Zimbabwe - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

At AGLOCAL we harness the remarkable power of the Black Soldier Fly to breakdown organic waste into protein rich larvae and frass fertilizer in a controlled environment thus revolutionizing both sustainable food production and waste management.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

AgLocal harnesses the remarkable power of Black Soldier Flies to revolutionize waste management and sustainable food production. This game-changing approach not only addresses waste management challenges but also promotes eco-friendly farming practices, reduces reliance on inorganic fertilizers, while providing an affordable protein source for livestock and aquaculture. By efficiently converting organic waste into nutrient-rich fertilizer and high-quality protein feed, we are creating a circular and sustainable system that minimizes waste and maximizes resource utilization. Our innovative technology, powered by IoT and Computer Vision, ensures precise control and monitoring of environmental conditions, optimizing the growth and development of the larvae. You can simply install our system in your backyard and start turning waste into value. Everything else is taken care of. At AGLOCAL we are paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future in agriculture.

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

Our project addresses several interrelated issues: food insecurity, malnutrition, stunted economic growth especially to small scale farmers, and the low yield of Black Soldier Fly (BSF) due to their sensitivity to environmental conditions. 1. High Poultry Feed Costs: Poultry feed accounts for 70% of poultry farming costs, inflating prices and making the business economically unattractive. This high cost of protein contributes to malnutrition, as affordable protein sources become scarce. 2. Food Waste: Approximately one-third of global food production ends up in dumpsites, exacerbating waste management issues. This not only represents a significant loss of resources but also poses environmental and health hazards. 3. Climate Change: Organic waste contributes 10% of greenhouse gas emissions, fueling global warming. The decomposition of organic waste in landfills releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas, thus exacerbating climate change.

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

BSF larvae breaks down organic waste into high-quality protein feed (40-50% protein) for poultry offering a cost-effective alternative to expensive soybean and fish meals; the nutrient-rich organic fertilizer which also enhances soil health and supporting sustainable agriculture. This also reduces waste and recovers valuable resources. Environmental Impact: By diverting organic waste from landfills, our solution helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, combating climate change. Innovative Technology for Optimized Production: Precision Control and Monitoring Powered by IoT and Computer Vision, our technology provides precise control of environmental conditions for BSF, ensuring optimal production. Real-Time Updates and Monitoring: Users receive real-time updates on farm conditions, larval weight, and live video feeds via a mobile app or web dashboard, enabling proactive management. The system sends alerts when larvae are out of food, unhealthy, or ready for collection.

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

Poultry Farmers: eg (Broiler Farmers and Guinea Fowl Farmers): Our high-protein feed helps reduce feed costs and improves the growth rate and health of poultry. It also supports the health and productivity of laying hens, leading to better egg production and quality. Livestock and Small Animal Farmers: eg (Pork Producers) The protein-rich BSF larvae feed serves as an excellent supplement for pigs, enhancing their growth and overall health while reducing feed expenses hence improved productivity. Aquaculture: The high-protein feed offers an affordable alternative to traditional fish meal, improving the growth and health of farmed fish. Crop Farmers: Benefit from the organic fertilizer produced as a by-product of BSF larvae processing, which improves soil fertility and crop yields, promoting sustainable agriculture. Agricultural Suppliers: They can offer our BSF-based feed and fertilizers as innovative and cost-effective products, expanding their product range and market reach.

01.05 When was your company established?

2021-05-01

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

No

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

2

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

0

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

Munashe Nyazenga, the primary team lead is holds a BSc in Computer Engineering. He participated in the Ashesi Community Program and Scholars Entrepreneurship funds programs. He is a team player with excellent written and verbal communication skills, functioning optimally from a practical, realistic, and objective point of view. Munashe is interested in business and career-building through knowledge gain, innovation, and interaction, aiming to improve and develop new systems in the technological revolution. Makomberero Busu another cofounder is a Software Engineer passionate about agriculture. He leverages technology to enhance agricultural practices, driving innovation and efficiency. Simbarashe Tanyanyiwa holds a BSc in Electrical and Electronic Engineering and is passionate about agritech advancements for a sustainable ecosystem. He handles electrical development, focusing on integrating cutting-edge technology for sustainability in agriculture.

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

https://flysol.netlify.app/

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

l) Farming

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Our startup significantly contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 1: No Poverty by empowering farmers with affordable protein feed and organic fertilizer, reducing production costs, creating employment, improving food security, and promoting sustainable agriculture. By enhancing economic opportunities and resource efficiency, we uplift smallholder farmers, improve livelihoods, and foster resilience against poverty, thereby advancing the goal of eradicating poverty and promoting sustainable development.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger by providing affordable protein feed and organic fertilizer, improving food security, and reducing hunger. Through innovative solutions like Black Soldier Fly larvae utilization and waste conversion, we enhance livestock nutrition, increase agricultural productivity, and promote sustainable food systems. By addressing key challenges in food production and distribution, we strive towards a future where hunger is eliminated and all individuals have access to nutritious and affordable food.

