Ghana - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Evnoia Cycle our Grocery Circular Economy program, is a holistic solution addressing food waste through surplus food rescue, educational outreach programs, food waste recycle and fostering urban agriculture through mini-greenhouses.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Our initiative aims to tackle the dual challenges of food waste and limited access to fresh produce in urban environments. By rescuing surplus food from farms and retailers and redistributing it to those in need, the program reduces food waste while also promoting urban agriculture through mini-greenhouses. These mini-greenhouses empower urban dwellers to cultivate their own fresh produce, reducing reliance on long-distance transportation and fostering self-sufficiency. Through educational outreach and closed-loop systems for composting food scraps, the initiative empowers communities to build resilient, sustainable food systems at the local level.

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

Food wastage is progressively becoming a part of the Ghanaian lifestyle. It forms about 68% of municipal solid waste in the country. 3.2 million tons of food is either lost or wasted along the supply chain in Ghana, costing about 762.32 billion in Ghanaian cedis (GH₵) annually. Food waste in landfills produces methane, a greenhouse gas that is 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Consequently, urban food security is a function of the access to food and food waste management. About 27% of the population in Greater Accra is food insecure. Farmers’ lack of direct access to markets, poor storage practices leading to post harvest losses of perishable produce, bad road networks and the existence of middlemen are all contributing factors to food waste

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

Food Waste Reduction: It tackles the significant problem of food waste by rescuing surplus food from farms and retailers, ensuring that perfectly good food reaches consumers instead of being discarded. Environmental Impact: By reducing food waste, the program helps mitigate the environmental impact associated with food production, transportation, and disposal, including greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion. Urban Agriculture: It promotes urban agriculture through mini-greenhouses, providing a solution for urban dwellers to access fresh produce locally and reduce reliance on long-distance transportation, thereby lowering carbon emissions and promoting self-sufficiency. Community Empowerment: By offering educational workshops and resources for urban agriculture, the initiative empowers communities to take control of their food sources, fostering resilience and sustainability at the local level.

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

Our target audience includes : professionals and families in urban areas seeking convenience, time-saving solutions and hygienic food produce ; the elderly and those with limited mobility who benefit from home delivery services; health conscious and eco-enthusiasts; farmers who lack direct access to markets; catering and restaurant businesses who produce a lot of food waste

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-01-22

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

1

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

0

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

Name: Karrin Peprah-Boateng Skills: Marketing, Business Development, Product Development Experience: Profish, Eliza Travel and Tours, Name: Emmanuel Tetteh-Apeku Skills: Logistics, Supply Chain Management and Optimization Experience: Profish, Wamegrow, Techaide

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

https://evnoia.bubbleapps.io/version-test/ai_landing_page_1?

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

l) Agriculture

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

By sourcing directly from local farmers, the business ensures fair prices and stable demand for their produce, improving their economic stability and ensuring their surplus food does not go to waste and end in a loss. Moreover, through partnerships with the locals to establish mini-greenhouses we help create jobs in urban areas, reducing poverty by providing sustainable livelihoods.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Our grocery circular economy business model contributes to the "Zero Hunger" goal by creating a sustainable and profitable supply chain that sources directly from local farmers, reducing costs and ensuring a steady flow of fresh, nutritious food. By implementing waste reduction strategies and offering bulk and package-free options, we lower operational costs and provide affordable prices for consumers. The model focuses on expanding market reach through mobile markets and community-based stores, increasing food accessibility. Additionally, educational programs on nutrition and sustainable practices foster customer loyalty and community engagement, driving business growth while addressing food security.

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

5

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

Our business model promotes good health and well-being by providing consistent access to fresh, locally sourced, and organic produce, which enhances nutritional intake. Additionally, by supporting local farmers and reducing the carbon footprint, the model contributes to a healthier environment, indirectly supporting overall community well-being.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

4

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

This business model spearheaded by a female founder, significantly advancing gender equality by exemplifying leadership and fostering inclusivity. Furthermore, the focus on community education programs not only promotes health and sustainability but also empowers women with the knowledge and skills necessary for economic independence and leadership roles within their communities.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Waste reduction strategies, such as composting organic waste and offering package-free products, decrease the burden on landfills and prevent contamination of water sources.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

5

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

By partnering with recycling companies food waste could be recycled into fuel and biogas contributing to clean energy production.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

5

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

The Evnoia Cycle promotes sustainable farming practices, enhancing productivity and income potential for farmers. Secondly, the model creates jobs within its own operations, from retail and logistics to sustainability roles, providing employment opportunities and skills development for local communities. Thirdly, through partnerships with local businesses and suppliers, the model strengthens the local economy by promoting entrepreneurship and supporting small-scale enterprises.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Our business model leverages technology to drive innovation and efficiency across its operations. Utilizing advanced technologies such as data analytics for demand forecasting and inventory management optimizes supply chain logistics, reducing food waste and operational costs. Implementing smart sensors and IoT devices in storage and refrigeration units would ensure optimal temperature control and energy efficiency, contributing to sustainability goals. Online platforms and mobile applications enhance customer engagement by offering personalized shopping experiences, promoting sustainable choices, and facilitating seamless transactions. Furthermore, the integration of blockchain technology enhances transparency and traceability throughout the supply chain, ensuring ethical sourcing and quality control. By harnessing technology, the business not only improves operational efficiency but also enhances customer satisfaction and promotes sustainable practices, driving in

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

4

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

By sourcing produce and products locally, the model reduces transportation emissions and supports regional economies, contributing to a more sustainable urban environment. Implementing waste reduction strategies such as composting organic waste and offering package-free options minimizes landfill waste and encourages responsible consumption habits among consumers. The model also supports community health by providing access to fresh, nutritious food through local markets and educational initiatives on healthy eating and sustainable living. Additionally, by engaging with local stakeholders, including farmers, suppliers, and residents, the business strengthens social cohesion and empowers communities to participate in sustainable practices

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Evnoia Cycle business model promotes responsible consumption and production by sourcing locally, offering package-free options, and implementing waste reduction strategies such as composting and recycling. By prioritizing sustainable practices and educating consumers about the environmental and social impacts of their choices, the model encourages mindful purchasing habits and reduces overall environmental footprint

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Through sourcing locally and promoting regional supply chains, the model reduces greenhouse gas emissions associated with long-distance transportation. Moreover this business emphasizes waste reduction and recycling, particularly through composting organic waste and reducing packaging materials, which mitigates methane emissions from landfills and conserves resources. Additionally, by educating consumers and stakeholders about sustainable practices and supporting environmentally friendly choices, the business fosters a culture of climate consciousness and encourages broader adoption of sustainable lifestyles.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

4

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

4

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

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

4

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

We foster partnerships with local farmers, suppliers, and producers to promote fair trade, support economic growth, and enhance community resilience. By working closely with non-profit organizations, government agencies, and sustainability initiatives, the model aligns its practices with global sustainability goals such as reducing food waste, promoting sustainable agriculture, and improving food security. These partnerships enable knowledge-sharing, innovation, and collective action towards creating a more sustainable and equitable food system. Moreover, the model engages with customers through educational programs and transparent communication, encouraging them to participate in sustainable consumption practices and support the broader goals of environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

6

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

5

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.

6

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

4

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

6

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

5

05.08 Justification

Unlike traditional grocery models, this business emphasizes local sourcing to support regional farmers and reduce food miles, thereby lowering carbon emissions and promoting economic resilience in local economies. Innovations such as waste reduction strategies, including composting and package-free options, set a new standard for reducing environmental impact while offering customers sustainable choices.

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

Our main competitors include Grow for Me, NokNok, and Complete Farmer.

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

N/A