Every small business has defining moments that help shape its future. For Terrart NYC, one of those milestones came in 2021 when we participated in the QEDC StartUP! Competition and were selected as the Sustainability Category Winner.

The StartUP! Competition, organized by the Queens Economic Development Corporation, supports emerging entrepreneurs through mentorship, business education, and strategic planning. The program brings together founders from diverse industries who are working to build innovative and impactful businesses throughout New York City.

For Terrart NYC, it was an opportunity to refine our vision, strengthen our business model, and connect with a community of fellow entrepreneurs.

Building a Sustainable Business

From the beginning, sustainability has been at the heart of Terrart NYC.

Our business was founded on the belief that people can reconnect with nature through thoughtfully designed ecosystems that are both beautiful and low-maintenance. Terrariums, moss walls, and educational workshops allow us to share that mission while encouraging environmental awareness and appreciation for the natural world.

The QEDC StartUP! program challenged us to think critically about how we could grow while staying true to our values.

Recognition for Innovation and Sustainability

Winning the Sustainability Category was especially meaningful because it recognized the environmental focus behind our work.

Terrart NYC's approach combines:

• Nature-inspired design
• Environmental education
• Sustainable materials
• Hands-on learning experiences
• Low-maintenance ecosystems that encourage long-term appreciation of plants and nature

The award reinforced our belief that sustainability can be both educational and accessible.

Lessons That Continue to Guide Us

One of the greatest benefits of the competition was the mentorship and business training provided throughout the program.

The experience helped us better understand:

• Business planning
• Financial management
• Marketing strategy
• Growth opportunities
• Long-term sustainability

Many of those lessons continue to influence how we operate and grow today.

Looking Back

Since participating in the QEDC StartUP! Competition, Terrart NYC has expanded its offerings to include corporate workshops, DIY Terrarium Kits, moss wall installations, and educational experiences for thousands of participants across New York City and beyond.

The competition helped validate our vision during an important stage of growth and gave us the confidence to continue building a business centered around creativity, sustainability, and community engagement.

We're proud to be part of Queens' vibrant entrepreneurial community and grateful to QEDC for supporting small businesses that are working to make a positive impact.