ELI - 392 | How We Turned a Passion for Healthy Snacking into a Successful Dry Fruits Brand

Get ready for an inspiring tale of resilience, innovation, and the entrepreneurial spirit as we delve into the remarkable journey of Akash Sharma, the co-founder of Farmley, a thriving brand specializing in premium dry fruits and nuts.
In this exclusive interview, Akash takes us on a fascinating trip down memory lane, recounting his humble beginnings in a small town in Rajasthan. Raised in a family deeply rooted in farming, he developed a close bond with the agricultural world from a young age, where he witnessed the traditional methods of mustard oil production.
Akash's journey took a significant turn when he decided to pursue mechanical engineering at the prestigious IIT Delhi. What's intriguing is the pivotal role a teacher played in shaping his path. This teacher, during his coaching days in Kota, encouraged Akash to opt for IIT Delhi over the popular choice of computer science engineering, citing the city's vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
As you'll discover, Akash's journey was not without its fair share of trials and tribulations. His two years at IIT Delhi were a mix of excitement and challenges, marked by the unwavering support of his parents. He actively participated in the entrepreneurship development cell and worked with startups during his college days, gathering invaluable experiences that would serve him well in the future.
After graduating, Akash chose a different path by joining a rising star in the startup world, Housing.com, which offered him insights into the nuances of launching a business. The experience was invaluable, but it wasn't all smooth sailing. His first entrepreneurial venture, Delivery King, was an ambitious endeavor in the last-mile delivery services for e-commerce companies. While they secured major clients like Snapdeal, Amazon, and Flipkart, profitability remained elusive, leading to its eventual closure. This experience drained Akash's personal savings, even forcing him to seek financial assistance from his parents.
However, Akash's story is a testament to the resilience of an entrepreneur. After his initial setback, he knew that being well-prepared was the key to future success. Armed with the knowledge of the importance of financial stability, he saved up enough to sustain his business for several years even if he earned no revenue. This preparedness allowed him to take risks and pivot as needed, which ultimately led to his current venture, Farmley.
Farmley's journey has been marked by constant evolution. Initially a B2B startup, it transformed into a consumer brand business in 2021. Throughout this journey, Akash emphasized the vital role of mentors. Finding mentors who have succeeded in their respective fields and aligning their interests with the company has been a game-changer for Farmley.
In this interview, Akash Sharma shares his personal formula for entrepreneurial success: the power of mentors, the wisdom found in books, self-introspection, and a strong willingness to adapt and pivot. His story is not only a tale of entrepreneurial triumph but also a compelling lesson on the value of resilience, mentorship, and continuous learning in the ever-changing world of business.