Andrew Dunham serves as the Rural Business Development Manager for the Loudoun County Department of Economic Development, bringing decades of hands-on agricultural expertise, scientific knowledge, and community leadership to the role.

Raised in a rural Iowa farming community, Andrew’s connection to agriculture began early, working on neighboring farms and assisting with his father’s veterinary practice. As a Peace Corps Volunteer in Tanzania, his interest in a career in agriculture piqued, as he worked as an agricultural extension officer leading livestock, horticultural, and nutrition projects focused on driving local employment and education.

Upon returning to the U.S., Andrew and his wife, Melissa, founded Grinnell Heritage Farm on his family’s heritage land, which was originally settled by his great-grandparents in 1857. Together, they grew the operation into a 20-acre certified organic produce farm serving CSA members, wholesale accounts, and regional farmers markets.

Andrew also spent time working in a USDA livestock research facility, collaborating with a state university to promote native plantings on working farms, and serving on numerous agricultural boards and advisory committees.

Andrew holds a degree in ecology, is a five-year resident of Loudoun County, and prior to joining the Department of Economic Development, managed a local non-profit farm.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys volunteering, exploring the natural world, and spending quality time with his family.