Howard Berk
For nearly two decades, I balanced an IT career with an unconventional passion: cultivating mushrooms using phonebooks and cardboard. In 2010, seizing an opportunity to launch Chamblee’s farmers’ market sparked a life-changing journey. Meeting Todd Pittard there, we co-founded 2funguys, venturing into mushrooms. We began by selling DIY mushroom kits on platforms like 2funguys.com, Uncommon Goods, Williams-Sonoma, Shop Terrain, and Amazon. It was the perfect moment to pursue our farming dream.
In 2018, Megan Cai and I embarked on a mission to launch Ellijay Mushrooms a pioneering mushroom company, committed to community impact through commercial and retail sales. Our focus: cultivating top-tier Shiitake, Oyster, Golden Oyster and Lion’s Mane mushrooms, elevating industry standards. Revered for their exquisite flavor and texture, our mushrooms stand as the epitome of excellence in the fungal world. With a current production of 5,000+ pounds per week, our growth trajectory is promising.
At Ellijay Mushrooms, sustainability takes precedence as we prioritize delivering the freshest, most flavorful mushrooms. Holding esteemed certifications—including CCOF Organic, Georgia Grown, Primus 3.2 Certified (GAP), Certified Naturally Grown (CNG), and Appalachian Grown—we ensure the highest quality in every harvest.
Experience our mushroom farm store and discover a selection of mushroom-themed merchandise alongside locally sourced Georgia products. During the season, indulge in our U-Pick flower offerings. Continually seeking new avenues to share our premium mushrooms, we collaborate with local grocery stores, restaurants, and beloved independent shops. Our goal is to enhance your culinary journey with the exceptional flavors of Ellijay Mushrooms.
We deeply believe in the power of dialogue to initiate change—one conversation, one employee at a time. We foster an environment that allows each individual to shine and grow.
Joined the Aglanta advisory board in 2022, Board member of The Common Market SE Farmer Advisory Board. Awarded the 2023 Georgia Economic Development ‘Rock Star Award.’ One of four farms selected to collaborate with KSU on a mushroom smart container grant. Ellijay Mushrooms has recently been honored with the prestigious **Slow Food Award Snail of Approval**, a testament to our commitment to quality, sustainability, and taste.
I’m blessed with two wonderful, loving daughters aged 23 and 21, who teach me so much along this journey.