Nigeria - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Revolutionizing agriculture with climate-smart techniques, renewable energy, and market access to produce year-round vegetables, reduce post-harvest losses, and empower local farmers. Ensuring affordable, nutritious food and sustainable farming.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Our project is designed to revolutionize vegetable farming in Nigeria by addressing the challenges of seasonal supply, climate impact and post-harvest losses. Utilizing precision farming techniques, hydroponics and green houses, we shall produce fresh vegetables throughout the year at cheap prices thereby reducing reliance on seasonality. This approach ensures that pests and diseases do not reach our plants while minimizing pollution. To fight against post-harvest losses, we will put up solar powered cold storage facilities for perishable farm produce so as to maintain their quality and reduce wastage. Also, we shall produce high-quality seedlings for farmers and provide affordable cold storage rentals to local farmers and market gardeners. Our vision includes training youths and women on climate-smart agriculture, creating farm hubs where participants can co-own and operate farms as well as developing a market platform for more than 15,000 farmers.

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

The major concern among us is the incessant shortages and costly prices of main vegetables during Nigeria’s dry season which are caused by climate change, poor storage system and significant post-harvest losses. This is because the supply of tomatoes, peppers and leafy greens such as spinach, cabbage etc. reduces drastically due to high temperatures and droughts that are experienced during this period which is October through April. A survey by SBMIntel revealed that 79% of Nigerian farmers were severely affected by drought and flooding in 2020, leading to major disruptions in food supply. Moreover, inadequate storage facilities worsen the situation with pest and diseases causing up to 50% yield losses. This jeopardizes national food security, raises costs of food commodities and denies vulnerable groups the right to a balanced diet. Our project aims at ensuring perennial supply of fresh, cheap vegetables using high-tech agriculture methods and innovative storage systems.

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

1. 24/7 Fresh Vegetable: Our innovation ensures availability of fresh healthy vegetables round the year through precision farming in green house and hydroponics. 2. Community Development: Based on empowerment, we will establish community farm hubs for training and developing youths, local farmers and women across the state on modern farming and agri-business for them to co-own and manage the farms. This model promotes the solidarity of the community, provides potential for self-employment and can support local economies. 3. Elimination of Post-Harvest Wastage: Our solar cold storage units will significantly reduce post-harvest losses enabling local farmers to store for longer making it possible to sell produce at better prices leading to improved livelihoods. 4. Sustainable practices: With the use of precision farming; we can use resources wisely, as a result saving water, improving productivity and reducing pollution. 5. Contributing 10% of profits to education initiatives.

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

1. Small-scale and commercial farmers in rural and urban areas, struggling with seasonal production limitations, post-harvest losses, and market access. Our training, storage solutions and farming innovations will greatly enhance their productivity and income. 2. Aspiring young entrepreneurs and women interested in farming and are eager to learn modern and sustainable farming practices. We hope to furnish both with the knowledge and tools they need to be economically and socially empower themselves. 3. Urban and under-served communities faced with inconsistent supply and high prices of vegetables like pepper and tomatoes. Our year-round production will provide this communities access to fresh veggies at a pocket friendly price. 4. Educational Institutions and training centers that seek to incorporate hand-on modern agricultural education in their curricula. We have hands-on training programs that allow students to acquire experience and entrepreneurship in sustainable agriculture.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2022-03-22

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

12

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

4

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

1. Dr. Olalekan Olaniyi: Agronomist with 10+ years of experience in vegetable production 2. Dr. Semeton Amosu: Horticultural researcher with 12+ years of experience 3. Miss Afolake Baiyewu: Data Analyst with 5+ years experience 4. Mr. Samson Ogbole: Hydroponics expert with 9+ years of experience 5. Mr. Omosolape Akeem: Agricultural economist with 8+ years of experience 6. Mrs. Tope Owolabi: Farm Manager with 10+ years experience in farm operations and crop management 7. Mr. Aina Samson: ICT specialist with 12+ years of experience 8. Mr. Lawrence Opeyemi: Investment Banker with 12+ years of experience 9. Mrs. Adesina Nofisat: Agronomist with 5+ years experience in extension service 10. Mr. Akinwale Afeez: Solar energy solutions specialist with 7+ years of experience 11. Mr. Owolabi Isiak: Education specialist with 8+ years of experience in curriculum development 12. Mrs. Gbadamosi Fadilat: Food Processing Specialist with 5+ years experience in food technology, processing & packaging.

