Hudson Varick Resources, Ltd. – Empowering regenerative food systems and nature-based climate solutions

Hudson Varick

Resources, Ltd.

Empowering regenerative food systems
and nature-based climate solutions

Hudson Varick Resources, Ltd (HVR) is a mission and values driven consultancy focused on the intersection of soil health, climate change and local economic development. We work with grantmakers, impact investors, entrepreneurs and stakeholders to identify regenerative solutions that prioritize both people and the planet. Our expertise lies in regional food systems, regenerative agriculture and nature-based climate solutions. With a wealth of skills, experience, knowledge and relationships at our disposal, Hudson Varick is dedicated to delivering meaningful results to clients and making a positive impact on the world.

HVR works in three main areas:

01. Market Research & Evaluation

HVR specializes in market research and evaluation, utilizing both primary and secondary research methods to assess the viability, opportunities, risks and outcomes of projects and programs for our clients. Our in-depth analysis helps identify gaps and barriers to action and creates a clear path forward.

Our services include landscape analysis, stakeholder analysis, market analysis, best practice reviews, case studies, impact pathways, benchmark and metric development, and programmatic outcome evaluation.

By utilizing a range of proven methodologies and tools, we are able to provide valuable insights and recommendations to support our clients’ goals.

02. Grantmaking & Impact Investment Advisory

HVR has extensive experience in supporting family foundations and impact first investors seeking innovative, system-level solutions in regional food systems, regenerative agriculture and nature-based climate strategies.

Our strategic guidance in grantmaking, development of participatory grantmaking models, governance assessment and redesign, and organizational development helps our clients achieve their goals effectively. We specialize in developing and co-creating innovative funding solutions that magnify impact, enabling our clients to make a lasting difference.

Whether you’re looking to implement new strategies or optimize existing ones, HVR has the expertise to help you achieve meaningful results.

03. Business Development

At HVR, we tailor our approach to the unique needs, resources and desired outcomes of each client. For food and farm entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses, we offer a range of services including opportunity identification, market development, business planning and financial modeling.

By working closely with our clients, we help them identify and leverage new opportunities, develop effective strategies and make informed decisions. Whether you are just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, HVR has the expertise and experience to help you succeed.

About

Karen Hiniker Simons, Principal of Hudson Varick Resources Ltd, is a highly respected consultant with more than 20 years of experience working ardently toward healthy, sustainable local economies. Her work is founded on the belief that people and planet matter, and that profits come when both are well taken care of. Since founding HVR in 2010, she has focused on local economic development thorough regenerative food systems and on addressing climate change through nature-based solutions.

Through Karen’s work at the WellMet Group, a foundation that supports community based innovation by funding emerging nonprofits, Karen developed a deep understanding of how strategic impactful investments can grow local economies, improve people’s lives and support the planet. Under her 15 years of leadership, WellMet provided over $2.3 million in grants to nonprofits.

Prior to founding Hudson Varick Resources Ltd. and leading WellMet Group, Karen spent a decade in the financial services industry, where she oversaw a $4 billion fixed-income investment portfolio. She was responsible for investment analysis and decision making, technical structure of transactions, legal documentation, portfolio monitoring, and restructurings. Karen’s diverse background enables her to bring a unique perspective to her work, and she is committed to making a positive impact through her expertise and experience.

Karen Hiniker Simons, Principal

Karen holds both a Master in Business Administration and a Master in Public Policy from New York University, is a Certified Financial Analyst, a Master Gardener of Connecticut and serves on the Boards of Bedford 2030, GreenWave and Westchester Land Trust.