Cameroon - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Milieu leverages AI to enhance farming efficiency by automating soil tests, offering crop recommendations, and reducing CO2 levels. Our offline device sends SMS feedback, improving yields and sustainability in Africa’s agricultural sector.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Milieu is a precision agriculture startup focused on solving food shortages and climate change. We develop an AI-powered device that automates soil testing, provides instant data and crop recommendations, and regulates soil mineral concentrations. Our device uses sensors to measure NPK levels, pH, soil temperature, and moisture, delivering results via SMS for offline functionality. Targeting Africa’s farming communities, Milieu addresses primitive farming techniques by offering actionable insights to improve yields and soil health. Our revenue model includes basic, advanced, and premium device options with annual maintenance fees. With strong initial traction, partnerships with local leaders, and a dedicated team, Milieu aims to revolutionize agriculture, making it more sustainable and productive.

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

Milieu addresses the critical issues of primitive agricultural techniques, low yields, and soil degradation prevalent in Africa. These challenges lead to insufficient food supply to support the rapidly growing population and contribute to climate change. Traditional farming practices fail to optimize crop production, resulting in poor soil health and reduced agricultural output. Additionally, the lack of access to modern farming tools and information further exacerbates these problems. Milieu's AI-powered device offers a solution by automating soil tests, providing instant crop recommendations, and promoting sustainable farming practices, ultimately improving yields, enhancing soil quality, and supporting the livelihoods of local farmers.

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

Milieu provides several key benefits: 1. Precision Agriculture: Our AI-driven device offers accurate soil testing and tailored crop recommendations, optimizing farming practices and maximizing yields. 2. Sustainability: By promoting organic farming and reducing chemical fertilizer use, Milieu helps preserve soil health and biodiversity, contributing to environmental sustainability. 3. Accessibility: Designed for offline use and capable of delivering feedback via SMS, our device reaches remote farming communities without internet access, democratizing access to agricultural technology.

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

Milieu's product targets smallholder farmers in Africa, particularly those practicing primitive farming techniques and facing challenges due to inadequate access to modern agricultural technologies and information. These farmers constitute a significant portion of the population reliant on agriculture for livelihoods but lack resources for optimal crop cultivation. Our AI-powered device aims to empower these farmers by providing automated soil testing, crop recommendations, and sustainable farming practices via SMS, thereby improving yields, enhancing soil health, and supporting food security in local communities.

01.05 When was your company established?

2023-05-11

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

No

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

3

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

1

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

Milieu is led by Chambah Roseh, who brings extensive experience as a full-stack developer and Agile project manager, previously serving as CTO at Bongalo. Nji Wisdom, another co-founder, contributes expertise in full-stack development and open-source tools through Afkernerds. Kernyuy Mariant, an agricultural engineer and founder of Ideal Farmers, enhances the team with her knowledge of agriculture and greenhouse implementation. Together, they combine technical proficiency with deep industry insights to drive Milieu's innovation and impact in precision agriculture across Africa.

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

https://www.linkedin.com/company/milieu237

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

Milieu contributes significantly to the goal of "No Poverty" by addressing key challenges faced by smallholder farmers in Africa. Our AI-powered device enables farmers to increase their agricultural productivity and income through optimized soil testing, crop recommendations, and sustainable farming practices. By enhancing yields and reducing input costs, Milieu helps farmers achieve economic stability and resilience against poverty. Moreover, by democratizing access to agricultural technology, especially in remote areas without internet access, we empower marginalized communities to improve their livelihoods and contribute to poverty alleviation at the grassroots level.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Milieu strongly contributes to the goal of "Zero Hunger" by revolutionizing agriculture through technology-driven solutions. Our AI-powered device empowers farmers with precise soil testing, personalized crop recommendations, and sustainable farming practices. By optimizing yields and promoting efficient resource use, we support food security in Africa. Milieu's efforts directly enhance agricultural productivity, ensuring communities have reliable access to nutritious food. Moreover, our focus on sustainable agriculture helps mitigate environmental impact, safeguarding future food production and contributing to long-term food security goals.

