Ghana - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Bornbalanced+ is transforming school snacks in Ghana by ensuring every child has convenient and affordable access to healthy fruit snacks, in order to support their growth and well-being while promoting sustainable practices.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Bornbalanced+ is dedicated to revolutionizing school snacks in Ghana by providing healthy fruit snacks that are both convenient and affordable. Our mission is to ensure every child has access to nutritious snacks that support their growth and well-being. We collaborate with local distributors/vendors to obtain high-quality fruits, boosting local economies. Our fruit snack offerings are designed to be appealing and culturally relevant, encouraging parents/guardians to choose healthier options for their children. By implementing innovative distribution methods, we aim to reach schools across Ghana, ensuring that all students, regardless of their socio-economic background, can benefit from our nutritious fruit snack offerings. Our comprehensive approach addresses logistical, financial, and cultural aspects to create a sustainable, impactful fruit snack program.

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

The main problem we are addressing is the lack of convenient access to healthy, nutritious snacks for school children in Ghana. As a result, many school-going children rely on unhealthy, processed snacks that contribute to poor health outcomes such as obesity, malnutrition, and related non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Additionally, there is a significant gap in the availability of affordable, convenient snack options. This issue is exacerbated by logistical challenges and limited resources within schools and communities, making it difficult to implement effective nutrition programs. By providing a sustainable solution that integrates local fruit distributors/vendors, we aim to improve children's health, support their academic performance, and promote overall well-being.

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

Bornbalanced+ offers significant benefits to various stakeholders in the education ecosystem: a. Nutritional Value: Our fruit snacks are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, promoting the health and growth of children. b. Convenience: Easy-to-carry and consume, our snacks are perfect for busy school days, ensuring children have access to healthy options anytime, anywhere. c. Affordability: By leveraging local resources and efficient distribution channels, we keep costs low, making healthy snacks accessible to all students regardless of socioeconomic status. d. Educational Engagement: Our packaging includes QR codes that link to fun and informative content about nutrition, fostering an early interest in healthy eating habits.

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

Bornbalanced+ is designed to serve a specific range of beneficiaries within the educational sector: a. Students: Primary beneficiaries are schoolchildren who will have consistent access to nutritious snacks that support their physical and cognitive development. b. Parents: By providing a reliable source of healthy snacks, we ease parental concerns about their children's diet, helping them focus on other responsibilities. c. Schools: Partnering schools benefit from enhanced student health and engagement, contributing to a better learning environment and overall school performance. Local Distributors/Vendors: We aim to empower local distributors/vendors by sourcing our fruits directly from them, ensuring a stable income and promoting sustainable practices.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-04-01

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

11

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

5

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

1. Guy-Marie Kassapu Tenejou (Earth Science) - Role: Founder 2. David Kumah (Marine Engineering) - Role: Logistics and Infrastructure Advisor 3, Michel-Andre Tenejou (Banking and Finance) - Role: Financial Planner and Analyst 4. Donald Fifonsi (Physics and Computer Science) - Role: Technology and Platform Developer Advisor 5. Melanie Asante (Business Administration) - Operations Advisor 6. Cresential Edinuful (Biochemistry & Nutrition) - Role: Nutrition Specialist 7. Clavet Owusu Boateng (Biology) - Role: Quality Control and Safety Advisor 8. Boniface Dakey (Computer Engineering) - Role: Technology and Platform Developer Advisor 9. Graselda Aning (Biomedical Engineering) - Role: Product Development and Innovation Advisor 10. Lisa Moundi (Marine Science) - Role: Sustainability and Environmental Advisor 11. Jessica Togbe (Agriculture-Crop science) - Role: Sourcing and Supplier Relations Advisor 12. Enoch Tetteh (Business Administration) - Role: Marketing and Sales Advisor

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?

d) Primary commodities (food, drink, household and personal products)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

5

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

Bornbalanced+ contributes to the goal of No Poverty by creating job opportunities throughout our supply chain, from local farmers to distribution networks. By sourcing fruits locally, we support small-scale distributors/vendors, providing them with a stable income and promoting economic growth even in rural communities. Additionally, our affordable pricing strategy ensures that nutritious snacks are accessible to children from low-income families, improving their health and well-being, which can lead to better educational outcomes and future economic opportunities. Through these efforts, we aim to break the cycle of poverty by fostering sustainable economic development and enhancing the quality of life for vulnerable populations.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Bornbalanced+ strongly contributes to the goal of Zero Hunger by ensuring that every child has access to nutritious fruit snacks. By sourcing fresh produce from local distributors/vendors, we promote agricultural development and food security in Ghana. Our initiative addresses food scarcity by providing consistent demand for local fruits, thus supporting farmers and reducing post-harvest losses. Additionally, our affordable and healthy snacks help combat malnutrition among school children, contributing to their overall growth and development. Through these measures, we aim to create a sustainable food system that not only alleviates hunger but also promotes long-term food security and nutrition for all.

