Goodr is a purpose-driven company that addresses the dual challenges of food waste and hunger through innovative technology and community engagement. By connecting businesses with surplus food to organizations and individuals in need, Goodr creates a seamless system that ensures quality, accountability, and impact. The company’s platform provides real-time data to track donations, measure environmental benefits, and simplify compliance with regulatory standards. Combining sustainability and social responsibility, Goodr not only diverts significant amounts of food from landfills but also provides nourishing meals to underserved communities. Built on the belief that hunger is not an issue of scarcity but of logistics, Goodr redefines how surplus food can create meaningful change.
SME Business Review reached out to Jasmine Crowe-Houston, founder and CEO of Goodr, for an interview to discuss her journey, the innovative approach behind Goodr, and the company's impact on addressing food waste and hunger. Jasmine shared her insights on the challenges of scaling a mission-driven business, the importance of technology in solving logistical issues, and her vision for a future where no one goes hungry while food waste is minimized. Here’s what Jasmine had to say.
Interview Excerpts
What inspired you to start Goodr?
The idea for Goodr came from seeing two problems that shouldn’t coexist—food waste and hunger. I used to host pop-up dinners for people experiencing homelessness, and it struck me how much good food was being wasted while so many people went hungry. I wanted to build a solution that not only addressed the immediate need but also tackled the inefficiencies in how surplus food is managed. That’s how Goodr was born.
How does Goodr’s technology help in managing surplus food?
Our technology makes it easy for businesses to track, manage, and redistribute their surplus food. It provides real-time data on where the food is going, its impact, and even helps businesses stay compliant with regulations. The system is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing operations, so businesses don’t see it as an extra burden. Ultimately, it’s about creating a transparent and efficient process that benefits everyone involved.
What makes Goodr’s approach different from traditional food recovery methods?
A lot of traditional methods rely heavily on manual processes, which can be time-consuming and inconsistent. We’ve taken a tech-first approach to automate and optimize the process. Our focus isn’t just on collecting food but on ensuring it gets to people who need it most while minimizing waste. Plus, our emphasis on data and accountability gives businesses the confidence that their contributions are making a real impact.
How do you ensure the quality and safety of the food you recover?
Quality and safety are non-negotiable for us. We have strict protocols to make sure the food we recover is safe and meets all regulatory standards. Our team works closely with businesses to educate them about proper handling and storage. By prioritizing quality, we’re not just redistributing food; we’re ensuring people receive meals that are safe and nourishing.
Could you share more about Goodr’s environmental impact?
Absolutely. Food waste in landfills is a major source of methane emissions, which contribute to climate change. By diverting food away from landfills, we’re significantly reducing those emissions. It’s a dual-impact effort—feeding people and protecting the environment. This is why sustainability is such a core part of what we do.
How do you engage with communities to ensure Goodr’s work has a meaningful impact?
Community engagement is central to our work. We partner with local organizations, food banks, and shelters to understand their needs and ensure the food we deliver aligns with those needs. We’re not just dropping off food; we’re building relationships and creating a network of support that strengthens communities.
What role do partnerships play in Goodr’s success?
Partnerships are everything. Whether it’s a restaurant donating surplus food, a corporate partner funding our work, or a non-profit distributing meals, it takes a collective effort to make this happen. We’ve been fortunate to work with some incredible organizations that share our vision for a world without hunger and waste.
How does Goodr balance profitability with its mission-driven approach?
It’s all about aligning impact with sustainability. We operate as a for-profit company, which allows us to scale and innovate, but our mission drives every decision we make. We’ve shown that doing good and doing well can go hand in hand. When businesses see the value of participating in our programs, it becomes a win-win for everyone involved.
What has been one of the biggest challenges Goodr has faced?
Scaling our operations while maintaining our mission has been challenging. As we grow, ensuring the same level of quality, transparency, and community focus takes a lot of effort. But challenges are part of the journey, and they push us to find new ways to improve and innovate.
How do you measure success at Goodr?
Success for us is measured in impact. It’s the number of meals we provide, the pounds of food we save from landfills, and the communities we support. Every number represents lives touched and problems solved, and that’s what drives us.
What message would you share with businesses hesitant about food recovery?
I would say it’s time to rethink how you see waste. Food recovery isn’t just about doing the right thing—it’s also a smart business decision. You’ll see cost savings, improved sustainability metrics, and a chance to make a real impact in your community. And with solutions like Goodr, the process has never been easier. It’s not just an option; it’s an opportunity.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs in the social impact space?
Start with a clear understanding of the problem you’re solving, and let that guide everything you do. Stay grounded in your mission but be open to adapting your methods as you learn and grow. And most importantly, build strong relationships. Change doesn’t happen in isolation—it takes collaboration and a shared commitment to make a difference.
Where do you see Goodr heading in the future?
We’re focused on expanding our reach and deepening our impact. That means scaling to more cities, building new partnerships, and continuing to innovate our technology. At the end of the day, our vision is a world where food waste and hunger are problems of the past, and we’re committed to doing everything we can to make that a reality.
Jasmine Crowe-Houston, Founder & CEO, Goodr
