Tanzania - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Circular Roach Protein: Convert food scraps into insect protein for long-term use in animal nutrition. Stop waste, plant food for the future.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Addressing food waste and the increasing need for sustainable animal feed, Circular Roach Protein is a trailblazing insect protein producer. Food leftovers are transformed into a nutrient-rich insect protein source by using cockroaches' innate recycling ability. Our innovative approach involves: Upcycling Food Waste: We partner with businesses and households to collect organic waste streams. Next-Gen Roach Farming: We utilize efficient and humane vertical farming systems to cultivate cockroaches specifically for protein production. Sustainable Protein Production: Our roaches efficiently convert waste into a high-protein meal for poultry, fish, and other animals, reducing reliance on traditional protein sources like soy and fishmeal. Circular Roach Protein offers a triple win: Reduced Waste: We divert tons of organic waste from landfills, promoting a circular economy. Sustainable Feed: We provide a high-quality, eco-friendly protein alternative to meet the growing demand for animal

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

Circular Roach Protein is trying to solve two main problems: 1. Food Waste: Landfills are overflowing with organic waste, and Circular Roach Protein diverts tons of this waste by upcycling it into feed. This promotes a circular economy where waste becomes a resource. 2. Sustainable Protein Source: The demand for animal feed is growing, but traditional sources like soy and fishmeal have environmental drawbacks. Circular Roach Protein offers a sustainable, high-protein insect alternative to meet this demand.

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

Circular Roach Protein offers several significant benefits for a more sustainable food system: Reduces Food Waste: By upcycling organic waste into feed, Circular Roach Protein diverts tons of material from landfills, reducing methane emissions and strain on waste management systems. Sustainable Protein Source: Cockroaches are incredibly efficient at converting waste into protein. This reduces reliance on resource-intensive protein sources like soy and fishmeal, which can contribute to deforestation and overfishing. Promotes Circular Economy: Circular Roach Protein embodies the principles of a circular economy by transforming waste into a valuable resource. This approach benefits businesses and households looking to reduce their environmental impact. Reduced Environmental Impact: Circular Roach Protein production requires less land and water compared to traditional protein sources.

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

Circular Roach Protein targets two primary customer segments: Feed Producers and Farmers: - We offer a high-quality, sustainable protein meal for use in poultry, fish, and other animal feed formulations. This benefits feed producers by providing a reliable and eco-friendly protein source to meet growing demand. - Farmers benefit from healthier animals due to the nutrient-rich properties of roach protein, potentially leading to improved productivity and reduced reliance on antibiotics. Waste Management Companies and Organizations: - We offer a unique solution for diverting organic waste streams away from landfills. This benefits waste management companies by providing a valuable service and potentially reducing their reliance on landfills. - Organizations like restaurants, supermarkets, and municipalities can benefit from reducing their environmental impact and potentially lowering waste disposal costs.

01.05 When was your company established?

2023-03-28

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

3

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

2

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

Theresia James Mushi : An Aquaculturist with a background in alternative feed production. Theresia James is instrumental in optimizing our roach farming operations for efficiency and ensuring the well-being of our insects. Bethania Nyansime Mwakalomba: A seasoned entrepreneur with experience in logistics and supply chain management. Bethania Nyansime oversees the smooth operation of our waste collection, roach farming, and protein production processes. Dominic Yasini Mwenga: A marketing wiz with a passion for sustainability. Dominic Yasini leads our efforts to raise awareness about Circular Roach Protein and educate customers about the benefits of insect-based protein.

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

https://www.instagram.com/saqua_company

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

l) Farming

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Circular Roach Protein contributes to the No Poverty goal, though Job Creation: Our operations require personnel for waste collection, roach farming, protein processing, and marketing. This creates new job opportunities, potentially in areas with high poverty rates. Empowering Small-Scale Farmers: We can explore partnerships with small-scale farmers, particularly in different regions, to establish mini roach farms and collect local organic waste. This provides them with a new income stream and empowers them to participate in the circular economy. Improved Animal Nutrition: Our high-quality protein can potentially improve the health and productivity of livestock in developing regions. This can lead to increased food security and income generation for small-scale farmers. Waste Management Solutions: By offering waste management solutions through organic waste diversion, we can alleviate pressure on overburdened waste systems in developing areas.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

6

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Increased Feed Availability: Our insect-based protein offers a high-quality, alternative protein source to traditional options like soy and fishmeal. This helps meet the rising demand for animal feed, particularly in regions facing food insecurity. Improved Feed Efficiency: Studies suggest insects can convert feed into protein more efficiently than conventional livestock. This translates to producing more animal protein from less feed, potentially stretching resources further and feeding more animals. Reduced Food Waste Reliance: Circular Roach Protein tackles food waste, a major contributor to global hunger. By diverting food scraps to feed our roaches, we lessen the pressure on food production systems and ensure more food reaches human consumption. Supporting Sustainable Livestock Production: Our protein source promotes a more sustainable way to raise livestock.