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

Bornbalanced+ strongly contributes to the goal of Good Health and Well-being by providing school children with nutritious, fresh fruit snacks that support their physical and cognitive development. Our snacks are designed to meet dietary requirements, helping to reduce the prevalence of childhood obesity and other diet-related health issues. By promoting healthy eating habits from a young age, we encourage lifelong well-being. Additionally, our educational programs on nutrition and healthy living empower children and their families to make informed dietary choices, further enhancing overall health outcomes in the community. Our focus on sustainability and local sourcing ensures that our products are both healthful and environmentally friendly, creating a holistic approach to well-being.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Bornbalanced+ contributes to the goal of Quality Education by ensuring that students have access to nutritious snacks, which are essential for maintaining focus, energy, and cognitive function throughout the school day. Proper nutrition directly impacts students' ability to learn and perform academically. Additionally, our program includes educational components that teach students about healthy eating habits, the importance of nutrition, and sustainable practices. By integrating these lessons into the school curriculum, we help foster a holistic learning environment that goes beyond traditional academics, equipping students with knowledge and skills that benefit their overall well-being and future success. Furthermore, by partnering with schools and involving educators in our initiatives, we create a supportive ecosystem that reinforces the value of health and education working hand-in-hand.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Bornbalanced+ contributes to the goal of Gender Equality by promoting an inclusive and diverse work environment where women and men have equal opportunities to contribute and lead. Our team is composed of 11 members, with a near-balanced gender ratio of 5 females and 7 males. This commitment to gender diversity ensures that multiple perspectives are considered in our decision-making processes and product development, fostering innovation and inclusivity. Additionally, we intend to actively support the empowerment of women and girls through our educational initiatives in schools, emphasizing the importance of nutrition and health for all students. By highlighting female role models within our team and promoting gender equality in our outreach and educational programs, we aim to inspire and empower the next generation of women leaders and professionals. Our efforts help create a more equitable and supportive environment, both within our organization and in the broader community we serve.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Bornbalanced+ contributes to the Clean Water and Sanitation goal by ensuring that our fruit snack production processes adhere to stringent water management practices. We prioritize the use of clean water in the preparation and packaging of our snacks, ensuring that all products are safe and hygienic for consumption. Additionally, we educate school communities about the importance of clean water and proper sanitation through our health and nutrition programs. Our commitment to sustainable practices includes the efficient use of water resources and the reduction of waste, which aligns with our broader goal of promoting environmental sustainability. By integrating these practices into our operations and outreach efforts, we help raise awareness about the significance of clean water and sanitation, contributing to healthier and more informed communities.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

3

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

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

Bornbalanced+ is committed to promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth by creating job opportunities within the local communities. We intend to employ local distributors and vendors, ensuring fair wages and decent working conditions. By sourcing our fruits locally, we support the agricultural sector and contribute to the economic growth of rural areas. Our startup is also investing in the professional development of our employees, offering training and skill-building programs that enhance their productivity and career prospects. Furthermore, we foster an inclusive work environment that encourages diversity and equal opportunities for all team members, regardless of gender or background. Through these initiatives, Bornbalanced+ not only provides high-quality, nutritious snacks to school children but also drives economic empowerment and growth within the communities we serve.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

4

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Bornbalanced+ is committed to reducing inequalities, particularly financial inequality, by ensuring that quality nutrition is accessible to all children, regardless of their socioeconomic background. Our affordable, healthy fruit-based snacks are designed to provide essential nutrients to school children who might otherwise be unable to access such high-quality food options. By working with local distributors and leveraging economies of scale, we keep our costs low and pass these savings on to consumers. Additionally, our educational initiatives aim to raise awareness about healthy eating habits among all socioeconomic groups, promoting equal access to nutrition knowledge. Through these efforts, we address disparities in health and nutrition, helping to create a more equitable society.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

