Tanzania - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

In vivo embryo production through multiple ovulation and embryo transfer(MOET) refers to the process of producing embryos directly within the female reproductive tract(cows /heifer)

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Embryo production refers to the process of generating embryos, which can be done through both in vivo (within the female reproductive tract) and in vitro (in a laboratory setting) methods. In Vivo Embryo Production: It involves the natural mating or artificial insemination of a female animal, followed by the collection of the resulting embryos some time later. The embryos are typically collected at the morula or blastocyst stage, around 4-7 days after fertilization, using a non-surgical technique called embryo flushing. This approach utilizes the female's own reproductive system to support early embryonic development, potentially providing a more natural environment compared to in vitro culture. Can be used to increase the number of offspring from genetically valuable females in livestock breeding. Produces embryos of generally higher quality compared to in vitro, but with more variable yields.

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

Iv vivo embryo production, tends to maintain the genetic makeup of female animals of higher production value in our local society this will improve productivity and increase the income to the people and conservation to our environment through animals overcrowding with low production.

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

Through In vivo embryo production the following are some of advantages of this project intend to provide. 1. Increasing genetic progress: By allowing the collection of multiple embryos from elite female breeding stock, in vivo production can accelerate the rate of genetic improvement within a herd or flock. This is especially valuable for females with superior genetics that would otherwise only produce a single offspring per pregnancy. 2. Preserving valuable genetics: Embryo collection and cryopreservation enables the long-term storage and transport of valuable genetic material. This helps conserve the genetics of rare or endangered breeds, and allows for their future reintroduction. 3. Overcoming reproductive limitations: Some females may have reduced fertility or reproductive capacity due to age, health issues, or other factors. In vivo embryo production can help extract embryos from these animals, extending their useful breeding life.

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

The main beneficiaries of in vivo embryo production technologies are: 1. Livestock Breeders and Producers: Livestock producers, especially those working with high-value breeding stock, can use in vivo embryo production to maximize the genetic potential of their herd/flock. This enables them to make faster genetic progress, improve herd productivity, and increase profitability. 2.Consumers of Animal Products: Improved livestock productivity and genetics driven by in vivo embryo production can ultimately benefit consumers through increased availability and quality of animal-derived foods and other products. 3. Global Food Security: By boosting livestock productivity and preserving genetic diversity, in vivo embryo production technologies contribute to addressing global food security challenges. In summary, the main beneficiaries span livestock producers, researchers, animal health specialists, and industries

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-08-30

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.)

The partners are doctors of veterinary reproduction whom have experience in teaching and practicing animal production research for more than 10 years each, at SOKOINE UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE_MOROGORO Tanzania

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

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100008626277555&mibextid=kFxxJD

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

This project increases the income of local producer of livestock through production of valuable genetic traits contributing production and prevention of disease which hinder the female reproduction efficiency.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

_Consumers of Animal Products: Improved livestock productivity and genetics driven by in vivo embryo production can ultimately benefit consumers through increased availability and quality of animal-derived foods and other products. _Global Food Security: By boosting livestock productivity and preserving genetic diversity, in vivo embryo production technologies contribute to addressing global food security challenges

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

1. Improved food quality and safety: - By enabling faster genetic progress, in vivo embryo production helps livestock breeders develop animals with desirable traits like enhanced growth, feed efficiency, and disease resistance. - This can lead to higher-quality, more nutritious meat, dairy, and other animal-derived foods for consumers. - Reduced disease incidence in livestock also minimizes the risk of pathogens entering the food supply. 2. Availability of specialized animal products: - In vivo embryo transfer allows the propagation of animals engineered to produce valuable biologics, pharmaceuticals, or other specialized products that can benefit human health. - Examples include transgenic animals that produce therapeutic proteins or provide organs for xenotransplantation. 3. Conservation of genetic diversity: - By preserving the genetics of rare and endangered livestock breeds, in vivo embryo production helps maintain a diverse gene pool.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Quality education justification 1. Hands-on training for students: - Embryo transfer and related reproductive technologies provide valuable practical experience for students in fields like veterinary science, animal science, and biotechnology. - Hands-on training with in vivo embryo production techniques helps prepare the next generation of livestock breeders, reproductive specialists, and researchers. 2. Research and development opportunities: - In vivo embryo production supports research projects that investigate reproductive biology, genetic engineering, and other cutting-edge topics. - These research activities provide valuable learning opportunities for students and help advance the scientific understanding in these fields. 3. By increase the income this lead to the improvement of education resources include increase school to the village level national wise.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

