Ghana - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

McHan Cosmetics transforms cocoa pod husks into high-value cosmetics and skincare products, reducing environmental waste and creating economic opportunities for women and smallholder farmers. Our eco-friendly, innovative approach empowers communities and

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

McHan Cosmetics is a sustainable agribusiness that innovatively transforms agricultural waste, specifically cocoa pod husks, into high-value cosmetic and skincare products, as well as cocoa potash. By repurposing these husks, we address significant environmental issues such as pollution and waste accumulation, while simultaneously creating economic opportunities for women and smallholder cocoa farmers. Our products are eco-friendly and ethically produced, integrating advanced cosmetics technology to ensure quality and effectiveness. Our mission is to empower communities by providing employment and free skills training in the cosmetics industry, particularly focusing on women and youth. We contribute to community development and gender equality, ensuring that our business practices align with several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate A

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

McHan Cosmetics aims to solve the pressing issue of agricultural waste management and the economic empowerment of smallholder cocoa farmers. Cocoa pod husks are often discarded as waste, leading to environmental pollution and lost economic opportunities. This waste contributes to soil degradation, water contamination, and greenhouse gas emissions, posing significant environmental and health risks. Additionally, smallholder cocoa farmers face unstable incomes and limited market access, hindering their ability to invest in sustainable farming practices. By transforming cocoa pod husks into high-value cosmetic and skincare products, McHan Cosmetics addresses waste management issues while creating new revenue streams for farmers. Our approach not only reduces environmental pollution but also provides economic opportunities for women and youth through employment and skills training in the cosmetics industry. This holistic solution promotes sustainability, economic growth, and gender equali

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

1.Environmental Sustainability: McHan Cosmetics transforms agricultural waste, specifically cocoa pod husks, into high-value cosmetic and skincare products. This innovative approach reduces environmental pollution and promotes sustainable waste management practices, contributing to a healthier planet. 2. Economic Empowerment: By creating new revenue streams for smallholder cocoa farmers and providing employment and skills training opportunities for women and youth, McHan Cosmetics fosters economic growth and supports community development. 3. Natural and Ethical Products: Our cosmetics and skincare products are made from natural, eco-friendly ingredients, ensuring they are safe for consumers and the environment. This commitment to ethical production enhances customer trust and aligns with the growing demand for sustainable and responsible beauty products.

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

McHan Cosmetics targets several key groups: 1. Consumers: Our primary customers are environmentally-conscious consumers who prefer natural and ethical beauty products. They seek high-quality skincare and cosmetics made from sustainable ingredients. 2. Smallholder Cocoa Farmers: By purchasing cocoa pod husks from these farmers, we provide them with an additional revenue stream, improving their livelihoods and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. 3. Women and Youth: We focus on empowering women and young people in rural communities by offering employment opportunities and free skills training in the cosmetics industry, contributing to their economic independence and personal development. 4. Local Communities: Through our sustainable practices, we aim to reduce environmental pollution and enhance the overall well-being of the communities where we operate.

01.05 When was your company established?

2023-04-27

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

2

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

2

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

Hannah Appiah: As the CEO and a director, Hannah has extensive experience in sustainable agribusiness and the cosmetics industry. She holds a degree in Agricultural Science and has led multiple projects focused on waste management and economic empowerment. Hannah is passionate about empowering women and youth. Nicholas Apenya Kofi: Nicholas brings expertise in business management and operations. He has a background in marketing. Nicholas is instrumental in overseeing the company's, marketing, health and strategic planning. 3. Emmanuella Ama Egyir: Emmanuella is our financial lead, with a background in pharmacy, accounting, and business administration. Her diverse skill set enables her to manage the financial aspects of McHan Cosmetics efficiently, ensuring our operations remain financially sound. Emmanuella's expertise in both healthcare and finance adds a unique perspective to our team, enhancing our product development and strategic initiatives.

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

https://mchancosmetics.vercel.app/

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: Agribusiness sector

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

McHan Cosmetics contributes to reducing poverty by creating economic opportunities for smallholder cocoa farmers and women in rural areas. By purchasing cocoa pod husks and providing free skills training in cosmetics production, McHan Cosmetics enables these individuals to increase their income and improve their livelihoods. This economic empowerment helps lift communities out of poverty and fosters sustainable economic growth.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

McHan Cosmetics promotes sustainable agriculture by repurposing cocoa pod husks, which supports cocoa farmers' incomes and reduces waste. By providing economic opportunities to smallholder farmers, we enhance their food security and improve their livelihoods, contributing to the goal of zero hunger.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

Our natural, eco-friendly cosmetic and skincare products promote healthier skin without harmful chemicals. Additionally, by reducing environmental pollution through recycling cocoa pod husks, we contribute to a healthier living environment. Our initiatives empower women and youth, enhancing their mental and economic well-being.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

McHan Cosmetics provides free skills training in cosmetics production, empowering women and youth with knowledge and practical skills. This training promotes lifelong learning and enhances participants' abilities to secure employment or start their own businesses, contributing to quality education and economic empowerment

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

McHan Cosmetics focuses on empowering women through employment and free skills training, providing them with economic opportunities and promoting gender equality. By supporting women in rural areas, we help bridge the gender gap in the workforce and foster community development.

