Kenya - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Our IoT-integrated solution aims to revolutionize agricultural value addition with geothermal energy, offering reliability and cost-effectiveness. Geotto v1 application controls incubator hardware, using smart heat exchangers to hatch over 7 bird breeds

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

BnB Electrix is a pioneering startup established last year following eye-opening expeditions in Eburu supported by iTATU (an industry academia platform). Our encounter with Mr. Lucas, a local farmer & innovator struggling with conventional electricity for hatching, highlighted the untapped potential of geothermal energy in the area. Despite its abundance, the community lacked the expertise to harness this valuable resource effectively. Motivated by this gap, our diverse team, comprising members from various universities, united to create innovative geothermal solutions. Our primary goal is not just to provide technical solutions but also to raise awareness about climate change and empower local farmers like Mr. Lucas. Through our initiatives, we aim to transform how communities perceive and utilize geothermal energy, driving sustainability and resilience in agriculture and beyond.

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

Our main objective is to address the dual challenge of unsustainable energy practices and limited agricultural productivity in communities like Eburu. The reliance on conventional electricity not only leads to high costs and unreliable supply but also contributes to environmental degradation. By harnessing geothermal energy, we aim to provide a sustainable and reliable energy source for agricultural activities, particularly poultry farming, where consistent temperature control is crucial for successful hatching. Through our solutions, we strive to reduce the community's carbon footprint, lower energy costs, and enhance agricultural productivity, ultimately improving livelihoods and promoting environmental sustainability.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your startup provides (at least 3).

1. Sustainable Energy: Our geothermal solutions provide a renewable and environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels, reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable energy practices. 2. Cost-Effectiveness: By utilizing geothermal energy, our solutions help farmers significantly reduce energy costs, providing long-term economic benefits and improving their financial resilience. 3. Improved Agricultural Productivity: Consistent and reliable energy supply is crucial for agricultural activities like poultry farming. Our solutions ensure optimal conditions for hatching, leading to higher hatch rates and overall productivity.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your startup’s product/service is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Our product and services are aimed at serving small-scale farmers and communities in rural areas, particularly those with limited access to reliable electricity and sustainable agricultural practices. These farmers often face challenges such as high energy costs, unreliable electricity supply, and environmental degradation. By providing geothermal solutions tailored to their needs, we aim to empower these farmers with sustainable energy and agricultural practices, ultimately improving their livelihoods and promoting environmental sustainability. Additionally, for communities like Eburu with access to geothermal resources, our solutions can empower them to become suppliers of geothermal-based products and services like chicks or geothermally dried products to areas without direct access to geothermal energy, thus expanding the reach and impact of sustainable energy practices countrywide.

01.05 When was your company established?

2023-08-22

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

No

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

8

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

3

01.09 Please describe the profile of the other owners within your startup (skills, experience, etc.)

Dominic Kata, the CEO, brings expertise in electrical and control engineering, specializing in IoT. Cena Kanana, the CMO, advocates for women's empowerment and climate justice, leveraging a background in English and literature. Benta Wairimu, the CFO, contributes financial acumen with a commerce background. Victor Kipkorir, the CTO, is an expert in electrical and telecommunications engineering. Florian Milimo, serving as HR and also on the design team, holds a degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering. Mathew Kyalo specializes in mechanical and manufacturing engineering, focusing on R&D, design, and 3D printing. Collins Kiprop's expertise lies in veterinary medicine and surgery. Perpetual Gakeni, a masters graduate in agribusiness management, plays a crucial role as a community coordinator and value chain analysis.

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

https://www.instagram.com/bnb_eletrix_company, https://x.com/bnbelectrix, https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558931108919&mibextid=ZbWKwL

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

a) Energy (equipment, services, sustainable energy and fuel)

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

BnB Electrix contributes to the goal of ending poverty by empowering rural communities, particularly small-scale farmers, with sustainable energy solutions. By reducing energy costs and improving agricultural productivity, our solutions help lift farmers out of poverty and improve their economic resilience

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

We directly contribute to the Zero Hunger goal by promoting sustainable agriculture through our geothermal solutions. By improving agricultural productivity and reducing costs, our solutions help enhance food security, achieve better nutrition, and promote sustainable agricultural practices in rural communities.