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

Milieu contributes to the goal of "Good Health and Well-being" by promoting sustainable agriculture practices that enhance both environmental and human health. Our AI-powered technology enables farmers to adopt organic farming methods, reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. By improving soil health and crop nutrition, Milieu helps produce healthier food with higher nutritional value, contributing to improved diets and overall well-being in communities. Additionally, by automating soil testing and providing accurate crop recommendations, we empower farmers to make informed decisions that optimize agricultural productivity and reduce health risks associated with poor farming practices. Thus, Milieu plays a vital role in fostering healthier lives and promoting well-being across Africa.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

3

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

We focus on innovation more rather than education.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

5

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Milieu strives to contribute to Gender Equality by promoting inclusive practices in agriculture. While our primary focus is on enhancing farming efficiency and sustainability, we are mindful of the critical role women play in agriculture across Africa. Our initiatives include outreach programs and training sessions that aim to empower women with knowledge and resources to participate equally in agricultural activities. By ensuring equitable access to our technology and educational opportunities, we aim to reduce gender disparities in the agricultural sector. While our efforts are ongoing, we are committed to fostering a more inclusive and gender-equal farming community through our innovative solutions.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

5

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

Milieu contributes to Clean Water and Sanitation by promoting sustainable agricultural practices that reduce water pollution and enhance water management. Our AI-powered technology helps farmers optimize water use through precise irrigation recommendations based on soil moisture levels and crop needs. By minimizing chemical inputs and promoting organic farming, Milieu supports healthier soil and groundwater quality. While our direct impact on water sanitation is through indirect measures, our focus on sustainable agriculture aligns with preserving water resources for future generations in Africa.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

6

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

Milieu contributes to Affordable and Clean Energy by integrating sustainable practices into agriculture. Our AI-powered technology promotes efficient use of resources like water and fertilizers, reducing energy-intensive processes in farming. By advocating organic farming methods and minimizing reliance on chemical inputs, we support a cleaner agricultural ecosystem that conserves energy and reduces environmental impact. Additionally, our devices operate offline, minimizing energy consumption and making them accessible in remote areas without reliable electricity. Milieu's holistic approach enhances energy efficiency in agriculture, aligning with the goal of ensuring affordable and clean energy access for all in Africa.

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

Milieu contributes to Decent Work and Economic Growth by empowering smallholder farmers with technology that enhances productivity and income stability. Our AI-powered solutions enable farmers to optimize crop yields and reduce input costs, thereby improving profitability and economic resilience. By promoting sustainable farming practices and providing access to advanced agricultural tools, we create opportunities for meaningful employment and economic growth in rural communities. Additionally, our initiatives foster entrepreneurship among farmers by equipping them with skills and resources to manage their farms more effectively. Milieu's impact on agricultural productivity contributes directly to achieving sustained and inclusive economic growth across Africa.

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

Milieu contributes to Industry Innovation and Infrastructure by introducing cutting-edge technology to agriculture in Africa. Our AI-powered devices represent a significant advancement in agricultural infrastructure, providing farmers with tools for precise soil testing, crop management, and sustainability practices. By promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, Milieu enhances efficiency in agricultural production and resource utilization. Moreover, our initiative fosters innovation by integrating advanced technology into traditional farming practices, thereby driving sectoral transformation and economic diversification. Milieu's efforts contribute to building resilient infrastructure and fostering innovation in agriculture, crucial for sustainable development across Africa.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

5

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Milieu contributes to Reduced Inequalities by democratizing access to advanced agricultural technology across diverse farming communities in Africa. Our AI-powered solutions provide smallholder farmers, who often face marginalization and lack access to modern farming tools, with affordable and effective means to improve productivity. By empowering farmers with knowledge and resources through our device, we aim to bridge the gap between traditional and modern farming practices. Additionally, our inclusive approach promotes gender equality by ensuring women farmers have equal access to technology and educational opportunities, thereby reducing disparities within agricultural communities. Milieu's efforts contribute to leveling the playing field in agriculture, fostering more equitable opportunities and outcomes for all farmers across Africa.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