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

While our primary focus is not on water and sanitation, our eco-friendly practices indirectly contribute to environmental sustainability. By reducing waste and promoting recycling, we help prevent water contamination and promote cleaner environments, which are essential for safe water and sanitation.

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

McHan Cosmetics indirectly supports sustainable energy by promoting eco-friendly practices and reducing environmental impact. While our main focus is not on energy, our commitment to sustainability aligns with the broader goals of reducing carbon footprints and promoting clean energy solutions.

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

McHan Cosmetics creates job opportunities for smallholder cocoa farmers, women, and youth. By providing employment and free skills training, we promote inclusive economic growth and decent work. Our sustainable business model ensures long-term economic benefits for communities involved.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Our innovative approach to repurposing cocoa pod husks into high-value products fosters sustainable industrialization. By integrating advanced cosmetics technology with eco-friendly practices, we build resilient infrastructure that supports sustainable production and promotes industry innovation.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

McHan Cosmetics empowers marginalized groups, including women and smallholder farmers, by providing economic opportunities and skills training. Our initiatives help reduce income inequalities and promote social inclusion, contributing to the broader goal of 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

By transforming agricultural waste into valuable products, McHan Cosmetics reduces environmental pollution and supports sustainable urban living. Our eco-friendly practices contribute to cleaner, more resilient communities, promoting sustainability and environmental health in cities and rural areas alike.

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

McHan Cosmetics embodies the principles of the circular economy by recycling cocoa pod husks into cosmetics and skincare products. Our sustainable production methods minimize waste and promote responsible consumption, aligning with global goals for sustainable production patterns.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Our startup actively combats climate change by reducing agricultural waste and promoting sustainable practices. By repurposing cocoa pod husks, we lower greenhouse gas emissions associated with waste decomposition and contribute to climate resilience, aligning with urgent climate action goals.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

4

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

While McHan Cosmetics' primary focus is on land-based sustainability, our reduction of environmental pollution indirectly benefits marine ecosystems. By promoting eco-friendly practices and reducing waste, we contribute to a healthier environment that supports the conservation of marine resources.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

McHan Cosmetics promotes sustainable land use by repurposing agricultural waste and reducing environmental pollution. Our practices support the conservation of terrestrial ecosystems and contribute to halting land degradation. By supporting smallholder farmers, we also promote sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation.

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

5

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

While our main focus is on economic and environmental sustainability, McHan Cosmetics promotes social inclusion and empowerment, which are fundamental for peaceful societies. By providing economic opportunities and promoting gender equality, we contribute to building inclusive and accountable communities.

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

McHan Cosmetics collaborates with local communities, NGOs, and other stakeholders to promote sustainable practices and economic empowerment. Our partnerships strengthen the means of implementation and support the achievement of multiple SDGs, fostering a collaborative approach to sustainable development. McHan Cosmetics collaborates with local communities, NGOs, and other stakeholders to promote sustainable practices and economic empowerment. Our partnerships strengthen the means of implementation and support the achievement of multiple SDGs, fostering a collaborative approach to 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.

5

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

4

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

5

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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

5

06.08 Justification for my startup

McHan is using technology in all aspects of production and also adding value to existing ones.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main potential competitors in the sustainable cosmetics industry include companies like Awakn Beauty Africa ,Duffys Organics . These brands are well-known for their commitment to natural and ethical products. However, McHan Cosmetics stands out in several key ways: Unique Raw Materials: We transform agricultural waste, specifically cocoa pod husks, into high-value cosmetic and skincare products, offering a unique sustainability angle that our competitors do not. Local Empowerment: Unlike many global brands, we create economic opportunities for women, youth, and smallholder cocoa farmers in our community, directly impacting local economies and promoting social equity. Advanced Eco-Friendly Practices: Our innovative approach integrates advanced cosmetics technology with eco-friendly practices, ensuring our products are not only natural but also effective and safe for all skin types. Skills Training: We empower women through free skills training in the cosmetics industry.

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

Yes, we are actively promoting the role of female entrepreneurs within our community. Here are a few examples of our actions: 1. Skills Training Workshops: We conduct regular workshops to train women in cosmetics production, providing them with the skills needed to start their own businesses. 2. Mentorship Programs: We offer mentorship and guidance to aspiring female entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business. 3. Networking Events: We organize events that connect female entrepreneurs with industry leaders, potential investors, and each other to build a strong support network. 4. Empowerment Initiatives: We partner with local organizations to run programs that empower women economically, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and self-reliance among women.