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

6

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification for my startup

BnB Electrix contributes to the Good Health and Well-being goal by providing sustainable energy solutions for agriculture. By ensuring consistent and reliable energy supply for activities like poultry farming, our solutions promote healthier and more productive environments for both animals and farmers, contributing to overall well-being. The chicks that were raised in the geothermal brooder turned out more healthier compared to the normal production. Other than the energy we have set a small geothermal sauna in the community where residents can go enjoy and improve their mental wellness. The sauna is blended with some local herbs that are medicinal. The community in Eburu for instance has been condensing steam in metallic tanks for drinking, and through our forums we educate them about the hazards of drinking condensed water from such places.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

BnB Electrix is dedicated to addressing climate change to remote communities like Eburu through the promotion of green energy solutions, particularly geothermal energy. By harnessing geothermal resources, we contribute to circular economies by creating sustainable energy loops that reduce reliance on non-renewable resources. This approach not only mitigates the effects of climate change but also promotes economic and environmental sustainability. We have empowered the local secondary and primary schools with knowledge on geothermal through Geothermal Activism Clubs and we organize workshops for the local residents in churches and barazas. We also work with Nakuru Player's theatre to empower artists to do plays and art about geothermal technology to educate the public in a more fun and entertaining manner.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

BnB Electrix aims to contribute to the Gender Equality goal by promoting equal opportunities for women and girls in accessing and benefiting from our sustainable energy solutions. Through our initiatives, we strive to empower women in rural communities, enhancing their participation and contribution to sustainable development. We are developing programs for the women to rear chicken hatched from our systems and connect them with markets.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

BnB Electrix significantly contributes to the Clean Water and Sanitation goal by providing innovative solutions that enhance access to clean water in geothermal communities like Eburu. These communities with geothermal resources don't usually have rivers and if you dig a well either steam or hot water comes out. Our technology efficiently condenses steam, producing more water for these communities. Additionally, we educate them about water quality and purification methods, empowering them to make their water cleaner and safer. Through partnerships, we aim to install high-quality water tanks, like the aluminium ones installed by KenGen, further improving water access and sanitation in these communities.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

BnB Electrix significantly contributes to the Affordable and Clean Energy goal by providing access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions for communities facing challenges such as unaffordable electricity bills and frequent blackouts lasting for weeks. For instance, Mr. Lucas, a local farmer in Eburu, suffered significant losses due to blackouts while incubating eggs, leading him to give up on his business idea. Similarly, a women's group in the same community, donated electric incubators by an NGO, faced failures due to blackouts. Our geothermal technology offers a clean alternative, addressing these challenges and promoting energy access and sustainability in rural communities. Geothermal energy can be used in any direct or indirect application from heating, to cooking, to incubating, to drying and we have proved some of these in the community.

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

BnB Electrix contributes to the Decent Work and Economic Growth goal by creating employment opportunities and promoting sustainable economic growth in rural communities. Through our initiatives, we empower farmers with sustainable energy solutions, improving productivity and creating a more conducive environment for decent work and economic development. We shall empower the youths to learn hands-on skills like farming, welding, capentry etc and apply those skills in promoting different value chains, same with the women who will be empowered to practice agriculture like rear chicken using this free energy and create sustainable jobs. We aim to empower these grassroots communities that have a free but unutilized energy source. We also aim to create jobs for ourselves working in energy systems, hardware, software, data analysis, working with communities etc which will contribute to our economic growth.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

BnB Electrix contributes to the Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure goals by promoting the development of resilient infrastructure and fostering innovation in rural communities. Through our initiatives, we aim to set up workshops, training centers, hardware fabrication facilities, data centers, and other infrastructure that support the growth of sustainable energy solutions and promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization. Our start-up comprises of very innovative team drawn from different backgrounds and aims to create disruptions using geothermal technology to advocate for climate justice. We'll be applying all the latest technology like IoT, AI etc to build a more resilient and scalable ecosystem free to plug and play anywhere with geothermal acess.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

BnB Electrix significantly contributes to the Reduced Inequalities goal by promoting access to sustainable energy solutions and economic opportunities in marginalized rural communities. In places like Eburu, where residents are predominantly squatters and internally displaced persons (IDPs) lacking adequate basic facilities, our project plays a crucial role in creating awareness about such issues. By empowering these communities economically through our initiatives, we aim to close social gaps, improve living standards, and contribute to reducing inequalities within and among countries.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

