Cameroon - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Urban Farming Subscription Service: Delivering fresh, locally-grown produce to your doorstep, promoting sustainability and supporting local farmers.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

The Urban Farming Subscription Service is an innovative business venture aimed at connecting local farmers with customers seeking fresh, sustainably-grown produce. Customers can sign up for a subscription, where they will receive a regular delivery of seasonal fruits and vegetables sourced from nearby urban farms. This not only ensures that they have access to high-quality, nutritious food but also helps reduce their carbon footprint by minimizing the distance their food travels. By creating a direct link between farmers and consumers, the subscription service seeks to support local economies and foster a greater sense of community. Additionally, it promotes sustainable agriculture practices, as urban farming often utilizes methods such as vertical farming, hydroponics, and organic farming. Overall, this project aims to revolutionize the way people think about their food and its origins, encouraging them to make conscious choices that benefit their health, and the environment.

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

The main problem that the Urban Farming Subscription Service seeks to address is the disconnect between urban consumers and their food sources, as well as the environmental impact associated with traditional farming and food transportation. By providing locally-grown produce through a subscription model, the service aims to: Reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation of food. Encourage sustainable farming practices in urban areas. Support local farmers and economies. Promote healthier eating habits by providing fresh, nutritious produce directly to consumers. Foster a greater sense of community and awareness about the importance of knowing where our food comes from. Ultimately, the service seeks to bridge the gap between consumers and their food, offering a convenient and eco-friendly solution for accessing fresh produce while supporting local agriculture.

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

The Urban Farming Subscription Service offers several key benefits and advantages, including: Freshness and Quality: By sourcing produce from local urban farms, customers can enjoy fruits and vegetables at the peak of their freshness, which not only enhances the taste but also ensures optimal nutritional value. Sustainability: The service reduces the environmental impact of food transportation and supports sustainable farming practices, such as organic farming and efficient water use, allowing customers to make environmentally conscious choices when it comes to their food. Supporting Local Economies: By subscribing to the service, customers directly contribute to the growth and success of local farmers and businesses, strengthening their community's economic resilience and fostering a sense of connection with their neighbors. In summary, the Urban Farming Subscription Service provides a convenient way to access fresh, high-quality produce while promoting sustainability, supporting loca

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

The Urban Farming Subscription Service primarily targets several key groups of beneficiaries, including: Urban Residents: Individuals and families living in urban areas who want fresh, locally-grown produce but may not have easy access to farmers' markets or traditional farms. Health-Conscious Consumers: Those who prioritize healthy eating habits and value the nutritional benefits of fresh fruits and vegetables. Environmentally-Conscious Individuals: People who are concerned about the environmental impact of their food choices and want to support sustainable farming practices. Local Farmers and Businesses: Urban farmers and related businesses benefit from increased exposure, a stable customer base, and the potential for increased revenue. Communities: By fostering connections between urban residents and local farmers, the service aims to strengthen community bonds and promote a greater sense of local pride and togetherness. Overall, the project intends to serve a diverse range of custo

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-03-10

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

1

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

1

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

Name: Sama Lesly Technical Skills: Highly proficient in technology-related fields, with experience and knowledge in areas such as software development, data analytics, and web design. Experience: Possesses a strong background in the technology industry, with previous roles in software engineering, data analysis, or web development. Educational Background: Holds a masters in computer engineering , demonstrating a solid foundation in technical knowledge and expertise. Personal Attributes: Quick learner, adaptable, detail-oriented, and able to work collaboratively in a team setting. Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to think creatively and develop innovative solutions.

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

http://linkedin.com/in/tanyu-berinyu-a90b22264

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

l) Agriculture

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

We Strongly Agree (7) that our startup contributes to the goal of poverty reduction through the following ways: Economic Empowerment: Our service creates income opportunities for local farmers and businesses, empowering them to earn a living and improve their financial stability. Food Security: By providing affordable access to fresh, healthy produce, we help ensure that low-income households can maintain a balanced and nutritious diet, contributing to their overall well-being. Sustainable Agriculture: Supporting urban farming practices not only promotes environmental sustainability but also contributes to long-term food security, which is a crucial aspect of poverty reduction efforts. These contributions demonstrate our startup's commitment to combating poverty and aligning with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals."

