Nigeria - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

An e-commerce platform dedicated to showcasing the best of Nigeria’s handcrafted products, From clothing to shoes and bags jewelry furniture skin and hair care products good items all made with ethically sourced materials. We support local entrepreneurs.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Koli: Empowering Nigerian Artisans & Sustainable E-commerce Koli is an innovative e-commerce platform dedicated to showcasing the best of Nigerian handcrafted products, while prioritizing sustainability, ethical sourcing, and social impact. By connecting local artisans with a global customer base, Koli aims to: 1. Preserve Cultural Heritage: Promote and preserve traditional Nigerian craftsmanship, supporting the country's rich cultural legacy. 2. Empower Artisans: Provide economic opportunities for local artisans, enabling them to improve their livelihoods and communities. 3. Sustainable Practices: Implement eco-friendly packaging, carbon offset programs, and responsible supply chain management. 4. Unique Products: Offer a curated selection of high-quality, handmade products including skin care, hair care, home décor furniture, shoes bags, clothing and much more 5. Community Building: Foster a community of customers, artisans, and partners, and sharing stories and culture.

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

Kolli addresses several critical issues within the artisan and entrepreneurial ecosystem in Nigeria. Firstly, it tackles the problem of limited market access for local artisans and small business owners, many of whom struggle to reach a wider audience due to lack of resources. By providing an e-commerce platform dedicated to showcasing Nigerian handcrafted products, we empower these artisans to grow their businesses and reach customers globally. Additionally, Kolli plays a significant role in economic empowerment, contributing directly to the livelihoods of craftsmen and women, and fostering economic growth within local communities. Our platform also helps preserve the rich cultural heritage of Nigerian craftsmanship by bringing traditional, unique products to the forefront of the market.

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. **Support for Local Artisans**: Many local artisans and entrepreneurs in Nigeria face challenges in reaching a broader market. They often lack the resources and platforms to showcase their work. Kolli provides them with a dedicated e-commerce platform, offering increased visibility and opportunities to grow their businesses. 2. **Economic Empowerment**: By supporting local artisans, Kolli helps stimulate the local economy. Purchasing handcrafted products directly contributes to the livelihoods of craftsmen and women, promoting economic stability and growth within communities. 3. **Preservation of Cultural Heritage**: Nigerian craftsmanship is rich in cultural heritage and traditions. By providing a platform for these unique products, Kolli helps preserve and promote Nigerian culture and craftsmanship

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

1. **Ethically Conscious Consumers:** Individuals who prioritize sustainable and ethically sourced products and are interested in the story behind what they purchase. 2. **Supporters of Local Artisans:** People who are keen on supporting local economies and have a particular interest in handcrafted goods from Nigeria. 3. **Eco-Friendly Shoppers:** Consumers who are enthusiastic about eco-friendly practices, including sustainable materials, packaging, and carbon offset programs. 4. **Cultural Enthusiasts:** Those who have an appreciation for unique and culturally rich products and are interested in the beauty and diversity of Nigerian craftsmanship. 5. **Expats and Diaspora Communities:** Nigerians living abroad or those with a connection to Nigeria who wish to support and stay connected to their heritage.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2021-03-11

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

3

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

3

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

Farida Ibrahim Atu is a visionary business leader and entrepreneur, serving as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Kolli. With a strong background in computer science, Farida brings a unique blend of technical expertise and business acumen to drive innovation and growth. As a seasoned entrepreneur, Farida has a proven track record of building and scaling successful ventures. Her passion for technology and entrepreneurship has led her to mentor and inspire numerous young professionals. Maryam Abubakar is a creative force to be reckoned with, serving as our Creative Director at Kolli. With a unique blend of artistic talent and business savvy, Maryam brings a holistic approach to our brand's visual identity and creative strategy. As a skilled graphic designer and photographer, Maryam has a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling through visuals. Her designs are both aesthetically stunning and thoughtfully crafted to resonate with our audience.

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?

h) IT (digital services, equipment and software)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

By providing a platform for local artisans to sell their handcrafted products, Koli significantly boosts their economic opportunities. These artisans often come from underprivileged backgrounds, and Koli helps them achieve financial stability and lift themselves out of poverty by giving them access to a broader market.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Increased income for artisans can lead to better nutritional choices and increased food security in their households. Additionally, some of the profits from Koli could potentially be reinvested into community projects, such as agricultural programs, which could improve local food production and availability.