1. Empowering female livestock producers: - In vivo embryo production can help female livestock producers and breeders maximize the genetic potential of their elite breeding females. - This can increase the productivity and profitability of their operations, enhancing their economic empowerment and decision-making power within the industry. 2. Enhancing food security and nutrition: - By boosting livestock productivity and availability of animal-derived foods, in vivo embryo production technologies can indirectly contribute to improved food security and nutrition. - This can have a positive impact on women and children, who are often disproportionately affected by food insecurity and malnutrition.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

1. Livestock productivity and efficiency: - By enhancing livestock productivity and feed efficiency through genetic improvements, in vivo embryo production can reduce the water and land resources required per unit of animal-derived food production. - This can indirectly help alleviate pressure on limited water resources, especially in water-stressed regions. 2. Waste management: - Healthier, more productive livestock resulting from in vivo embryo production may generate less waste per unit of output. - This can facilitate more effective manure management and reduce the risk of water contamination from livestock waste. 3. Research and development: - In vivo embryo production technologies can support research into improving the sustainability of livestock production systems, including water recycling, wastewater treatment, and nutrient recovery from animal waste.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

1. Energy efficiency in livestock production: - Improvements in livestock productivity and feed efficiency enabled by in vivo embryo production can lead to reduced energy consumption per unit of animal-derived food produced. - This could translate to lower energy demands and costs associated with livestock farming operations. 2. Waste-to-energy opportunities: - The manure and other organic waste generated by livestock operations utilizing in vivo embryo production technologies could potentially be used for bioenergy production, such as biogas or biomass fuels. - This could help increase the supply of affordable and renewable energy sources, especially in rural areas where livestock farming is prevalent.

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

Through 1. Increased livestock productivity and efficiency: - By enhancing the genetic potential and reproductive performance of livestock, in vivo embryo production can boost the productivity and output of animal-derived products. - This increased productivity can lead to improved economic returns for livestock producers, helping to support their livelihoods and create decent work opportunities. 2. Diversification of income sources: - The specialized skills and knowledge required for in vivo embryo production can create new job opportunities and income-generating activities, such as: - Embryo transfer technicians - Reproductive specialists and consultants - Researchers and scientists in animal biotechnology - These new economic opportunities can contribute to diversifying and strengthening local and regional economies.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Through 1. Technological innovation: - In vivo embryo production relies on advanced biotechnologies, such as hormone treatments, embryo collection and transfer, and cryopreservation. - The continuous research and development in these areas drive technological innovation and the advancement of animal reproduction and breeding sciences. 2. Specialized equipment and infrastructure: - The implementation of in vivo embryo production requires specialized equipment and facilities, including: - Embryo collection and transfer devices - Cryogenic storage tanks for embryo preservation - Specialized laboratories and clean rooms for embryo handling - The demand for these specialized technologies and infrastructure can spur investment and development in livestock industries.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Through 1.Livestock breed conservation: - In vivo embryo production can support the conservation of rare and endangered livestock breeds, which may be better adapted to local environmental conditions and the needs of marginalized communities. - Preserving this genetic diversity can help maintain the livelihoods and cultural traditions of indigenous and traditional livestock keepers. 2.Improved access to markets: - By enhancing the quality and consistency of animal products, in vivo embryo production can help livestock producers, including smallholders, gain better access to domestic and international markets. - This can lead to higher incomes and reduced economic disparities within and among countries.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Through 1. Efficient use of land and resources: - By increasing the productivity and output of livestock farming, in vivo embryo production can help optimize the use of land, water, and other natural resources required for animal agriculture. - This can support more efficient and sustainable land-use planning, especially in areas with high population density and limited agricultural land. 2. Waste management and circular economy: - The manure and other organic waste generated by livestock operations using in vivo embryo production can be utilized for biogas production, composting, or other waste-to-resource applications. - This can contribute to the development of more circular and sustainable waste management systems in urban and peri-urban areas. 3. Livelihood diversification and resilience: - The specialized skills and knowledge required for in vivo embryo production can create new economic opportunities