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Our Urban Farming Subscription Service contributes to the Zero Hunger goal in several ways. By delivering fresh produce from local urban farms directly to customers, we improve food accessibility within the community. This ensures that people have a reliable source of nutritious food, helping to combat hunger and food insecurity. Furthermore, our support for sustainable urban farming practices contributes to long-term food security. By promoting local agriculture, we help create a more resilient and environmentally-friendly food system. This not only benefits the community but also encourages the development of sustainable farming methods that can be scaled and replicated in other areas. Finally, our service promotes healthier eating habits by providing customers with a regular supply of fresh fruits and vegetables. This encourages better nutrition and overall well-being, contributing to the goal of improved nutrition as part of the larger mission to achieve zero hunger. Through these

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

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

The Urban Farming Subscription Service promotes good health and well-being in several ways: Access to Nutritious Food: By providing fresh, locally-grown produce, the service ensures that customers have access to nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables essential for a healthy diet. Encouraging Healthy Eating Habits: The regular delivery of fresh produce encourages customers to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into their meals, promoting healthier eating habits and overall better nutrition. Reducing Exposure to Pesticides and Chemicals: By supporting urban farms that often use organic or sustainable farming methods, the service helps reduce customers' exposure to harmful pesticides and chemicals found in some conventionally-grown produce. Mental Well-Being: Engaging with local farms and receiving fresh produce can create a sense of connection to the community and environment, which may contribute to improved mental well-being and a better quality of life.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

While the Urban Farming Subscription Service may not directly provide education, it can still contribute to the Quality Education goal in the following ways: Nutrition Education: By providing customers with information about the produce they receive and its nutritional benefits, the service helps promote awareness about healthy eating and the importance of incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables into one's diet. Sustainable Agriculture Awareness: Through partnerships with local urban farms and by highlighting the sustainable farming methods used, the service can help educate customers about the importance of sustainable agriculture and its impact on the environment and food security. Community Engagement: By connecting customers with local farmers and fostering a sense of community, the service can encourage people to learn more about their local food systems and engage in discussions around issues like food access, sustainability, and health.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

5

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

The Urban Farming Subscription Service can contribute to the goal of Gender Equality in several ways: Supporting Female Farmers: By partnering with local urban farms, the service can help support and promote the work of female farmers, providing them with increased visibility and economic opportunities. Equal Access to Healthy Food: The service ensures that people of all genders have access to fresh, nutritious produce, contributing to improved health and well-being for everyone in the community. Inclusive Employment Opportunities: As the business grows, it can provide job opportunities to individuals of all genders, helping to reduce gender disparities in the workforce. Promoting Sustainable Practices: By supporting sustainable urban farming, the service can help create a more equitable and resilient food system that benefits everyone, regardless of gender.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

The Urban Farming Subscription Service can contribute to the goal of Clean Water and Sanitation in the following ways: Promoting Sustainable Farming Practices: By supporting urban farms that use sustainable farming methods, such as organic farming and efficient water management, the service helps reduce the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides that can pollute water sources. Reducing Water Waste: Urban farming often utilizes techniques like hydroponics and drip irrigation, which can help conserve water and reduce overall water usage compared to conventional farming methods. Encouraging Local Food Systems: By promoting locally-grown produce, the service helps reduce the distance food travels, minimizing the overall environmental impact on water sources from transportation and production. Raising Awareness: The service can help educate customers about the importance of clean water and sanitation by sharing information about the sustainable farming practices used by its partner farms.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

The Urban Farming Subscription Service can contribute to the goal of Affordable and Clean Energy in several ways: Supporting Urban Farms with Sustainable Energy Practices: By partnering with local urban farms, the service can encourage and support farms that utilize renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines, helping to reduce their environmental impact and promote clean energy. Reducing Energy Consumption in Transportation: By providing locally-grown produce, the service reduces the distance food travels, minimizing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions associated with long-distance transportation. Encouraging Local Food Systems: Local food systems, like urban farming, generally require less energy for production, storage, and transportation compared to conventional agriculture, contributing to a more energy-efficient and sustainable food system. Raising Awareness: The service can help educate customers about the importance of clean energy and sustainabl

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

The Urban Farming Subscription Service contributes to the goal of Decent Work and Economic Growth in the following ways: Job Creation: By partnering with local urban farms and delivery services, the business can help create new job opportunities in the community, contributing to economic growth and reducing unemployment. Supporting Local Economies: The service fosters economic growth by promoting and supporting local farmers and businesses, helping to build strong, resilient local economies. Fair Working Conditions: By partnering with farms that prioritize ethical labor practices, the service can help ensure that workers involved in the food production process are treated fairly and work in safe, decent conditions. Skill Development: As the business expands, it can provide opportunities for employees to develop new skills in areas like urban farming, logistics, and customer service, enhancing their overall employability and contributing to a skilled workforce.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