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

Financial stability allows artisans to afford better healthcare and maintain healthier lifestyles. Moreover, Koli's commitment to eco-friendly and ethically sourced materials promotes a healthier environment, contributing to the overall well-being of the artisans and their communities.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

By supporting local artisans, Koli indirectly enables them to afford better educational opportunities for their children. Furthermore, Koli intends initiate educational programs in the near future and workshops to help artisans refine their skills and learn about sustainable practices, which will improve their craft and businesses.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Many artisans in Nigeria are women. By offering a platform for selling their products, Koli promotes gender equality by empowering female artisans, providing them with financial independence, and recognizing their contributions to the economy and society.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

4

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

By promoting eco-friendly practices, Koli indirectly supports sustainable water management and sanitation systems.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

5

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Kolli intends to start a carbon offset program which will contribute to the development of renewable energy sources and reduce carbon emissions. eco-friendly packaging contribute to climate action by reducing the platform's carbon footprint. Encouraging sustainable practices among artisans also plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change.

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

By supporting local artisans, Koli provides employment opportunities, ensuring that more individuals have access to steady incomes. This can help reduce unemployment and poverty in local communities. Koli's commitment to ethically sourced materials and transparent supply chains often includes ensuring that artisans receive fair compensation for their work. Fair wages can improve the quality of life for artisans and their families.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Koli promotes innovation in sustainable e-commerce and supports infrastructure development for local artisans.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Empowerment of Marginalized Groups:** Koli's focus on local craftsmanship can empower marginalized groups, such as women and rural populations, by providing them with economic opportunities and a platform to showcase their talents. **Community Development:** The influx of income from Koli can have a positive ripple effect on the community, as artisans reinvest their earnings into local businesses, education, and other community services. **Economic Independence:** Encouraging local production and consumption helps build a more self-sufficient economy. By reducing dependency on imported goods, Koli supports economic independence and resilience.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

5

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Koli promotes sustainable consumption and production patterns, contributing to sustainable urban development.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Koli emphasizes the use of ethically sourced materials and eco-friendly packaging, promoting responsible consumption. Additionally, a transparent supply chain ensures sustainable production practices, which reduces environmental impact and encourages customers to make mindful purchasing decisions.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Koli's encourages its entrepreneurs and artisans into carbon offset programs and eco-friendly practices which contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

3

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

By promoting sustainable practices, Koli indirectly supports marine conservation and sustainable ocean management.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Koli promotes sustainable agriculture and eco-friendly practices, supporting terrestrial conservation and sustainable land management.

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

Koli promotes fair trade and transparent business practices, contributing to peace and justice for local artisans.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Koli collaborates with local artisans, suppliers, and customers to promote sustainable development and achieve the SDGs.

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

3

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.

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.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.08 Justification

An original idea sets Koli apart from other e-commerce platforms, attracting customers who are specifically looking for unique, handcrafted, and ethically sourced products. That are made in Nigeria -Brand Identity:** The emphasis on Nigerian craftsmanship and sustainability builds a strong, distinctive brand identity that resonates with socially conscious consumers. Cultural Preservation and Promotion:** Showcasing Heritage:** By focusing on Nigerian handcrafted products, Koli helps preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria. This encourages pride in local traditions and educates the global market about Nigerian craftsmanship.

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

Jumia.ng, Konga, PayPorte are our main competitors in the e-commerce business. And what sets Kolli Apart is Curated product selection: Koli's team carefully selects products to ensure a high level of quality, uniqueness, and authenticity. Collaborations and partnerships: Koli partners with local organizations and initiatives to promote cultural preservation, education, and social impact. Exclusive focus on Nigerian handcrafted products: Koli specializes in showcasing the best of Nigerian craftsmanship, offering a curated selection of high-quality, unique products that can't be found elsewhere. Ethical sourcing and sustainability: Koli prioritizes ethical sourcing, eco-friendly packaging, and transparent supply chains, appealing to customers who value environmental and social responsibility.

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

I am a member of a charity foundation called salsabil charity foundation that mainly focuses on women empowerment and child education Women Empowerment: we empower about 100 women yearly with grants to startup businesses Mentorship: we give career advices and lectures in government owned schools Feeding: we organize food drives and feeding centers in 3 states in the nation