South Africa - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

The Agriculture and Water Demand Project aims to create jobs and conserve resources. This initiative seeks to fund youth training in agriculture and climate change, targeting historically excluded communities, including women and people with disabilities.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

With food and water security threatening the social stability of Southern Africa, it is crucial for the region to harness the collective energy of its youth. Young people play a pivotal role in agriculture, especially in ensuring that the nation has enough food. Agriculture offers significant prospects for meaningful employment among youth, and the country is in dire need of food producers. However, financial constraints often prevent young people from acquiring land and starting agricultural ventures on their own. This proposal suggests the establishment of a Youth in Agriculture & Water Leak Training Programme. The program aims to mentor and coach 160 to 300 young individuals, enabling them to obtain up to 6,000 hours of practical experience. Participants will receive accreditation in the agriculture and plumbing sectors through arrangements with local municipalities, with potential for later employment in private sector companies.

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

The training programmes focus on addressing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to create a positive chain reaction that improves the issues we face as South Africans. Both the Agriculture and Plumbing Training Programmes will cover the following SDGs: - Goal 1: No Poverty - Goal 2: Zero Hunger - Goal 4: Quality Education - Goal 5: Gender Equality - Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation - Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth - Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities - Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production The country is in serious need for food producers. Its farmers are ageing. There is limited access to land and resources among young people because of historical land ownership structures. Financial constraints often hinder young people from acquiring land and starting agricultural ventures on their own. Many young people haven't been exposed to modern agricultural practices and lack the business skills needed for successful farming.

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

The advantages of this initiative allows participants to demonstrate knowledge of interpersonal skills required in a business environment, understand basic economics and benefit from mentoring and coaching, which are crucial for the success and sustainability of emerging farmers and plumbers. The program can be implemented over five years, with the expectation that the project will be self-sustaining beyond this period. Skills Development and Capacity Building: This initiative aims to create a formally trained, hands-on mentoring and coaching environment for the development of youth and youth-owned businesses. Promotion of Economic Inclusion of Youth, Women, and People with Disabilities: The initiative actively facilitates and promotes access for previously disadvantaged young people to opportunities within the mainstream economy. Support for Youth-Owned Enterprises: The initiative aims to create and support youth-owned businesses emerging from the Business Incubator.

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

The main beneficiaries of this project are marginalized youth, especially those owning businesses, and the targeted groups include these young entrepreneurs and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. By focusing on localizing skill development, the project seeks to empower these targeted individuals and groups, reducing their reliance on government assistance and private sector philanthropy. This empowerment is intended to cultivate entrepreneurial thinking and self-reliance. To ensure the sustainability of business interventions, the program will integrate incubation and mentoring in the establishment of cooperatives and small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs). This approach aims to enhance the sustainability and profitability of youth-owned businesses. The project will partner with experienced farmers to provide trainee farmers with hands-on experiential learning.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-12-08

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.)

1) Joburg Water, as a partner, is involved in the implementation of water restrictions and by-law enforcement to manage water demand and supply. The partnership with stakeholders and Bantsho is to ensure effective water governance and management. 2) The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) as a partner with various stakeholders will promote entrepreneurship and assist Bantsho in building enterprises based on sound business principles, provide funding and support through various programs for the applicants to have sustainable economic prosperity. 3)The Southern African-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AHK Southern Africa) is a key partner for businesses offering a close network, additional business opportunities, access to an international network, information sessions, and company visits to connect decision-makers and stay updated on trends and business opportunities.

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

https://youtu.be/gSbqJYtYXk0

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

b) Materials (agriculture, fishing, chemical products, construction materials, containers and packaging, metals and mining, paper and forest products)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

This program effectively addresses SDG 1 by creating jobs, enhancing food security, promoting sustainable practices, fostering community development, reducing rural-urban migration, empowering vulnerable groups, and ensuring long-term economic stability. Training individuals in agricultural practices and water management equips them with highly employable skills, leading to increased job opportunities in farming, agribusiness, and water management sectors. Skilled workers can enhance agricultural productivity, leading to higher yields and better quality produce, which translates into higher income for farmers. By creating viable agricultural opportunities in rural areas, the program reduces the need for migration to urban areas in search of employment, addressing urban poverty and overpopulation issues. Programs specifically targeting vulnerable groups, including women and youth, ensure equal access to training and opportunities, reducing inequality and poverty.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

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

5

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

The agriculture and water demand programme aims to improve skills in sustainable farming and efficient water management, which directly addresses SDG 4 "Quality Education." By providing hands-on training and educational resources to unemployed people and recent graduates, the programme ensures inclusive and equitable quality education. Participants obtain practical knowledge and skills that improve their employability and contribute to sustainable development. This initiative promotes lifelong learning by bridging the gap between education and employment and providing individuals with the tools they need to flourish in the agriculture sector, so encouraging economic growth and environmental sustainability.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

The programme aims to empower individuals, with a specific focus on a 55% female participation rate, by giving necessary skills and training to those who are unemployed or have completed their education. This effort directly addresses SDG 5, "Gender Equality," by focusing on women's access to education and employment opportunities, hence reducing gender inequities. Women benefit from specialised training in agricultural and water management, which increases their economic independence and leadership potential. This inclusive strategy prepares women to participate equally to their communities and the larger economy, building a more equitable and sustainable future.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

The Agriculture and Water Demand Programme aims to provide jobless people and school graduates with skills in sustainable water management and agriculture, thereby supporting SDG 6 (Water and Sanitation). By providing participants with knowledge about effective water use in farming operations and promoting water-saving strategies, the course helps to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all, as described in SDG 6.

