RAPID CITY, S.D. – A Spearfish software developer is putting the Black Hills on the map for food and technology innovation with the launch of his new app, micgrw (pronounced mike-grow).
Founder Timothy Ford, a South Dakota Mines graduate in computer science and applied math, is celebrating a Sept. 6 release of the iOS app, which he describes as a “microgreen journal” designed to help urban gardeners optimize their growing process.
Ford, who has spent the past nine years in the Black Hills, brings a strong background in app development to the project. He previously served as chief technology officer of the student-led startup HomeMetrics, worked on bike products for Quarq/SRAM, and most recently developed software for Wahoo Fitness.
“Microgreen consumption is on the rise,” Ford said. “Many people are turning to these little greens for freshness, nutrition, and sustainability. Growing them at home is the logical next step, and micgrw helps make that process easier.”
Unlike other plant and garden apps that focus on layout planning, plant identification or houseplant care, micgrw is built specifically for the short, tray-based growing cycle of microgreens. The app provides interactive journaling features, tracks seed density and harvest yields, and learns from user data to improve recommendations over time.
The app is free to download, with Ford using a “Buy Me a Coffee” link to offset costs. Long-term plans include a subscription model, potential delivery services for seeds and growing supplies, and integration with other gardening products.
Ford said he hopes to eventually partner with schools to use the app as a teaching tool, since microgreens grow quickly and can help students learn about biology, math, and the importance of journaling data.
For young technologists in the Black Hills, Ford encourages persistence and creativity even in a challenging job market. “People who love to build have never before had this array of powerful tools at their disposal,” he said. “Pair diligence with attention to detail, and you can realize your dream.”
The public launch will be marked by social media campaigns, YouTube tutorials and growing guides, and a celebration at Spearfish Brewing. While the Sept. 6 release is iOS-only, Android support is planned for spring 2026. More information is available at micgrw.app.
Ford joined the Rapid City Business Journal Podcast this week to share more about his journey and the development of micgrw.