4

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Bornbalanced+ supports sustainable cities and communities through: 1. Local Employment: Creating jobs in production, distribution, and marketing, enhancing community resilience and stability. 2. Eco-friendly Practices: Using sustainable packaging and sourcing, reducing waste and promoting environmental sustainability. 3. Healthy Living: Offering nutritious snacks to encourage healthy eating habits among school children. 4. Community Engagement: Collaborating with schools, parents, and community leaders to promote healthy lifestyles and environmental responsibility. 5. Reduced Environmental Impact: Minimizing transportation and supporting local agriculture to lower our carbon footprint.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Bornbalanced+ is dedicated to ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns through our comprehensive approach. We source our ingredients locally, supporting local agriculture and reducing transportation emissions. Our snacks are produced using eco-friendly methods, and we are committed to progressively adopting sustainable packaging solutions to minimize environmental impact. By educating students, parents, and school staff about the importance of responsible consumption, we encourage a culture of sustainability within our communities. Our commitment to a circular economy means that we prioritize recycling, reducing waste, and maximizing resource efficiency at every stage of our production and distribution process. Through these efforts, we contribute significantly to promoting responsible consumption and production.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Bornbalanced+ is dedicated to combating climate change by incorporating sustainable practices throughout our operations. We source our ingredients locally to reduce carbon emissions associated with transportation. Our packaging is designed to be eco-friendly, utilizing biodegradable and recyclable materials to minimize waste. Additionally, we implement energy-efficient processes in our production facilities and promote the use of renewable energy sources where possible. By educating our team and the community about sustainable practices and the importance of environmental stewardship, we foster a culture of climate action. Our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and promoting sustainable development ensures that Bornbalanced+ actively contributes to the global fight against climate change and its impacts.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Bornbalanced+ strongly contributes to the goal of conserving and sustainably using oceans, seas, and marine resources by reducing plastic waste. Our commitment to eco-friendly packaging solutions directly addresses the issue of plastic pollution, which significantly harms marine life and ecosystems. By minimizing the use of single-use plastics and opting for biodegradable or recyclable materials, we help decrease the amount of waste that ends up in the seas. Additionally, our educational initiatives emphasize the importance of responsible waste disposal and the impact of plastic on marine environments. By fostering a culture of sustainability and awareness, we contribute to the preservation of marine resources and the overall health of our oceans.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Bornbalanced+ contributes significantly to the goal of protecting, restoring, and promoting the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems by prioritizing sustainable sourcing and production methods. We work with local distributors to source fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring that the agricultural practices support biodiversity and soil health. Our commitment to eco-friendly packaging reduces landfill waste, helping to prevent land degradation. Additionally, our educational programs will emphasize the importance of sustainable land use and biodiversity conservation, fostering a sense of environmental stewardship among students and their communities. By integrating these practices into our operations, we help combat desertification, halt biodiversity loss, and promote the restoration and sustainable management of forests and other ecosystems.

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

3

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Bornbalanced+ is committed to fostering and strengthening partnerships that drive sustainable development. We collaborate with local schools, farmers, distributors, and community organizations to create a comprehensive network that supports our mission. By working with local farmers, we ensure a steady supply of fresh, nutritious ingredients while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Our partnerships with schools help us reach children directly, providing them with healthy snacks and education on nutrition. Additionally, we engage with environmental organizations to implement eco-friendly packaging solutions and reduce waste. These collaborations will enable us to leverage diverse expertise and resources, creating a scalable and impactful model for improving child nutrition and sustainability. Through these strategic partnerships, we aim to build resilient infrastructures and promote inclusive, sustainable growth in our communities.

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.

4

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

5

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.

3

05.08 Justification

1. New Product Category (Q5.02 & Q5.03): Our snacks combine high nutritional value with affordability and convenience. We use AI for nutritional analysis and supply chain optimization. 2. Product Improvement (Q5.05): Our snacks are healthier, more sustainable, and tailored for school children, addressing their nutritional needs and environmental concerns. 3. Product Range Extension: We introduce eco-friendly packaging and localized supply chains, ensuring our snacks are nutritious and environmentally responsible. 4. Meeting Unmet Demand (Q5.06): Our snacks are affordable and accessible, addressing the nutritional needs of children, especially those from low-income families.

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

Main Potential Competitors: 1. Local snack manufacturers 2. International snack brands 3. School canteens What Makes Us Stand Out: 1. Affordability: Priced for accessibility, especially for low-income families. 2. Nutritional Value: High-quality, locally sourced ingredients. 3. Sustainability: Eco-friendly packaging and local supply chains. 4. Educational Component: Programs to promote healthy eating habits.

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

Yes, we are initiating actions within our community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs. Here are a few examples: 1. Entrepreneurial Training: Every team member, including females, receives comprehensive entrepreneurial training to start and manage their own businesses. 2. Mentorship Programs: We are establishing programs where experienced female entrepreneurs guide and support aspiring female business owners. 3. Workshops and Seminars: Regular sessions address challenges faced by female entrepreneurs, providing strategies for success. 4. Networking Opportunities: We are leveraging our network to help upcoming entrepreneurs, including female entrepreneurs to build valuable relationships.