenia.

Can I visit the permaculture farm? Yes, we welcome visitors to see our work in action and participate in our educational programs.

How can I stay updated on the project's progress? We will provide regular updates on our website and social media channels, and via email if you leave us one.

Why is this project important for Armenia? IkiHay addresses the urgent need to transform Armenia's agriculture, reduce reliance on harmful chemicals, improve public health, and create a sustainable, resilient agricultural system for future generations.

Are there any collaborations with other organizations? Yes, we collaborate with NGOs, environmental organizations such as French "Architects of Life" Permaculture practices and consultation companies, and local communities to raise awareness and promote sustainable practices.

How do you monitor and ensure the effectiveness of your practices? We continuously monitor soil health, crop yields, and environmental impact to ensure the effectiveness of our permaculture practices and make necessary adjustments.

How can I support IkiHay? You can support IkiHay by donating, spreading the word, and participating in our community outreach and educational programs.

Become Part of the Change—Donate Now!

Help Us Restore Armenia's Fertile Soil—Donate Now!

Support IkiHay and be part of Armenia's agricultural transformation. Your contribution will help regenerate the soil, promote a healthier lifestyle, and ensure a sustainable future. Donate now and join the eco-revolution!

Let's save the soil that feeds us

Our PHILOSOPHY

IkiHay merges the Japanese concept of "Ikigai," meaning "a reason for being," with "Hay," representing Armenia. IkiHay’s meaning is to find the purpose of life for every Armenian, which is to cleanse our roots from external threats. This mission is twofold: physically restoring our soil and crops by eliminating harmful chemicals, and reconnecting with our cultural heritage to honor and rejuvenate our origins. We create a self-sustaining ecosystem that embodies health, sustainability, and respect for our environment and heritage.

Join us in transforming Armenia for a brighter, greener future

Be Part of Armenia’s Revival

Help us transform Armenia’s land and empower its people. Your support can create lasting change.

Donate Now