Namibia - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Green Garage is an innovative upskilling and educational hub designed to engage young people in fun, hands-on activities that focus on upcycling and sustainable practices.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Green Garage is an innovative upskilling and educational hub dedicated to fostering sustainability and entrepreneurial skills among young people. By transforming recycled waste into marketable crafts through hands-on workshops and projects, participants not only learn valuable skills but also contribute to environmental sustainability. Our membership model provides access to various workshops, tools, and materials, with experienced artisans leading advanced sessions. We also incorporate technology into crafts, creating unique tech-infused crafts. Green Garage hosts events and pop-up shops, offering a platform for young creators to sell their products and gain real-world business experience. We plan to collaborate with local schools, organizations, and eco-friendly brands to enhance community engagement and impact. Our multi-faceted approach ensures that Green Garage promotes sustainable practices while empowering the next generation of eco-conscious entrepreneurs.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

The main problem Green Garage aims to solve is the high amount of recyclable waste ending up in landfills in Namibia, alongside the lack of entrepreneurial and upskilling opportunities for young people. Namibia faces a significant waste management challenge, with over 90% of recyclable waste currently being discarded in landfills, contributing to environmental degradation and the loss of valuable materials that could be reused. Additionally, Namibian youth unemployment remains high, with rates exceeding 30%. Many young people lack access to practical skills training and entrepreneurial opportunities, which hinders their ability to secure sustainable livelihoods.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

Green Garage offers numerous benefits that address environmental and socio-economic challenges.By transforming recyclable waste into marketable products,we reduce landfill waste in Namibia, promoting environmental conservation and sustainable practices. This contributes to a cleaner, healthier environment.Green Garage empowers young people by providing practical skills and entrepreneurial training.Participants learn to create unique, eco-friendly products, gaining hands-on experience and business knowledge for sustainable livelihoods this addresses the high youth unemployment rate in Namibia, by equipping young people with skills to start businesses or improve employability. Additionally, Green Garage fosters community and collaboration by partnering with local artisans, schools, and eco-friendly brands. Overall, Green Garage promotes sustainability, socio-economic empowerment, and community engagement.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Green Garage is aimed at serving multiple beneficiaries, primarily focusing on young people and artisans in Namibia. Our main target group includes young individuals aged 15-30 who are seeking practical skills, entrepreneurial training, and sustainable livelihoods. We also aim to support aspiring entrepreneurs interested in the sustainable sector, offering training programs to help them develop and market their products. Additionally, Green Garage serves existing artisans who create products from recycled or sustainable materials by providing advanced workshops and a platform to enhance their visibility and sales. Educational institutions will benefit from our sustainability education programs as it promotes environmental consciousness among students. Finally, we cater to eco-conscious consumers by offering a marketplace for upcycled and handcrafted items, meetining the growing demand for sustainable goods.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-09-01

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

2

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

2

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

Tjarirove Kahuikee is a computer science student with a particular interest in youth climate action and green hydrogen, she has worked for Vanwell Konsult which is a consultant firm that specialises in business incubation. Albertina Frans is a mechanical engineering student with a passion for environmental sustainability and gender equality, she has worked for e-bikes for Africa which is a social enterprise that specialises in e-mobility and solar powered services.

01.09 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link here:

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

b) Materials (agriculture, fishing, chemical products, construction materials, containers and packaging, metals and mining, paper and forest products)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

5

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

Green Garage contributes to the "No Poverty" Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) by empowering individuals, particularly youth, with entrepreneurial skills and sustainable practices. Green Garage equips participants with the means to generate income and create their own livelihoods.Through membership models and product sales, it provides avenues for economic empowerment, enabling individuals to lift themselves out of poverty, thereby addressing the root causes of poverty and promoting inclusive economic growth.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

4

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

02.03.01 My project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

4

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Through its workshops, projects, and collaborations with local schools and organizations, Green Garage offers practical education that goes beyond traditional classroom settings, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among participants. By engaging youth in sustainability education and equipping them with practical skills for the future, Green Garage helps ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all, as outlined in SDG 4. Additionally, by offering online tutorials and webinars, it extends its reach and impact, democratizing access to quality education regardless of geographic location or socioeconomic status.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

5

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Green Garage embodies the principles of gender equality by championing the empowerment of young girls and women. As a team of women entrepreneurs, our mission is not only to promote environmental sustainability and entrepreneurship but also to create a space where girls and women feel empowered to pursue their passions and ambitions. Through our workshops, projects, and community engagement initiatives, we prioritize inclusivity and strive to break down gender barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields like technology and entrepreneurship. By providing mentorship opportunities, fostering a supportive community, and showcasing successful female artisans and entrepreneurs, Green Garage aims to inspire the next generation of female leaders and change-makers. In doing so, we contribute to the "Gender Equality" Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) by promoting equal opportunities for girls and women to thrive, both economically and socially,

