Roberto Menza (he/him)

Roberto is a first-generation farmer, food systems entrepreneur, advocate, and educator. Born in Mexico, Roberto co-founded Emerald Gardens, a pioneering year-round greenhouse operation in Bennett, CO, and serves as the CEO of East Denver Food Hub, a leading local food supplier in Denver.

Through these ventures, Roberto has innovated food production and distribution models, championing a values-based model that prioritizes sustainability and community impact. His work not only transforms how food is sourced and delivered but also educates the community on innovative, equitable food practices.

Driven by his belief that change is a collective effort, Roberto and his team established the Ag & Food Lab (The Lab)—a nonprofit dedicated to empowering farmers and food businesses. The Lab fosters resilient food ecosystems through collaboration, equity, and capacity building, advancing regenerative food systems that benefit both communities and the environment.

Roberto is passionate about driving systemic change in food and social ecosystems to build a more just and sustainable world. His work intersects policy, regenerative agriculture, food systems, and social justice. He serves as the Board President of the National Young Farmers Coalition and is a Governor-appointed member of the Colorado Agricultural Commission. As a public speaker, Roberto delivers keynotes at organizations and conferences on farming, food systems, and social entrepreneurship.