NAYA Marketplace

On its website, the Golden Saffron Company’s offer of “high-quality saffron spice and petals directly from the Pacific Northwest” seems perfectly aligned with Portland’s environmental conscious green marketplace. The North Plains, Oregon-business is led by third-generation sustainable agriculture farmer Tanya Golden, described on the website as a visionary. “From laying the foundations of the greenhouses and crop beds, to hand picking each stem with love, Tanya brings a conscious joy and passion to her work and community offerings,” it states.

But what the website doesn’t mention is the compelling story of Tanya’s journey from herbalist to business owner—and the pivotal role NAYA’s Microenterprise Program played in her breakthrough into business.