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

3

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

2

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

Green Garage contributes to the "Decent Work and Economic Growth" Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) by creating opportunities for meaningful employment and economic empowerment through sustainable practices. Our hands-on workshops and entrepreneurial training equip participants with valuable skills in upcycling, technology integration, and business development, making them more competitive in the job market and enabling them to start their own ventures. By partnering with experienced artisans and offering a platform for selling their products, Green Garage supports local economies and the creation of decent work opportunities. Additionally, our focus on sustainability promotes a circular economy, leading to new jobs in green industries. By engaging youth and marginalized communities, Green Garage ensures inclusive economic participation,helping participants generate income, improve their livelihoods, and build a foundation for long-term economic stability.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

5

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

By providing workshops that integrate upcycling with technology, we encourage creative problem-solving and innovative thinking. Participants learn to transform recycled materials into marketable products, blending traditional crafts with modern technology.This approach supports the development of a resilient, green infrastructure that minimizes waste and maximizes resource efficiency. Our platform supports the growth of eco-friendly industries by providing resources, mentorship, and a marketplace for sustainable products.By engaging diverse communities, we ensure that the benefits of industrial innovation are inclusive, contributing to economic growth and sustainable development.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

5

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Green Garage contributes to the "Reduced Inequalities" Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) by creating an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all, regardless of background. Our programs target underserved communities, including women, youth, and marginalized groups, ensuring access to education, resources, and support for skill development and entrepreneurship. Additionally, our community engagement initiatives and partnerships with local organizations enhance social inclusion and reduce disparities. Prioritizing inclusivity in all activities, Green Garage helps reduce inequality within communities and fosters a more equitable society, aligning with SDG 10

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Our initiatives focus on upcycling and sustainable practices, transforming waste into valuable products and reducing landfill use and environmental impact. Through hands-on workshops and projects, we educate community members on sustainable living and eco-friendly practices, creating a culture of environmental responsibility. By creating spaces for collaboration and learning, Green Garage enhances social inclusion and community cohesion. Supporting local artisans and entrepreneurs helps bolster local economies and develop resilient, self-sustaining communities.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Our upcycling workshops teach participants to transform waste materials into valuable products, reducing waste and resource consumption. By integrating technology and innovative design, we encourage the creation of durable, marketable items from recycled materials, fostering sustainable practices over disposable culture. Supporting local artisans who use sustainable methods, we provide a platform for selling eco-friendly products, promoting responsible production. Our educational programs and community initiatives raise awareness about reducing, reusing, and recycling, cultivating a culture of sustainability. By engaging communities in sustainable practices and offering practical solutions for responsible consumption, Green Garage ensures the adoption of sustainable consumption and production patterns, aligning with SDG 12.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

4

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

4

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

3

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

2

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

By partnering with local artisans, environmental organizations, schools, and businesses, we create a robust network dedicated to promoting sustainability and eco-friendly practices. These partnerships enhance our capacity to implement effective educational programs and community initiatives, broadening our impact.We actively seek collaborations with international organizations and stakeholders who share our vision, enabling the exchange of knowledge, resources, and best practices. This collaborative approach strengthens our efforts to promote upcycling, sustainable living, and entrepreneurship, ensuring a united front in addressing global challenges.

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

2

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

4

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

3

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

4

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

4

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.08 Justification

Green Garage's focus on sustainability extends beyond its workshops and events. We actively promote responsible consumption and production patterns through the principles of a circular economy, encouraging participants to rethink their relationship with resources and waste. We prioritize sourcing local materials and supporting local artisans, contributing to the economic vitality of the region while respecting its cultural heritage.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

While there may be several entities focusing on aspects of sustainability, entrepreneurship, or community engagement, Green Garage's comprehensive approach sets it apart. Direct competitors might include local craft workshops, sustainability-focused organizations, or entrepreneurship programs.

10.06 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

At Green Garage, our commitment to promoting female entrepreneurship is deeply ingrained in our founding ethos. With a team comprised entirely of female founders, 90% of whom are women in STEM fields, we understand the importance of representation and empowerment. Through tailored workshops, mentorship programs, and partnerships with women-led businesses, we provide unwavering support and opportunities for women to excel in entrepreneurship. Our community events not only celebrate their achievements but also foster networking and solidarity. By empowering female entrepreneurs, Green Garage not only contributes to a more inclusive and diverse business landscape but also drives innovation and economic growth from within the community.