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

https://linkedin.com/in/olabode-omotunde-ibijola

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

We are using novel strategies to ensure we eradicate poverty for our host community, farmers in our hub and those within our grasp. - Farmers: year-round production and efficient storage facility, a decision to focus on high end crops and access markets with high purchasing power. - Host Community: teach on how to deploy basic technology for improved yield per square meter, provide access to credit facilities for growing, access to high market and provide job opportunities within our farm hubs.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

We envision a world where food production is not seasonal because hunger is not and our motto is; "Growing a Future Without Hunger" - Farmers: growing healthy food consistently and ensuring it is affordable and available to everyone and anyone. - Host Community: teach simple ways to preserve food and ensure no food waste.

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

Food for us is not just to end hunger but it is our body's first and most effective mechanism against diseases and foundation for inherited herd immunity. On this note, we will constantly monitor the Brix score of our products to ensure they are healthy as they should be, we adopt organic practices and also take our crops for periodic nutritional analysis to ensure they are healthy as they should be.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Our startup will contribute to the Quality Education goal (SDG 4) by allocating 10% of our profits to provide access to quality education for children in underserved communities. We will offer scholarships, educational materials, and support for schools in rural areas, ensuring that students have the resources they need to succeed. Additionally, we will organize hands-on training programs for youths and women in climate-smart agriculture and hydroponics, equipping them with valuable skills and knowledge for sustainable livelihoods. By creating learning opportunities and fostering a culture of lifelong education, our startup will help bridge the education gap and empower future generations.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

3

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Our startup will contribute to the Clean Water and Sanitation goal (SDG 6) by implementing sustainable water management practices in our agricultural processes. By using hydroponics, a soil-less farming method, we significantly reduce water usage compared to traditional farming. This method recycles water through a closed-loop system, minimizing waste and ensuring efficient use of water resources. Additionally, our greenhouses are designed to capture and utilize rainwater, further reducing dependence on external water sources. We also promote organic farming practices, which reduce pollution from chemical run-offs, thus protecting local water bodies from contamination. Through our training programs, we educate local farmers and communities on sustainable water management and conservation techniques, fostering broader adoption of practices that ensure the availability and sustainable management of water for all.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

4

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 startup will contribute to the Decent Work and Economic Growth goal (SDG 8) by creating sustainable employment opportunities, fostering entrepreneurship, and enhancing agricultural productivity. Our project generates jobs directly within our operations and indirectly through training programs that empower youths and women in smart farming practices. Additionally, by producing high-quality seedlings and renting cold storage facilities, we support local farmers and market gardeners, boosting their productivity and income. This inclusive approach promotes sustained economic growth and decent work for all, particularly in underserved communities.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Our startup will contribute to the Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure goal (SDG 9) by implementing precision farming techniques and hydroponic systems to create resilient agricultural infrastructure. We will foster innovation through the use of renewable energy solutions, such as solar-powered cold storage, to enhance productivity and sustainability. Additionally, our project will promote inclusive industrialization by training and employing local youths and women, thus empowering underserved communities and fostering economic growth. The use of modular greenhouses and solar-powered cold rooms means that the project can be scaled up or down based on available resources and community needs. This flexibility allows us to replicate the model in different regions, adapting to local conditions and driving long-term positive impact. This comprehensive approach ensures that our infrastructure and practices are both sustainable and scalable, driving long-term positive impact.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

GreenHub Nigeria will contribute to the Reduced Inequalities goal (SDG 10) by: 1. By creating jobs in agriculture and technology, we will provide economic opportunities for underserved communities, helping to bridge the income gap. 2. Ensuring fair compensation for all employees and partners, promoting economic equity. 3. Year-round production of affordable, healthy vegetables ensures that even low-income families have access to nutritious food. 4. Offering affordable cold storage solutions to local farmers helps reduce post-harvest losses, ensuring they can compete fairly in the market. 5. Actively engaging local communities to ensure our services meet their needs, fostering a sense of ownership and inclusion. 6. Prioritizing initiatives that support aspiring female participants during our training, providing them with the tools and resources needed to succeed in agribusiness.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

GreenHub Nigeria will contribute to the Sustainable Cities and Communities goal (SDG 11) by: 1. Developing and promoting sustainable urban agriculture practices, increasing food security and green spaces in cities. 2. Implementing renewable energy solutions, reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality in urban areas. 3. Designing and building sustainable infrastructure, including green buildings and eco-friendly facilities. 4. Fostering community engagement and empowerment through our trainings. 5. Partnering with local governments and stakeholders, supporting the development of sustainable and resilient cities.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