The Urban Farming Subscription Service contributes to the goal of Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure in several ways: Innovative Farming Techniques: By supporting urban farms that utilize cutting-edge farming methods like vertical farming, hydroponics, and aquaponics, the service helps promote innovation in the agriculture sector. Improved Food Infrastructure: The service can help strengthen local food systems and infrastructure by creating a more efficient, direct link between urban farmers and consumers, reducing food waste, and promoting sustainable food production. Promoting Sustainable Development: By contributing to the growth of urban agriculture, the service supports the development of resilient, sustainable cities and communities, which is a key aspect of modern infrastructure and innovation. Research and Development: As the business expands, it can collaborate with local universities, research institutions, and farmers to further develop innovative farming techniques an

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

The Urban Farming Subscription Service contributes to the goal of Reduced Inequalities in several ways: Access to Healthy Food: By providing fresh, locally-grown produce to customers at an affordable price, the service helps reduce inequalities related to food access and nutrition. This ensures that more people, regardless of their socioeconomic status, can enjoy the benefits of healthy, high-quality food. Supporting Marginalized Farmers: By partnering with urban farms, the service can help support farmers from marginalized or low-income communities, providing them with increased visibility and economic opportunities. Job Creation: Creating job opportunities in urban agriculture and related services, the business can help reduce income inequalities by providing decent work and financial stability for employees from diverse backgrounds. Community Engagement: By fostering connections between customers and local farmers, the service can help promote greater social cohesion and inclusion,

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Promoting Urban Farming: By supporting and collaborating with local urban farms, the service helps create more sustainable and resilient food systems within cities, reducing reliance on traditional agriculture and long-distance transportation. Reducing Environmental Impact: The service reduces the carbon footprint associated with food production and transportation by providing locally-grown produce, contributing to cleaner, more environmentally-friendly urban areas. Encouraging Community Engagement: By fostering connections between urban residents and local farmers, the service helps build stronger, more cohesive communities, enhancing social sustainability and overall quality of life. Supporting Local Economies: By partnering with local farmers and businesses, the service contributes to the development of sustainable local economies, which are vital for long-term community resilience and prosperity. Educating Consumers: By sharing information about sustainable farming practices and th

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

The Urban Farming Subscription Service contributes to the goal of Responsible Consumption and Production in several ways: Promoting Local Produce: By providing customers with locally-grown produce, the service encourages responsible consumption habits, supporting the idea of consuming food that is produced closer to home. Reducing Food Waste: The subscription model helps minimize food waste by ensuring that customers receive only the amount of produce they need, leading to a more efficient and responsible use of resources. Sustainable Farming Practices: By partnering with urban farms that employ sustainable farming methods, the service supports responsible production processes that minimize environmental impact and promote efficient resource use. Encouraging Seasonal Eating: The service can help promote responsible consumption by offering produce that is in season, reducing the demand for resource-intensive, out out of season produce

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Reducing Carbon Footprint: By providing locally-grown produce, the service minimizes the distance food travels from farm to table, significantly reducing the carbon emissions associated with long-distance transportation. Promoting Sustainable Farming Practices: By supporting urban farms that employ sustainable methods like organic farming, hydroponics, and efficient water management, the service contributes to climate mitigation efforts by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting more eco-friendly agriculture practices. Encouraging Local Food Systems: By promoting urban agriculture and localized food production, the service helps create more resilient and sustainable food systems that are better equipped to adapt to the impacts of climate change. Raising Awareness: By sharing information about the environmental benefits of locally-grown produce and sustainable farming practices, the service can help raise awareness about climate change and inspire customers to take action in the

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

5

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Reducing Pesticide Runoff: By supporting urban farms that use organic or sustainable farming methods, the service can help reduce the amount of harmful pesticides and chemicals that enter waterways, protecting marine life and ecosystems. Conserving Freshwater Resources: Urban farms often employ water-efficient irrigation methods like drip irrigation, which can help conserve freshwater resources and reduce the strain on aquatic ecosystems. Promoting Sustainable Seafood Consumption: While not directly related to the service itself, the business can encourage customers to consume seafood responsibly by sharing information about sustainable fishing practices and the importance of protecting marine life. Reducing Plastic Waste: By using eco-friendly packaging materials and encouraging customers to recycle, the service can help reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in our oceans, protecting marine life and ecosystems

