Chris Pacheco, Veteran Entrepreneur and Founder of Seacoast Mushrooms

Chris Pacheco, a Mystic, Connecticut resident and Navy veteran, has transformed his passion for sustainable farming into a flourishing business with Seacoast Mushrooms. Founded in 2015, Seacoast Mushrooms grew from a small facility into a 12,000-square-foot operation supplying restaurants, farmers markets, and communities across the state.

Chris applied his engineering expertise and commitment to sustainability to design a unique mushroom cultivation system using recycled shipping containers and locally sourced materials. His operation produces over 10 varieties of specialty mushrooms, including shiitake, lion’s mane, and blue oysters — delivering both quality and innovation.

Despite initial skepticism, Chris built a loyal customer base through education and outreach. Sales have grown annually, with Seacoast Mushrooms winning the Connecticut Restaurant Association's CRAZIES Award for Vendor of the Year in 2023. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic and major facility expansion, Chris maintained growth, proving his resilience and leadership.

Beyond business, Chris supports Connecticut’s agricultural community through partnerships with schools, local sourcing, and his involvement in the Connecticut Veteran Grown initiative. He sponsors the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center’s Wild Mushroom Festival and continues to advocate for sustainable food systems.

With a soon-to-be solar-powered facility and an unwavering dedication to quality, Chris exemplifies how veteran-owned businesses can innovate, lead, and give back. Seacoast Mushrooms stands as a model of entrepreneurial success, sustainability, and community impact.