4

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

Milieu's contribution to Sustainable Cities and Communities stems from our indirect impact on rural communities, where agricultural productivity influences broader sustainability goals. While our primary focus is enhancing farming practices and rural livelihoods, our AI-driven solutions promote sustainable land use and resource management. By advocating organic farming and reducing chemical inputs, we support healthier ecosystems and contribute to environmental sustainability. Additionally, our initiatives encourage local economic development and resilience, which are foundational to building sustainable communities. While our direct impact on urban settings is limited, our efforts in rural areas lay the groundwork for broader sustainable development goals, fostering inclusive and resilient communities across Africa.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

Milieu contributes to Responsible Consumption and Production by promoting sustainable agriculture practices that adhere to principles of the circular economy. Our AI-powered technology facilitates efficient use of resources such as water and fertilizers, optimizing agricultural productivity while minimizing waste and environmental impact. By advocating organic farming methods and reducing reliance on chemical inputs, we support healthier ecosystems and promote sustainable consumption patterns. Additionally, Milieu's devices operate offline, reducing energy consumption and making them accessible in remote areas without reliable electricity. Our efforts contribute to fostering a circular economy in agriculture, where resources are used efficiently, waste is minimized, and environmental sustainability is prioritized across Africa.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Milieu plays a crucial role in Climate Action by addressing key challenges in agriculture that contribute to climate change. Our AI-powered technology promotes sustainable farming practices such as precision agriculture and organic farming methods. By optimizing soil health, minimizing chemical inputs, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural activities, Milieu mitigates the environmental impact of farming. Additionally, our devices operate offline, minimizing energy consumption and making them suitable for remote areas with limited access to electricity. Through these initiatives, Milieu not only supports climate resilience but also empowers farmers to adapt to climate change challenges effectively. By fostering sustainable agricultural practices, we contribute directly to combating climate change and promoting environmental sustainability across Africa.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

Milieu's current operations and focus on agricultural technology, it doesn't directly contribute to the SDG "Life Below Water" which specifically addresses oceans, seas, and 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

Milieu contributes significantly to the SDG "Life on Land" by promoting sustainable agriculture practices that enhance soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem resilience. Our AI-powered technology enables precision farming techniques that reduce soil degradation and combat desertification by optimizing irrigation and fertilizer use. By promoting organic farming methods and minimizing chemical inputs, we protect terrestrial ecosystems and contribute to biodiversity conservation. Milieu's solutions empower farmers to adopt sustainable land management practices, such as agroforestry and soil conservation, which help halt land degradation and promote ecosystem restoration. Through these initiatives, Milieu supports the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, ensuring long-term environmental health and biodiversity preservation across Africa.

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Milieu's current operations and focus on agricultural technology do not directly contribute to promoting peaceful and inclusive societies, providing access to justice for all, or building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions as outlined in the SDG "Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions."

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Milieu contributes to the SDG "Partnerships for the Goal" by fostering collaborations with various stakeholders to enhance sustainable agriculture and rural development. We actively engage with local communities, farmers' organizations, NGOs, and governmental bodies to promote the adoption of our AI-powered technology. By partnering with research institutions and agricultural experts, we ensure our solutions are grounded in scientific knowledge and practical application. These partnerships strengthen the implementation of sustainable development initiatives, facilitate knowledge sharing, and amplify the impact of our innovations across Africa. Through collaborative efforts, Milieu aims to revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development, promoting inclusive growth and environmental stewardship in rural communities.

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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.

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.08 Justification for my startup

Milieu revolutionizes agriculture through AI-driven solutions that empower farmers with precise soil testing and organic farming practices. Unlike conventional methods reliant on chemicals, Milieu enhances soil health, crop nutrition, and food quality. By optimizing productivity and reducing environmental impact, we pioneer sustainable agriculture in Africa. Our innovative approach not only meets agricultural challenges but also promotes resilience and community well-being through advanced technology and ethical farming practices.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Milieu's main competitors include traditional agriculture methods and other agritech startups. What sets Milieu apart is its AI-driven technology that offers precise soil testing, promotes organic farming, and enhances crop nutrition. Unlike competitors, Milieu focuses on sustainable practices, reducing reliance on chemicals, and improving food quality and environmental impact. This combination of advanced technology, sustainable agriculture, and community-focused initiatives distinguishes Milieu in the agritech sector.

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

yes, we have 1 important team member and is a female. so we promote inclusiveness