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Promoting Biodiversity: By supporting urban farms that employ diverse farming practices, such as companion planting and crop rotation, the service helps maintain and promote biodiversity in urban environments. Protecting Pollinators: Urban farms often provide habitat for pollinators like bees and butterflies, which play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting the production of many food crops. Reducing Land Degradation: By supporting sustainable farming practices that minimize soil erosion and degradation, the service helps preserve and protect valuable land resources, ensuring they remain productive for future generations. Encouraging Local Food Systems: By promoting urban agriculture, the service helps reduce the pressure on natural ecosystems to produce food, allowing them to function more effectively as habitats for wildlife. Educating Customers: By sharing information about the importance of biodiversity, pollinators, and sustainable farming practices, the

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

6

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Promoting Social Inclusion: By providing access to healthy, locally-grown food for all members of the community, regardless of their socioeconomic status, the service helps promote social equity and inclusion. Supporting Fair Labor Practices: By partnering with urban farms that prioritize fair working conditions and fair wages for their employees, the service helps promote justice and equity in the workplace. Contributing to Community Resilience: By fostering a strong local food system and creating job opportunities, the service can help build resilience within the community, reducing vulnerability to economic and social shocks. Encouraging Transparency and Accountability: By ensuring that partner farms adhere to sustainable and ethical farming practices, the service can contribute to increased transparency and accountability within the agriculture sector.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Partnering with Local Farms: By collaborating with local urban farms, the service helps create mutually beneficial relationships that support sustainable agriculture and improve access to healthy food. Engaging with Community Organizations: The service can partner with community organizations, food banks, or educational institutions to expand its reach, promote food security, and raise awareness about sustainable farming practices. Collaborating with Local Businesses: By forming partnerships with local businesses, such as restaurants or grocery stores, the service can help strengthen the local economy and promote the consumption of locally-grown produce. Supporting Government Initiatives: The service can work with local governments or municipal agencies to support initiatives related to food security, sustainability, and community development.

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

4

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

6

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

4

05.08 Justification

The Urban Farming Subscription Service is unique and innovative in several ways: Novel Business Model: The combination of urban farming and a subscription-based service is an innovative approach to addressing food access and sustainability challenges in cities like Cameroon. By connecting local farmers with customers through a subscription model, the service creates a streamlined, efficient way for consumers to access fresh, locally-grown produce. Supporting Urban Agriculture: The service contributes to the growing urban agriculture movement by promoting and supporting sustainable farming practices within cities. This innovative approach to agriculture can help reduce reliance on traditional food systems and create more resilient, self-sufficient communities. Customized Offerings: By tailoring subscription options to meet the needs and preferences of individual customers, the service offers a unique and personalized experience that sets it apart from traditional grocery stores

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

potential competitors may include traditional grocery stores, local farmers' markets, and online food delivery services. However, the Urban Farming Subscription Service stands out from these competitors in several ways: Emphasis on Sustainable Urban Agriculture: Unlike traditional grocery stores and farmers' markets, the service specifically focuses on promoting sustainable urban farming practices, connecting customers with locally-grown produce while supporting environmental sustainability and food security. Customized Subscription Options: By offering personalized subscription options, the service provides a unique and tailored experience for customers, setting it apart from other food delivery services that may offer standardized packages or menus. Educational Component: The service goes beyond just providing food by educating customers about the benefits of local produce, sustainable farming practices, and the importance of supporting urban agriculture. This added value distinguish

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

Yes I am in the following ways: Sharing Success Stories: I actively seek out and share stories of successful female entrepreneurs, particularly those working in agriculture, to inspire and encourage others to pursue their own entrepreneurial ventures. Providing Resources and Guidance: I offer resources, guidance, and mentorship to aspiring female entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business in the agriculture sector. Encouraging Collaboration: I promote collaboration between female entrepreneurs, encouraging them to network, share knowledge, and support each other in their respective business endeavors. Highlighting Female-led Initiatives: I raise awareness about female-led initiatives, projects, and organizations in agriculture, showcasing their impact and achievements to inspire others. By taking these actions, I aim to create a supportive environment where female entrepreneurs can thrive and make significant contributions to agricultur.