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

Our Agriculture and Water Demand Programme seeks to provide unemployed individuals and school leavers with fundamental expertise in sustainable agriculture and water resource management. This initiative is designed to directly support SDG 8, 'Decent Work and Economic Growth,' by nurturing entrepreneurship, stimulating inclusive economic development, and establishing pathways to meaningful employment within the agricultural sector. In doing so, we aim to advance sustainable development goals, foster greater socio-economic equity, and enhance resilience in local communities.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

4

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

We contribute to SDG 9 'Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure' through our Agriculture and Water Demand Programme by fostering innovation in agricultural practices and enhancing infrastructure resilience in water management. Through practical training and education, our program not only prepares individuals for employment but also cultivates a workforce capable of driving innovative solutions in agriculture, thereby supporting sustainable industrialization and fostering resilient infrastructure development. The program focuses on giving practical skills to individuals who are unemployed or have completed their education, thereby enhancing their employability. By promoting sustainable agricultural practices, the program contributes to innovation within the agriculture sector. Training in water management enhances infrastructure resilience, aligning with SDG 9's goal of promoting resilient infrastructure. The skilled workforce generated by the program supports sustainable industriali

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

The agriculture and water demand program can significantly contribute to addressing SDG 10, "Reduced Inequalities," by addressing economic inequalities by equipping unemployed individuals with practical skills in agriculture and water demand management. Through hands-on learning and mentorship, participants gain the knowledge and confidence necessary to enter or re-enter the workforce in these critical sectors. The program tackles social inequalities by fostering inclusivity and empowering marginalized groups such as minorities, women, and rural populations. By providing equal access to education and skill development in agriculture and water demand, regardless of background or previous opportunities, the initiative promotes social cohesion and strengthens community resilience. This approach not only enhances individual livelihoods but also contributes to building more equitable and integrated societies where everyone has a chance to thrive.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

2

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

By emphasizing water demand management, the program addresses critical issues such as water scarcity and pollution, thereby supporting the development of resilient cities capable of withstanding environmental challenges. and through targeted training in agriculture, participants learn sustainable farming practices that promote food security and reduce the ecological footprint of urban areas. Moreover, the program fosters community engagement and social cohesion by involving participants in urban agriculture initiatives. By establishing community gardens or green spaces, it promotes sustainable living practices and enhances the quality of life in urban settings. These initiatives not only beautify the urban landscape but also contribute to biodiversity conservation and climate resilience. The program not only addresses immediate employment needs but also fosters long-term sustainability, resilience, and inclusive growth in cities and communities.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

5

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Trainees must be educated on sustainable agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management. Participants learn methods that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote soil health. These practices not only mitigate the carbon footprint associated with traditional agriculture but also build resilience against the adverse impacts of climate change, such as droughts and extreme weather events. The program emphasizes how to optimize water use in agriculture through techniques like drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and water recycling. By reducing water wastage and improving irrigation efficiency, participants help conserve precious freshwater resources, crucial for ecosystems and human communities facing water scarcity exacerbated by climate change. Moreover, the skills acquired through the program empower individuals to implement climate-smart agricultural solutions in their communities, fostering local resilience to climate impacts. By pro

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

3

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

05.01 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

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

4

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.

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.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.08 Justification

By focusing on agriculture and water management, the program can equip youth with skills to address pressing community needs, such as food security and sustainable water usage. This can lead to the creation of enterprises that provide essential services and products, revitalizing local economies. The program can facilitate connections between trainees and local businesses, cooperatives, or government agencies working in the agriculture and water sectors. These linkages can help youth secure internships, apprenticeships, or even full-time employment opportunities upon completion of the training. In addition to technical skills, the program can incorporate soft skills training, such as financial management, communication, and problem-solving, further enhancing the participants' employability and entrepreneurial potential.

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

IrrigationWise Academy: Offers comprehensive irrigation training programs for agricultural and landscape irrigation industries, focusing on efficient water use and management Sustainable AgriTech Systems: Provides biodiversity incubation, agritech system manufacturing, and sustainable smart farming techniques to emerging farmers.

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

Our Agriculture and Water Demand Programme, comprising 55% women, is committed to promoting female entrepreneurship in our community. We will initiate actions by providing targeted training workshops in sustainable farming practices, water conservation, and business management specifically for women. Partnering with local financial institutions, we will facilitate access to microloans and grants tailored for female entrepreneurs. Additionally, we will establish a mentorship network connecting experienced female business leaders with aspiring women entrepreneurs. By fostering a supportive environment and addressing unique challenges faced by women in agriculture, we aim to empower them to lead successful enterprises, contributing to economic growth and sustainability in our community. Together, we can create a more inclusive and prosperous future.