Amanda Freund, a third-generation dairy farmer from Connecticut, has gained national attention for her unique product, CowPots. These biodegradable plant pots are crafted from composted cow manure, showcasing the farm's commitment to sustainability and innovative waste management. Appearing on the TV show Shark Tank, Freund successfully pitched her family’s eco-friendly invention, drawing interest from both investors and environmentally-conscious consumers alike. The process involves utilizing a methane digester to separate solids from liquids, producing nutrient-rich fertilizer and creating CowPots that decompose naturally within one growing season.

Amanda Freund’s journey began with her father’s initiative to address the challenge of managing large quantities of cow manure produced daily by their herd of 300 Holsteins. In the late 1990s, the family installed a methane digester, which not only facilitated the separation of solid and liquid components but also generated biogas used to heat water for maintaining optimal digester temperatures and powering the farmhouse. This technological advancement enabled the creation of CowPots, turning what was once a waste product into a valuable resource. By running the manure through the digester, the resulting material is odorless and suitable for crafting biodegradable planting containers.

The idea for CowPots emerged during a community meeting focused on manure management solutions. Inspired by this discussion, Freund's father embarked on a multi-year research and development phase, experimenting with various methods to transform cow manure into functional products. This endeavor included collaborations with local engineers and participation in brainstorming sessions involving elected officials and agricultural experts. Over time, the concept evolved, leading to the production of numerous horticultural container styles as well as custom materials for industries such as hunting and packaging.

Freund's appearance on Shark Tank marked a pivotal moment for her business. Initially seeking $200,000 for a 10% stake, she introduced the judges to an innovative prototype designed for wine bottle packaging, highlighting the vast potential of expanding beyond traditional gardening applications. Although the deal presented on air did not materialize post-show, the exposure significantly boosted CowPots' visibility, resulting in increased website traffic and orders. Furthermore, it strengthened connections within the investment community, opening doors for future partnerships.

Beyond its environmental benefits, the CowPots operation exemplifies the interconnected nature of Freund's family businesses. Manure collected from the dairy farm fuels the production of biodegradable containers, which are then utilized by the retail garden center to cultivate crops sold directly to the community. This synergy fosters sustainability while promoting renewable energy practices. As Amanda Freund emphasizes, their little farm in northwest Connecticut contributes more than just milk—it provides protein-rich food, fertilizer, and clean energy year-round.

Through her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to sustainable farming practices, Amanda Freund continues to inspire others in the agricultural industry. Her story illustrates how innovative thinking can transform challenges into opportunities, benefiting both the environment and local communities. With ongoing developments in product design and market expansion, the future looks bright for CowPots and its visionary creator.