GreenHub Nigeria will contribute to the Responsible Consumption and Production goal (SDG 12) by: 1. Promoting sustainable agriculture practices, reducing waste and environmental impact. 2. Implementing circular economy principles, encouraging reuse and recycling. 3. Developing and using eco-friendly products and packaging, reducing plastic waste. 4. Educating and training on sustainable consumption and production practices. 5. Encouraging responsible resource management, reducing food waste and promoting efficient use of resources. 6. Fostering partnerships and collaborations to promote sustainable practices throughout the value chain.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Our protected agriculture is one of the adaptive methods for being pro-climate with our unique climate-smart designs. To increase carbon sequestration on our farm, we will have tree planted around the green houses, in addition we shall reduce carbon footprints that would have come from storage of produce and transportation of produce from rural farms to the cities by situating our farm close to the cities and peri-urban areas which ensures our farms mitigate the impact of climate change.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

2

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Our startup will contribute to this goal by planting a tree beside each of our greenhouses and strategic places on our farm sites which helps to absorb carbon dioxide to slow the rate of climate change and clean the air of pollutants and particulate matter. Therefore, making our environment safe and eco-friendly.

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

GreenHub Nigeria will contribute to the Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions goal (SDG 16) through the following ways: 1. Our comprehensive training for youths and women empowers marginalized groups, promoting social inclusion and economic stability. This helps alleviate poverty and reduce socio-economic disparities, fostering peaceful communities. 2. By creating a market platform for over 15,000 farmers to buy and sell their products, we ensure fair trade practices and equitable access to markets, reducing exploitation and fostering trust among community members. 3. We will actively involve local communities in decision-making processes, ensuring their needs and perspectives are considered, which strengthens social cohesion and institutional trust. 4. We will partner with government agencies and private institutions to enhance our capacity for effective governance, promoting transparency and accountability at all levels.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

GreenHub Nigeria will contribute to the Partnerships for the Goal (SDG 17) by: 1. Collaborating with governments, NGOs, and private sectors to achieve sustainable development. 2. Mobilizing resources, expertise, and technology to support sustainable development projects. 3. Fostering international cooperation and multi stakeholder partnerships to address global challenges. 4. Promoting sustainable development practices that aligns with national and global standards. 5. Encouraging knowledge sharing and innovation within the industry. 6. Supporting capacity building and technology transfer to enhance sustainable development capabilities.

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

4

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.

6

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

5

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.

4

05.08 Justification

Using precision farming and hydroponics systems, the project employ advanced agriculture technologies that allows for efficient use of resources and improve crop yield and quality. These technologies are not prevalent in the landscape of Nigeria, so our strategy is rare in the country. In order to improve existing solutions our project involves controlled environment agriculture (greenhouses) and renewable energy solutions (solar powered cold rooms). This innovation ensures getting year-long vegetables, seasons that never change and low post harvest losses. The project can be scaled according to the resources available and the needs of the communities and hence it can be replicated in other locations using methods such as modular greenhouses and solar powered cold rooms. Free training on modern agriculture will provide job opportunities in agriculture and spark entrepreneurship in youths and women. This allows our commitment to capacity building and community development.

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

Our primary competitors for green products include Sfarm Lab, BIC Farms Concepts and several more. Sfarm Lab leverages soilless farming to drive agriculture and BIC Farms Concepts develops efficient aquaponics and hydroponics systems but both concentrate on South-West region of Nigeria. Our startup stands out due to our unique focus on the Eastern and Northern regions of Nigeria, where the need for innovative agricultural solutions is critical. Our use of precision farming, hydroponics, and organic farming practices positions us as a formidable force in sustainable agriculture. We also offer end-to-end farming solutions, solar-powered cold storage, high-quality seedlings, trainings, and market platforms, creating a comprehensive ecosystem for farmers. Our project is not just about growing food; it's about growing hope, opportunities, and a BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR NIGERIA.

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

Conducting specialized training sessions for women on local production of vegetables such as Pumpkin-leaves (Ugwu), Ewedu, Amaranthus and Celosia. They are also trained on sack farming in situations where land space is limited. These sessions are designed to equip women with the skills and knowledge needed to start and manage their own agricultural businesses on a small scale from their homes.