BnB Electrix significantly contributes to the Sustainable Cities and Communities goal by investing in multiple value chains in rural communities using geothermal energy. By empowering these communities, they can build better amenities and improve infrastructure. With geothermal energy at the heart of these developments, we contribute to creating inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and human settlements.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

BnB Electrix significantly contributes to the Responsible Consumption and Production goal by promoting sustainable energy solutions that support circular economy principles. Geothermal energy, a key component of our solutions, not only hatches and broods chicks more efficiently but also facilitates better drying of products at a lower cost. By integrating IoT technology, we can remotely monitor and control these systems, improving efficiency and minimizing risks. This approach promotes responsible consumption and production patterns, aligning with the goal of sustainable development.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

BnB Electrix strongly contributes to the Climate Action goal by promoting the use of geothermal energy, a clean and renewable energy source. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, our solutions help combat climate change and its impacts, aligning with the urgent need for climate action.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

4

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

BnB Electrix does not directly contribute to the Life Below Water goal, as our focus is primarily on land-based sustainable energy solutions. However, by promoting sustainable practices on land, we indirectly contribute to reducing land-based pollution that can impact marine ecosystems.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

BnB Electrix significantly contributes to the Life on Land goal by promoting sustainable land use through geothermal energy solutions. Our initiatives focus on reducing reliance on unsustainable energy sources and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in rural communities. By harnessing geothermal energy, we help protect and restore terrestrial ecosystems, combat desertification, and halt biodiversity loss. Additionally, our projects aim to create awareness about the importance of land conservation and sustainable practices, empowering communities to take action for the preservation of life on land.

02.16.01 My startup contributes to the Peace Justice and Strong Institutions goal

4

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

BnB Electrix does not directly contribute to the Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions goal, as our focus is primarily on sustainable energy solutions. However, by promoting economic empowerment and access to clean energy, we indirectly contribute to creating more stable and inclusive societies, which are foundational elements for achieving peace, justice, and strong institution

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

BnB Electrix strongly contributes to the Partnerships for the Goal by actively engaging in collaborations and partnerships to drive sustainable development. We partnered with Mr. Lucas to create pilot projects in his farm, demonstrating the practicality and effectiveness of our solutions in poultry farming. Additionally, we collaborated with Hudson Drilling and Eburu Cooperative Society to utilize two geothermal wells for other pilot projects in drying sunflowers and poultry as well, showcasing the potential of geothermal energy in various applications. Furthermore, our partnership with iTATU, a hub of young national innovators, highlights our commitment to fostering collaborations that promote innovation and sustainable development. We are open to more partnerships that will help us move forward and achieve our shared goals for sustainable development.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

06.02 The product/service represents an entirely new type of product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.03 The product/service could be described as a new technology.

6

06.04 The product/service is an improvement on an existing product or service.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.05 The product/service could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

7 - Strongly Agree

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

6

06.07 The product/service is a new version of an old product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.08 Justification for my startup

Geotto represents a groundbreaking innovation, offering a unique integration of geothermal energy and IoT technology in agricultural value chains. Unlike existing solutions, Geotto stands out as a novel and entirely new type of product, leveraging cutting-edge technology to address the unmet need for sustainable energy solutions in agriculture. Its introduction marks a significant advancement in the field, providing a comprehensive and innovative approach to harnessing geothermal energy for agricultural applications. This pioneering technology not only responds to a previously unmet demand but also showcases a new technological frontier in the agricultural sector.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main potential competitors include companies offering traditional energy solutions and those providing basic IoT applications in agriculture. However, what sets us apart is our focus on integrating geothermal energy, a sustainable and abundant resource, with advanced IoT technology tailored specifically for agricultural value chains. This unique combination allows us to offer a comprehensive and efficient solution that addresses the pressing need for sustainable energy in agriculture. Additionally, our strong emphasis on community engagement, local sourcing, and cultural respect gives us a competitive edge by fostering trust and long-term partnerships within the communities we serve. Overall, our innovative approach and commitment to sustainability distinguish us from competitors in the market.

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

Yes, I am actively involved in promoting the role of female entrepreneurs within my community. As the national student ambassador of iTATU, I have worked to ensure a balanced representation of females and males in various innovation projects and as campus representatives. My efforts have focused on linking female students with industries to support their entrepreneurial endeavors. Additionally, within my startup, I prioritize the recruitment of competent female professionals, actively seeking to include them in our team to foster diversity and gender equality in entrepreneurship.