Ghana - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Aqua-Nova is a self-sustainable organic farm that utilizes organic waste in an IMTA and closed loop hydroponics farming powered with different renewable energy sources all integrated with AI to produce a variety of highly sought after organic products.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Aqua-Nova is a self-sustainable farm that recycles and reuses resources, integrating aquaculture, agriculture, and renewable energy. It utilizes organic waste in an IMTA (Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture) system, which basically means a combination of farming plants and fish. By breeding BSF for feed and compost in farming seaweed, tilapia, and catfish together all connected to a closed-loop aquaponic crop farm, powered by solar. AI technology monitors and optimizes production and products utilize biodegradable packaging and plastic reuse. Future expansions include a cold fusion unit, streamlined wind turbines and in-pipe hydro power, poultry, a restaurant, agri-tourism, and education of students.

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

Aqua-Nova tackles multiple challenges but mainly : Sustainable food production waste management Renewable energy Climate change mitigation Water conservation Biodiversity loss Soil degradation Energy dependence Food security Community development All this with the perks of promoting education, agro-tourism,

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

Sustainable food production: Environmentally friendly and socially responsible food production. Renewable energy generation: Reduces reliance on fossil fuels and mitigates climate change. waste reduction: Converts industrial waste into useful products, reducing ocean pollution. Water conservation: Closed-loop water management system minimizes wastewater. Biodiversity promotion: Preserves ecosystem services and promotes agroecology practices. Community development: Creates jobs, stimulates local economy, and educates communities. Food security: Increases access to nutritious food, improving health and well-being. Climate change mitigation: Reduces carbon footprint through sustainable practices. Innovative technology: Showcases cutting-edge aquaculture, agriculture, and energy technologies. Replicable model: Serves as a scalable and adaptable blueprint for future sustainabl

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

Our project serves local communities, small-scale farmers, and aquaculture enthusiasts, providing sustainable income sources and nutritious food. Targeted beneficiaries include: Low-income households accessing fresh produce and protein Smallholder farmers and fishers increasing their yields and income Women and youth empowered through training and entrepreneurship opportunities Environmentally conscious consumers supporting eco-friendly practices We aim to create a positive impact on food security, livelihoods, and the environment.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-05-25

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

3

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.)

Emmanuel Armah Sakyi -AI and Rachael Asiedu- Sustainability Nana Owusu-Koranteng | Scalability Erica Kwakye- Marketing

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

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

Strongly Agree Justification: Aqua-Nova contributes to the "No Poverty" goal by: Providing sustainable livelihoods for farmers, workers, and local communities Offering training and employment opportunities in sustainable agriculture and renewable energy Promoting social and economic inclusivity, reducing inequalities Increasing access to nutritious food, improving health and well-being Supporting local economic growth, stimulating innovation and entrepreneurship By addressing poverty through sustainable development, Aqua-Nova helps create a more equitable and prosperous society.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Strongly Agree Justification: Aqua-Nova contributes to the "Zero Hunger" goal by: Producing nutritious food (fish, crops, and black soldier fly protein) to combat hunger and malnutrition Promoting sustainable agriculture practices, ensuring long-term soil health and fertility Implementing efficient water management systems, reducing waste and conserving this vital resource Supporting local food systems, increasing access to fresh produce and reducing reliance on industrial agriculture Showcasing innovative, climate-resilient farming practices, inspiring others to adopt sustainable methods By addressing hunger and promoting sustainable agriculture, Aqua-Nova helps ensure food security and improved nutrition for a growing global population.

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

Producing nutritious food, improving access to healthy options, and promoting well-being Providing a sustainable source of protein (fish and black soldier fly), reducing reliance on industrially farmed animals Implementing sustainable agriculture practices, reducing exposure to harmful chemicals and pollutants Supporting mental health through connection with nature and community engagement Offering education and training on sustainable health practices, empowering individuals to take control of their well-being By addressing the interconnected aspects of health and well-being, Aqua-Nova helps ensure a healthier and more sustainable future for all.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Aqua-Nova contributes to the "Quality Education" goal by: Offering educational programs and workshops on sustainable agriculture, aquaculture, and renewable energy Providing hands-on training and experiential learning opportunities for students and community members Promoting lifelong learning and skill-building in sustainable practices and environmental stewardship Supporting inclusive and equitable access to education, particularly for marginalized groups Fostering a culture of innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving, preparing individuals for a rapidly changing world By empowering individuals with knowledge and skills, Aqua-Nova helps ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for a sustainable future.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Promoting equal access to education and training opportunities in sustainable agriculture and renewable energy Empowering women and girls through leadership development and capacity building programs Providing equal employment opportunities and fair compensation practices Addressing gender-based discrimination and promoting inclusive decision-making processes Supporting women-led initiatives and enterprises in sustainable agriculture and energy By advancing gender equality, Aqua-Nova helps empower women and girls, fostering a more just and equitable society.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