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

5

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

Our startup directly supports Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being by enhancing animal nutrition through our innovative solutions. By providing high-quality protein feed sourced from Black Soldier Fly larvae, we improve the health and well-being of livestock, leading to better-quality animal products. Additionally, our organic fertilizer derived from waste conversion promotes soil health and sustainable agricultural practices, contributing to the production of nutritious crops. Through these initiatives, we aim to ensure healthier animals, improved agricultural yields, and ultimately, better human health and well-being.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

3

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

4

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

4

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

5

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy by utilizing solar power to operate our incubators. By harnessing renewable energy sources, we reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate environmental impact. Solar-powered incubators not only provide clean energy but also offer a cost-effective and sustainable solution for optimizing Black Soldier Fly production. This approach promotes energy efficiency, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and fosters a transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

5

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

Our startup significantly advances Sustainable Development Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. Through job creation in BSF production and technology-driven farming, we foster economic empowerment, especially for smallholder farmers, promoting inclusive growth. By advocating sustainable practices and offering skill development opportunities, we enhance resilience and human capital, driving productivity and innovation. Overall, our initiatives contribute to sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic development and decent work for all.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Our startup significantly advances Sustainable Development Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Through innovative technology implementation like IoT and Computer Vision, we optimize BSF production, fostering efficiency and scalability in agriculture. By establishing infrastructure such as BSF larvae production facilities and solar-powered incubators, we enhance resilience and productivity in agricultural operations. Promoting sustainable industrialization, we integrate circular economy principles, minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, fostering innovation ecosystems through research, partnerships, and knowledge sharing drives economic growth and competitiveness in the agricultural sector.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

5

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Our startup actively contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities through various avenues. By providing affordable protein feed and organic fertilizer, we empower smallholder farmers, reducing economic disparities. Job creation across the agricultural value chain offers opportunities to marginalized communities, addressing unemployment and income inequality. Through accessible technology adoption and sustainable practices promotion, we bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable resource management. Collaborating with stakeholders fosters comprehensive approaches to tackle social and economic inequalities, advancing towards a more inclusive society.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

5

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

Our startup significantly contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. Through innovative waste management solutions using Black Soldier Fly larvae, we reduce landfill burden and pollution in urban areas. Promoting urban agriculture with technology-driven farming systems enhances food security and resilience. By maximizing resource efficiency and engaging communities through education and outreach, we foster sustainability culture. Collaborating with local authorities ensures alignment with urban development goals, creating inclusive, safe, and resilient cities.

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

By offering a cost-effective solution for feed production, our startup alleviates financial burdens on farmers while reducing the environmental impact associated with conventional methods. This dual approach aligns directly with Sustainable Development Goal 12, promoting responsible consumption and production patterns. By optimizing resource use through innovative technologies like Black Soldier Fly larvae for organic waste conversion into nutrient-rich feed and fertilizer, we contribute to building a more sustainable agricultural system, fostering resilience and environmental stewardship.

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 is dedicated to combatting climate change by implementing sustainable solutions. Through solar-powered operations and waste conversion using Black Soldier Fly larvae, we reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By promoting eco-friendly farming practices and raising awareness, we contribute to emission reduction and carbon sequestration, fostering urgent action to address climate change and its impacts.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

3

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

3

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

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

3

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

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

Our startup is dedicated to advancing Sustainable Development Goal 17 by fostering partnerships for sustainable development. We look forward to collaborate with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, academia, and local communities, to address sustainability challenges collectively. Through knowledge sharing, technology transfer, advocacy, and resource mobilization, we plan to work towards achieving the SDGs. By leveraging diverse expertise and resources, we strengthen the means of implementation for sustainable development, driving progress towards a more prosperous and equitable future for all.

06.01 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

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

6

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

6

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

While Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae aren't new, our innovation lies in merging them with advanced tech like AI and controlled environments. These augmentations optimize conditions for BSF growth, boosting yield. Through AI, we fine-tune environmental factors crucial for larvae development, while controlled environments ensure consistency. This fusion of traditional insect farming with modern technology enhances productivity and sustainability, making our approach distinct and effective in addressing waste management and protein production challenges.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main competitors, Proticycle in South Africa, InsectPro in Kenya, and The Insectary in Kenya, are established in Black Soldier Fly (BSF) rearing. However, our startup holds a competitive edge: Proticycle: While they boast advanced machinery, they lack full automation. Our unique technology enables us to automate the entire rearing process, ensuring efficiency and scalability. InsectPro: Although a well-established player, they rely heavily on manual processes, limiting scalability. Our fully automated approach enhances efficiency, allowing us to operate on a larger scale effectively. The Insectary: Despite being well-known, they rear BSF manually and on a small scale, lacking precise control. Our automation technology enables precise environmental control, maximizing production efficiency and yield. Our competitive advantage lies in our unique and fully automated approach to BSF rearing, ensuring efficiency, scalability, and precise control, setting us apart.

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

none at the moment