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

Nutrient Rich: Insects like roaches can be a surprisingly good source of protein, essential fats, vitamins, and minerals Sustainable Protein Source: Livestock farming has a significant environmental impact. Roach protein production requires minimal space and resources, making it a more sustainable way to meet protein demands Reduced Environmental Impact: Circular protein production implies using waste streams like food scraps to feed the roaches. This reduces reliance on conventional agriculture and its associated environmental impact.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

Science and Innovation: Circular Roach Protein introduces students to the concept of entomophagy and circular economy principles. This can spark curiosity and encourage exploration of cutting-edge solutions in food production and sustainability. Cross-curricular Learning: Circular Roach Protein allows for integration of various subjects. Science lessons can delve into insect biology and nutrition. Math classes can explore efficient protein production and resource management. Social studies can discuss food security and cultural perspectives on insects as food. Problem-solving and Critical Thinking: Students can explore the challenges and opportunities associated with Circular Roach Protein. This encourages critical thinking, research skills, and discussion of ethical considerations surrounding food production. Project-based Learning: Develop projects around Circular Roach Protein. Students can research its nutritional value, sustainability benefits, or cultural acceptance.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Empowering Women in Agriculture: If roach farming becomes a viable protein source, it could create new agricultural opportunities. In many societies, women play a significant role in food production. By promoting roach farming as a sustainable practice, you might empower women to participate in this new industry and gain economic independence. Improved Nutrition for Women and Girls: Protein deficiency is a bigger concern for women and girls in some regions. If Circular Roach Protein becomes a readily available and affordable source of this crucial nutrient, it could improve their overall health and well-being. Reduced Time Spent on Food Purchase: Traditionally, women often have the primary responsibility for food acquisition. If roach protein becomes a reliable food source, it could potentially free up time for women to pursue education, employment, or other activities.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

Reduced Water Usage: Compared to traditional livestock farming, insect farming, including roach farming, requires significantly less water [invalid URL removed]. This is because roaches need less water to survive and grow compared to animals like cows or pigs. Waste Management: Circular Roach Protein production incorporates using waste streams like food scraps to feed the roaches. This reduces the amount of organic waste going to landfills, which can contaminate water sources when they decompose.

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

Reduced Reliance on Resource-intensive Agriculture: Livestock farming, a major source of protein, requires significant resources like land, water, and feed. By providing an alternative protein source, Circular Roach Protein can help reduce pressure on traditional agriculture, potentially freeing up resources that could be used for renewable energy production. Potential for Biogas Production: Roach manure can be used to produce biogas, a renewable source of energy. While this is still an emerging technology, it has the potential to create a closed-loop system where roach waste is converted into energy used to power the roach farm itself.

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

Job Creation: A new industry focused on roach farming, processing, and distribution would create new jobs in various sectors. This could include opportunities in roach breeding, farm management, processing plant operations, logistics, and marketing. Economic Opportunities in New Markets: Circular Roach Protein could open doors to new markets, both domestically and internationally. This can create economic opportunities for entrepreneurs, farmers, and distributors involved in the production and sale of this alternative protein source. Boost to Local Economies: If roach farming can be established regionally, it could revitalize rural economies by providing new sources of income and potentially attracting investments in processing facilities and infrastructure.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Novel Protein Source: Circular Roach Protein represents an innovative approach to protein production. It disrupts traditional livestock farming methods and introduces a new insect-based protein source. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize the food industry. Advancements in Insect Farming Technology: Large-scale roach farming necessitates innovation in areas like insect breeding, farm management, and waste processing. This can lead to development of new technologies and practices that can be applied to other insect farming sectors as well. Infrastructure for a Sustainable Food System: Building a circular roach protein industry requires investment in infrastructure for breeding facilities, processing plants, and potentially waste processing units for bio-gas production. This can contribute to the development of more sustainable food production systems.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Improved Nutrition in Vulnerable Populations: Protein deficiency is a concern in some regions. If Circular Roach Protein becomes a readily available and affordable source of high-quality protein, it could improve the nutritional status of vulnerable populations, potentially leading to better health outcomes and increased productivity. Economic Opportunities in Underdeveloped Regions: Roach farming could be established in regions with limited resources for traditional livestock farming. This can create new income streams for local communities and contribute to economic development. More Affordable Protein Source: If produced efficiently, Circular Roach Protein has the potential to be a more affordable protein source compared to traditional meat options. This could improve food security and access to nutritious food for low-income families.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

Reduced Waste and Environmental Impact: Insect farming generally produces less waste compared to traditional livestock farming. Roaches specifically require less space and water, and their waste can potentially be converted into biogas for energy. This can contribute to a more circular economy in cities, reducing reliance on landfills and waste management. Urban Agriculture Potential: Roach farming can be adapted to urban environments. Vertical farming techniques can be used to create roach breeding facilities with minimal land footprint. This allows for protein production closer to consumption points, potentially reducing transportation needs. Improved Food Security: Urban areas often rely on external sources for food. Circular Roach Protein production within cities can contribute to local food security and reduce dependence on long-distance transportation of food supplies.

