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ASPIRE BUSINESS
SPOTLIGHT
DANA
CUMMINGS
& PAUL
CUMMINGS
Photo by Aspire photography
CO-FOUNDERS &
CO-OWNERS,
SUNOVIS RANCH
Pioneering Solar Grazing and Sustainable
Agriculture in the Heart of Johnson County
For Dana and Paul Cummings, launching Sunovis Ranch
was more than just starting a business, it was about fusing
their passions to create something deeply rooted in
community, sustainability, and innovation.
“We each came to this with different strengths,” said Dana
Cummings. “I’ve spent my career in nonprofit leadership,
education, and consulting, while Paul has a background
in renewable energy and a lifelong love of farming.”
That blend of expertise led the couple to a unique
agricultural model: solar grazing, a practice that uses
sheep to manage vegetation beneath solar panels,
combining clean energy with regenerative land use.
“It just made sense,” said Paul. “It allows us to care for the
land, support renewable energy infrastructure, and build
something meaningful for our family, all at once.”
Located in Johnson County, Sunovis Ranch reflects
the Cummings’ commitment to rural innovation and
stewardship.
“This is home,” Dana said. “We believe in the
power of rural communities to lead the way in
sustainable agriculture. Starting here wasn’t just
practical. It was personal.”
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ASPIRE JOHNSON COUNTY, IN | 2025-26 BUSINESS GUIDE
That commitment shows in every aspect of how they run
the ranch. From maintaining strong relationships with
solar developers and fellow graziers to welcoming visitors
and students to the property, the Cummings emphasize
transparency, quality service, and education.
“We share our story on social media, host events, and
open the gates for people to see what we’re doing,” said
Dana. “Those personal touches build trust and help us
stay connected with our community.”
One of the ranch’s most impactful partnerships was with
Franklin College. Since 2020, pre-vet students have
visited the ranch every other Friday during the academic
year to gain hands-on experience with animal care and
husbandry.
“It’s been a fantastic collaboration,” Dana said. “These
students get real-world experience that strengthens their
vet school applications, and we get to help train the next
generation of animal professionals.”
Looking ahead, the Cummings are ambitious about
what’s next.
“Our goal is to make Indiana a national leader in solar
grazing,” said Paul. “We want to expand Sunovis Ranch,
support new graziers, and build strong partnerships in
the renewable energy industry.”
