Welcome to the QCU Center for Urban Agriculture and Innovation (CUAI)

 QCU Center for Urban Agriculture and Innovation (CUAI)

The QCU Center for Urban Agriculture and Innovation (CUAI) is the pioneering research and extension hub of Quezon City University dedicated to advancing sustainable urban agriculture practices and innovations. Through active community engagement, transformative education, and research-driven strategies, CUAI envisions building food-resilient, environmentally conscious, and economically empowered urban communities.

Vision

To be recognized as a national and regional leader in urban agriculture and innovation, contributing to inclusive growth and sustainable development.

Mission

To serve as the central hub of urban agriculture and innovation initiatives of Quezon City University, enabling communities to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through education, training, research, and community partnerships.

Core Functions

CUAI operates through four interconnected pillars:

1. Training

We provide accessible, hands-on, and industry-aligned agri-entrepreneurship training for students, youth, and marginalized sectors. Our programs are designed to empower communities with sustainable farming skills and livelihood competencies.

2. Research and Development

CUAI leads research on innovative urban farming technologies and climate-resilient practices. This includes studies on vertical farming, aquaponics, Black Soldier Fly (BSF) waste systems, and more. We partner with government agencies (e.g., DOST, DA-ATI) to ensure real-world application and relevance.

3. Partnerships and Collaborations

We work closely with barangays, NGOs, national agencies, and industry partners to amplify urban agriculture’s reach and effectiveness. Through these partnerships, we co-develop solutions for food security, waste management, and inclusive economic development.

4. Production and Business Development

In collaboration with the academic sector and the Quezon City Government, we support the commercialization of farm products, connect community farms to markets, and encourage entrepreneurship among urban farmers and learners.

Our Flagship Program: “Joy is a Farm”

“Joy is a Farm” is CUAI’s signature initiative and a citywide movement for sustainable and inclusive urban agriculture. Launched in 2023, the program transforms idle and flood-prone lands into thriving community farms that serve as hubs for training, food production, green jobs, and community building.

Key Highlights:

  • Trained over 1,000 individuals including out-of-school youth, PDLs, solo parents, and senior citizens
  • Established partnership with more than 100+ community farms across Quezon City
  • Developed climate-smart infrastructure, including greenhouses, vertical farms, and BSF systems
  • Aligned with national policies (PDP 2023–2028) and contributes directly to SDGs 1, 2, 4, 8, 11, 12, 13, and 17
  • Implemented through the HAPPY Framework:
    • Holistic Approach to Urban Farming
    • Advance Agriculture Research and Innovation
    • Promote Food Security
    • Partnerships for Sustainable Development
    • Yield Joyful Harvest

“Joy is a Farm” showcases how local action can translate global development goals into measurable impact—empowering communities, greening the city, and promoting circular economies.

Our Organizational Chart

📞 Connect With Us

For partnerships, research inquiries, volunteer opportunities, or farm visits:

📍 Office: Quezon City University Main Campus
📧 Email: center.urban.agriculture@qcu.edu.ph
🌐 Contact Number: 0905 512 3253 (look for Justine Sanchez)
📘 Facebook: www.facebook.com/qcu1994