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

Reduced Environmental Impact: Compared to traditional livestock, roach farming uses significantly less land, water, and feed to produce protein. This translates to lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduced pressure on natural resources. Circular Economy: Your focus on using food scraps to feed the roaches exemplifies a circular economic approach. This reduces waste generation and promotes resource efficiency throughout the production cycle. Sustainable Protein Source: As the global demand for protein rises, roach protein offers a more sustainable alternative to conventional meat production. It can help meet nutritional needs without putting a strain on the environment.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Livestock farming is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane from enteric fermentation in ruminant animals. Roach farming produces significantly less methane compared to cows or sheep. Lower Land-Use Change: Traditional livestock farming often requires deforestation and habitat conversion for grazing land. Roach farming requires significantly less space and can be done in vertical farms, minimizing land-use change and its associated environmental impact. Resource Efficiency: Roaches require less water and feed to grow compared to livestock. This translates to lower water consumption and reduced pressure on agricultural land needed to produce animal feed.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

Reduced reliance on overfishing: As a sustainable protein source, Circular Roach Protein could potentially help reduce demand for fish, which can contribute to overfishing and damage to marine ecosystems. Minimize runoff from traditional agriculture: Livestock farming can contribute to water pollution through manure runoff. If Circular Roach Protein displaces some traditional meat consumption, it could indirectly reduce this type of pollution.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

Reduced Pressure on Land Use: Livestock farming is a major driver of deforestation and habitat conversion for grazing land. By providing an alternative protein source, Circular Roach Protein can help reduce the demand for land used for traditional livestock production. This can indirectly protect natural habitats and biodiversity. Minimized Pollution from Agriculture: Livestock farming can contribute to land degradation through soil erosion and pollution from manure runoff. If Circular Roach Protein displaces some traditional meat consumption, it could lessen the environmental impact of these practices. Promote Sustainable Practices: The use of food scraps for roach feed reduces pressure on agricultural land and resources needed to grow conventional animal feed. This can indirectly contribute to more sustainable land management practices.

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

6

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Economic Development: A new industry focused on roach protein production could create jobs and economic opportunities in some regions. This economic empowerment can contribute to greater stability and potentially reduce conflict linked to resource scarcity. Transparency and Sustainability: Building a responsible Circular Roach Protein industry requires strong institutions that enforce regulations and ensure fair practices throughout the production chain. This can promote transparency, accountability, and good governance. Focus on Community Involvement: Encourage local participation in roach farming, especially for small-scale farmers. This fosters a sense of ownership and can contribute to social justice within communities. Sustainable Practices: Prioritize environmentally friendly practices throughout the production cycle.

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Collaboration for Innovation: Developing a successful and sustainable Circular Roach Protein industry requires collaboration between various stakeholders. This includes researchers, entrepreneurs, policymakers, farmers, and distributors. By fostering partnerships between these groups, innovation and knowledge sharing can be accelerated. Public-Private Partnerships: Partnerships between public and private entities can be crucial for developing regulations, funding research, and promoting the adoption of Circular Roach Protein. This collaboration can ensure the industry grows in a responsible and sustainable manner. Global Cooperation: Sharing knowledge and expertise in Roach Protein production can benefit both developed and developing countries. International partnerships can play a vital role in promoting technology transfer and capacity building, especially in regions facing food security challenges.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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.

6

06.05 The product/service could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

6

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

6

06.07 The product/service is a new version of an old product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.08 Justification for my startup

Disruptive Protein Source: Circular Roach Protein challenges traditional livestock farming by introducing a new, insect-based protein source. This disrupts the status quo of meat production and offers a potentially more sustainable alternative. Focus on Circular Economy: The use of food scraps to feed the roaches embodies the principles of a circular economy. It reduces waste generation and promotes resource efficiency throughout the production cycle. Potential for Urban Production: Unlike traditional livestock, roaches can be farmed vertically with minimal land footprint. This opens doors for protein production closer to consumption points in urban areas. Reduced Environmental Impact: Compared to conventional protein sources, roach production has the potential to significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions, lessen water usage, and require less land. Nutrient Rich: Roaches can be a surprising source of protein, essential fats, vitamins, and minerals.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Other Insect Protein Producers: This includes companies farming crickets, mealworms, black soldier flies, or other insects as a sustainable protein source. Plant-Based Protein Alternatives: With the rise of plant-based diets, companies producing tofu, tempeh, seitan, legumes, and other plant-based protein sources would also be considered competitors. Focus on Circular Economy: If your process effectively utilizes food scraps to feed the roaches, you can emphasize a more closed-loop system compared to competitors who might rely on dedicated feed production. Nutrient Profile: If your research shows roaches offer a particularly good protein, fat, vitamin, or mineral profile compared to other insects, advertise this as a selling point. Target Specific Markets: Are you targeting athletes, environmentally conscious consumers, or regions facing protein deficiencies? A niche focus can help you stand out. Ethical Roach Farming Practices

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

- Host a panel discussion: Invite successful female entrepreneurs in the circular roach protein space to share their journeys - Partner with other organizations: Collaborate with groups that support women - Create a spotlight series: Feature interviews with female entrepreneurs on the community forum or social media channels - Organize a mentorship program: Connect aspiring female entrepreneurs with established leaders in the industry.