Sonam Zangmo, the founder of FINN Production, stands as a beacon of culinary innovation and entrepreneurial spirit in Bhutan. Since its establishment in 2021, Sonam’s business has not only delighted customers with delicious, high-quality noodles but has also embraced the responsibility of offering convenient and nutritious food options that benefit both consumers and the environment. Through her innovative approach to food production, Sonam has created a brand that supports local agriculture, promotes healthy living, and helps preserve Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage. The inspiration for FINN Production came from Sonam’s keen observation of the region’s abundant agricultural diversity. Bhutan is home to numerous indigenous grains, many of which remain underutilized in the food industry. Among these is Druna Ghu, a unique blend of nine different cereals grown in Bhutanese soil. These grains—comprising buckwheat, millet, barley, rice, and others—have been integral to Bhutanese diets for generations. However, they have not received the attention they deserve in modern food production. Sonam saw an opportunity to bring these local grains to the forefront, creating a product that would not only be nutritious and flavorful but would also help support local farmers and preserve Bhutan’s agricultural traditions.
“Druna Ghu is a treasure trove of health benefits,” Sonam explains. “It’s rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and offers a healthy alternative to the more commonly used grains in commercial products. I wanted to create a product that would showcase these grains while also benefiting our farmers and promoting sustainable farming practices.” Her vision for FINN Production began to take shape as she explored the potential of these grains in noodle production, a product that is beloved by people
across Bhutan.
The Primary product of FINN is Glass noodles and diversified different products like buckwheat, quinoa, vegetable noodles with herbs, Red rice and white rice noodles. We are supporting farmers from Rubesa and chukha Dungna and also farmers from Punakha and bumthang ura. They have penetrated local market and now they are trying international market. Initially Sonam got support from MoICE when she was starting her business, back in 2021.
One of the key principles that sets FINN Production apart from other businesses is its commitment to sustainability and its strong focus on supporting local farmers. As Sonam began to develop her product,
she reached out to local farmers who were already cultivating Druna Ghu and other indigenous grains. By sourcing ingredients directly from these farmers, Sonam not only ensures that the grains are fresh and high-quality but also helps promote sustainable farming practices. “We want to make sure that our business benefits the community,” she says, “while also creating a positive impact on the environment.” This support for local farmers has had a significant effect on the local economy, giving farmers a reliable market for their crops and a fair price for their hard work. “By purchasing locally, we can ensure that the grains are grown using methods that are aligned with Bhutan’s values of sustainability,” Sonam notes. Her business has provided farmers with an opportunity to earn a steady income, which helps improve their livelihoods and contributes to preserving Bhutanese culture. This dedication to community and environmental sustainability is at the core of FINN Production’s mission.
“When we started, we had a clear goal in mind—to promote sustainable farming practices and preserve our Bhutanese culture,” Sonam shared. “Supporting local farmers and utilizing their products allows us to create a truly authentic and nourishing product.” Her commitment to creating high-quality, organic products has been instrumental in the exponential growth of FINN Production. What began as a small-scale operation has quickly flourished into a thriving business, capturing the hearts of consumers who value health, quality, and sustainability.
The success of FINN Production can be attributed to Sonam’s relentless dedication and innovative spirit. Over the years, she has worked tirelessly to refine her products, ensuring that every batch of noodles is made to the highest standards. The company’s offerings include a wide range of noodles made from organic Druna Ghu grains, all of which are packed with nutrients and full of flavor. “Our noodles are not only delicious but also provide a wholesome, healthy alternative to the processed noodles that are often consumed by people,” Sonam explains. Her products appeal to health-conscious consumers who want to enjoy the convenience of noodles without compromising on quality or nutrition.
In recent months, Sonam has further expanded her product line to cater to different segments of the market. She has developed specialized noodle products designed for children and people with diabetes. These new products are a testament to Sonam’s commitment to meeting the diverse needs of her customers while ensuring that they continue to receive the same high nutritional value that her original product line is known for. “It’s about catering to the needs of everyone in the family,” she says. “We want to provide options that are healthy for children and people who need to watch their blood sugar levels, without compromising on taste.” Sonam also shared about the training and workshops she has attained, she did an entrepreneurship course from EDII institute from Ahemadabadh (Gujarat) in the year 2022, supported by Indian Embassy and also received many trainings and workshops from ADB, UNDP, and UNESCAP. Whereas, about packaging she received training from ITC Switzerland supported by MOICE and also got opportunity to visit Singapore by ITC.
One of the challenges that Sonam faced in the early days of her business was overcoming the perception that healthy food is bland or unappealing. However, by focusing on the natural flavors of Druna Ghu grains and experimenting with different ingredients, she was able to create a range of noodles that are both nutritious and delicious. “The grains we use are flavorful on their own,” she says. “By combining them in the right way, we can create noodles that have a unique taste that our customers really enjoy.” Today, FINN Production stands as a model of what can be achieved when entrepreneurial spirit is combined with a deep understanding of the market and a commitment to sustainability. The business has become more than just a noodle manufacturer; it has become a driving force in the local economy. Sonam’s success story is a shining example of how one woman’s vision and determination can not only transform a business but also make a positive impact on the community.
As FINN Production continues to grow, Sonam remains focused on expanding her product line and increasing production capacity. “Our goal is to provide healthy and nutritious food options to as many people as possible,” she says. “We want to grow the brand and take it beyond Bhutan, sharing the goodness of Druna Ghu with the world.” For Sonam, the journey is not just about financial success but about creating a lasting legacy that empowers farmers, preserves tradition, and promotes healthy living. “The purpose of FINN Production is to bring nourishing and delicious organic noodles to customers, while positively impacting the local community and currently we are collaborating with women disability group,” she shares, her eyes brimming with pride.
Sonam’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the power of vision, commitment, and innovation. As she continues to shape the culinary landscape in Bhutan, she serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs who seek to create businesses that not only satisfy consumers’ cravings but also make a positive impact on the world. Through her work, Sonam Zangmo is proving that it is possible to build a thriving business that benefits the community, preserves culture, and contributes to a healthier, more sustainable future for Bhutan.
With her unwavering dedication to quality, sustainability, and community, Sonam Zangmo’s story is one that will inspire generations of entrepreneurs to come. As FINN Production continues to grow and evolve, it is clear that the future of Bhutanese food production is in good hands.
Despite the obstacles she has faced, including the financial difficulties of starting a new business and the challenges of educating consumers about the benefits of her products, Chimi remains resolute. “I have no plans to go to Australia, even if my business doesn’t go well in the country. With passion, I will go through all the challenges to tackle them and bring innovation to my cookies and make it happen,” she shared. This unwavering determination is what has kept her going, even when times were tough.
Sonam’s passion and perseverance have not gone unnoticed. Recently, she received a grant from the Department of Marketing and Cooperatives, which has further fueled her determination to continue pursuing her dreams. “The support I received from the Department of Marketing and Cooperatives has been instrumental in helping me expand my business. It has given me the resources to improve my products and reach a wider audience,” she says with gratitude.