4

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Harnessing rainwater and greywater for irrigation and aquaculture Implementing advanced water treatment systems, removing contaminants and pollutants Promoting water-efficient practices, reducing waste and conserving this vital resource Providing education and training on water management and sanitation best practices Showcasing a replicable model for sustainable water management, inspiring others to adopt similar solutions

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Generating renewable energy through solar, wind, and biogas sources Implementing energy-efficient systems and sustainable agriculture practices Promoting access to reliable and modern energy for local communities Reducing reliance on fossil fuels, mitigating climate change

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

Creating jobs in sustainable agriculture, aquaculture, and renewable energy Providing training and capacity building, enhancing skills and productivity Implementing fair labor practices, ensuring equal opportunities and fair compensation Supporting local entrepreneurship, stimulating innovation and economic diversification Demonstrating a scalable and sustainable business model, inspiring others to adopt socially responsible practices

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Developing and implementing cutting-edge sustainable agriculture and aquaculture practices Designing and building innovative, climate-resilient infrastructure Fostering innovation in renewable energy and water management technologies Promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization through community engagement and education Showcasing a model for resilient and sustainable infrastructure development, inspiring others to adopt similar approaches

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Providing equal access to education, training, and employment opportunities Promoting gender equality and empowering women in sustainable agriculture and energy Addressing socio-economic disparities through inclusive and equitable community development Fostering international cooperation and knowledge sharing in sustainable development Ensuring equal access to resources, opportunities, and services for marginalized groups

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Designing and building sustainable, resilient, and climate-adaptive infrastructure Implementing innovative urban agriculture and aquaculture practices Promoting eco-friendly transportation and renewable energy solutions Fostering inclusive and equitable community development, ensuring access to resources and opportunities Showcasing a replicable model for sustainable urban planning and development

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Implementing circular economy principles, reducing waste and emissions Promoting sustainable agriculture and aquaculture practices, minimizing environmental impact Developing innovative, eco-friendly products and services Encouraging responsible consumption through education and community engagement Fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing to advance sustainable consumption and production practices

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Implementing renewable energy sources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions Promoting sustainable agriculture and aquaculture practices, sequestering carbon Developing innovative climate-resilient infrastructure, adapting to climate change Educating and raising awareness on climate issues, inspiring action Supporting climate change research, innovation, and policy development

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Implementing sustainable aquaculture practices, reducing environmental impact Promoting marine conservation, protecting biodiversity and ecosystems Developing innovative technologies for ocean pollution reduction and waste management Supporting research and education on marine sustainability and conservation Fostering community engagement and policy development for ocean protection

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Implementing sustainable agriculture practices, reducing deforestation and land degradation Promoting ecosystem restoration, reforestation, and biodiversity conservation Developing innovative technologies for efficient water use and soil conservation Supporting sustainable forest management and certified sustainable forestry practices Fostering community engagement and education on sustainable land use and conservation

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

Promoting inclusive and equitable access to resources and opportunities Fostering community engagement and social cohesion through education and training Supporting transparent and accountable governance practices Encouraging peaceful conflict resolution and mediation

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Collaborating with local communities, organizations, and governments to achieve sustainable development Building strategic partnerships with stakeholders to share knowledge, resources, and expertise Fostering international cooperation and knowledge sharing to advance sustainable development Supporting multi-stakeholder initiatives and alliances for collective impact Encouraging cross-sector partnerships to leverage resources and expertise for sustainable 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.

2

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

6

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.

4

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

3

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.

2

05.08 Justification

. Our project introduces a new technology that converts waste into valuable resources, reducing environmental impact. While some components exist separately, our integrated system is unique and unprecedented. By addressing unsatisfied demands for sustainable food production and waste management, Aqua-Nova revolutionizes the industry with a holistic solution. Our innovative approach creates new opportunities for sustainable development, setting a new standard for environmental stewardship.

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

Aqua-Nova's main potential competitors are sustainable agriculture and aquaculture companies, eco-friendly technology providers, and waste management firms. What sets us apart is our integrated, closed-loop system that combines sustainable food production, waste conversion, and eco-friendly technologies. Our holistic approach, commitment to circular economy principles, and innovative technology differentiate us from competitors, making us a leader in sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

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

Yes, Lions Club, Financial Literacy club, Learn to Read Foundation I'm involved in various initiatives to promote female entrepreneurship, including mentorship programs, workshops, and networking events. I believe in empowering women to pursue their business ideas and creating a supportive community for them to thrive. By promoting female entrepreneurship, I aim to contribute to a more inclusive and diverse business ecosystem.