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Through 1. Sustainable resource management: - The use of in vivo embryo production should be accompanied by a commitment to the efficient and responsible use of natural resources, such as land, water, and energy. - Producers should strive to minimize the environmental footprint of their operations and explore ways to integrate in vivo embryo production into more sustainable, circular agricultural systems. 2. Ethical considerations: - The welfare of the donor animals used for in vivo embryo collection must be a top priority, ensuring that they are treated humanely and that their physiological and behavioral needs are met. - Responsible production practices should include comprehensive animal welfare protocols, pain management, and the minimization of any potential negative impacts on the donor animals.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Through 1. Waste management and methane capture:     The manure and other organic waste generated by livestock operations using in vivo embryo production can be utilized for biogas production, which can be used as a renewable energy source. 2.Land-use efficiency and carbon sequestration:    The increased productivity and output of livestock farming enabled by in vivo embryo production can help optimize the use of land resources, potentially reducing the need for land expansion and deforestation. 3.Resilience and adaptation:    The specialized knowledge and skills required for in vivo embryo production can help build the capacity of livestock producers to adapt to the impacts of climate change, such as changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, and the prevalence of pests and diseases. This can contribute to the overall resilience of the livestock sector in the face of climate-related challenges.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

1. Reduced nutrient pollution:    - By improving the efficiency and productivity of livestock farming, in vivo embryo production can help reduce the amount of manure and other nutrient-rich waste generated per unit of animal-derived product.    - This can lead to a decrease in the runoff and leaching of excess nutrients (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus) into nearby water bodies, helping to mitigate eutrophication and improve water quality. 2. Sustainable feed sourcing:    - Some in vivo embryo production techniques may facilitate the use of alternative feed sources, such as by-products from crop production or aquaculture, which can reduce the reliance on marine-based feed ingredients (e.g., fishmeal).    - This can help alleviate the pressure on marine ecosystems and fisheries, contributing to the sustainability of life below water.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Land-use efficiency: By enhancing the productivity and output of livestock farming, in vivo embryo production can help optimize the use of land resources, potentially reducing the need for land expansion and the associated impacts on natural habitats. This can contribute to the preservation of biodiversity-rich ecosystems, such as forests, grasslands, and wetlands, which are vital for supporting diverse life on land.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

1. Economic development and livelihoods: - Improved livestock productivity and efficiency through in vivo embryo production can enhance the economic viability and resilience of smallholder farmers and pastoral communities. - This can help alleviate poverty, improve food security, and support the livelihoods of people in rural and marginalized communities, which are essential for fostering peace and social stability. 2. Capacity building and knowledge transfer: - The specialized skills and knowledge required for in vivo embryo production can contribute to the capacity building of local institutions, extension services, and agricultural research organizations. - This can help strengthen the institutional and human resources needed to support sustainable livestock development and promote equitable access to technological innovations.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Multi-stakeholder collaboration: - The successful deployment and scaling of in vivo embryo production technologies often require the involvement of various stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, private sector actors, and local communities. - Fostering partnerships and collaborative approaches among these diverse stakeholders can help align different interests, pool resources, and create synergies to address complex sustainable development challenges. Knowledge sharing and capacity building: - The transfer of knowledge, skills, and best practices related to in vivo embryo production can be facilitated through partnerships between research institutions, extension services, and farming communities. - This can help strengthen the institutional and human capacities needed to support the sustainable adoption and scaling of these technologies, particularly in low-and middle-income countries.

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.08 Justification

Unique and innovative 1.Improved genetic selection: - In vivo embryo production allows for more precise and accelerated genetic selection by enabling the efficient identification and transfer of high-performing genetic material. - This can lead to faster genetic progress and the development of livestock with improved productivity, disease resistance, and other desirable traits. 2. Enhanced reproductive efficiency: - These technologies enable the retrieval and transfer of multiple embryos from a single donor animal, increasing the reproductive capacity and genetic contribution of superior individuals. - This can significantly improve the overall reproductive efficiency of livestock, particularly in species with low natural fertility rates. 3. Cryopreservation and germplasm banking: - The ability to cryopreserve and store embryos, oocytes, and other germplasm provides a unique opportunity to conserve and safeguard valuable genetic resources.

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

The project competitor is second side of production wich is in vitro embryo production wich also do not implemented in our local society However, in vivo embryo production technologies possess several unique advantages that can make them competitive: 1. Physiological relevance: In vivo embryo production closely mimics the natural reproductive processes, potentially resulting in embryos with improved viability and developmental competence. This can be advantageous for breeds or species with specific reproductive challenges or where the maintenance of genetic diversity is a priority. 2. Reduced biosecurity risks: As mentioned earlier, the in vivo embryo transfer process can help minimize the transmission of infectious diseases compared to the handling of gametes or embryos in a laboratory setting.

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

Yes, example making a partnership on their business ideas to stabilise their venture and so increase the profit. Providing business idea and how to meet the consumer needs