Nigeria - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

FarmCI's InterKool Storage Pod is a portable, solar-powered solution for preserving and transporting farm produce, extending shelf life and reducing disease risk for small-scale farmers and retailers.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

FarmCI's InterKool Storage Pod is a portable, solar-powered solution for small-scale farmers and crop retailers. It maintains a controlled temperature to extend foods shelf life and reduce disease risk. With a 27-liter capacity, it's ideal for both preservation and transport. Its lightweight, stackable design allows for easy farm-to-market journeys and convenient in-home use. Unlike traditional storage methods, InterKool offers a sustainable and user-friendly way to minimize food wastage and enhance food security. Durable and weather-resistant, it ensures reliable performance in harsh conditions.

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

The main problem FarmCI is addressing is the significant challenge small-scale farmers in regions like Nigeria face in preserving their harvested produce due to inadequate storage infrastructure. Traditional storage methods, reliant on room temperature, often lead to high levels of food wastage and contamination from diseases like aflatoxin, particularly in vegetables such as tomatoes and peppers. This impacts farmers' livelihoods by reducing the marketable quantity and quality of their produce and threatens food security. The lack of affordable, effective storage solutions exacerbates these issues, leaving farmers vulnerable to economic losses and limiting their ability to sustain their operations and contribute to a stable food supply. FarmCI aims to provide a sustainable, cost-effective solution to these issues through InterKool Storage, which leverages solar energy to maintain optimal storage conditions, thereby reducing waste, and preventing contamination and wastage.

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 major benefits of using FarmCI's InterKool Storage Pod are: 1. Extended Shelf Life and Reduced Contamination: The controlled temperature environment significantly extends the shelf life of produce and minimizes the risk of disease contamination, such as aflatoxin, ensuring higher quality and safer food for consumers. 2. Portability and Convenience: Unlike traditional storage solutions that require transporting produce to shared facilities, the lightweight and stackable InterKool Storage Pod allows farmers and retailers to preserve and transport their produce conveniently within their own homes or during farm-to-market journeys. 3. Sustainable and Cost-Effective: Powered by solar energy with rechargeable batteries, the InterKool Storage Pod offers a sustainable, off-grid solution that reduces dependency on expensive and unreliable electricity sources, making it an affordable option for small-scale farmers and crop retailers.

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

FarmCI's project is aimed at serving small-scale farmers and crop retailers in regions like Nigeria, where inadequate storage infrastructure and high food wastage pose significant challenges. The targeted beneficiaries are: 1. Small-Scale Farmers: Individuals or families engaged in agricultural activities who struggle to preserve and transport their harvested produce due to the lack of effective storage solutions. The InterKool Storage Pod helps them reduce waste, prevent disease contamination, and maintain the quality of their crops, ultimately improving their livelihoods and economic stability. 2. Crop Retailers: Businesses or individuals involved in buying and selling agricultural produce at local markets or retail outlets. The InterKool Storage Pod enables them to store and transport fresh produce more efficiently, ensuring higher quality for consumers and reducing losses due to spoilage.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-10-12

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

5

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.)

Teams Yakubu Yinusa Temitope(cofouder and CEO), a dynamic and accomplished entrepreneur and computer scientist at the forefront of innovative agricultural solutions Abdulrasaq Temitope ( Co-founder and a Final Year student of Forestry at OOU and leading the Operational management) Francis Ajadioni (CTO I, Telecommunications and IoT engineers, deploy the interconnected communication technology) Omotoso Boluwatife (CTO II, Software engineer and Full stack developer an) Odusote Mariam: (Marketing, product designer and User experience manager) Sokoya David ( Machine learning and Data engineer, deploying ML algorithm and interaction logic) Fashola Joseph Olamide ( Graduate of OOU, and business development consultants) Ojegele Boluwaji (Procurement and People manager.)

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

https://www.linkedin.com/company/farmci/

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

SDG 1: No Poverty: FarmCI's InterKool Storage Pod combats poverty by enhancing agricultural productivity and income stability for small-scale farmers. By preserving produce at optimal temperatures, it reduces post-harvest losses and increases the marketable quantity of crops. This leads to higher income and economic stability for farmers, helping them invest in their operations and improve their livelihoods. The solar-powered technology is affordable and sustainable, reducing dependency on expensive electricity and lowering operational costs. The InterKool Storage Pod also empowers women and vulnerable groups involved in agriculture, contributing to better living standards and access to education and healthcare, thus addressing multiple dimensions of poverty.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

SDG 2: Zero Hunger: The InterKool Storage Pod helps achieve zero hunger by reducing food wastage and ensuring a stable supply of fresh produce. By extending the shelf life of perishable crops, it increases food availability and accessibility in local markets. This stability helps lower food prices, making nutritious food more affordable for communities. Enhanced food security reduces malnutrition and hunger, especially in vulnerable populations. By ensuring farmers can preserve and sell more of their produce, the InterKool Storage Pod supports sustainable agriculture and improves the overall food system's resilience and efficiency.

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

6

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being: FarmCI's InterKool Storage Pod contributes to good health and well-being by preventing the spread of foodborne diseases through improved storage conditions. By reducing contamination from aflatoxins and other pathogens, it ensures that consumers receive safer, healthier produce. This leads to a decrease in food-related illnesses and improves overall public health. Additionally, by reducing economic stress for farmers, the project supports mental and physical well-being, as stable income allows better access to healthcare and a healthier lifestyle.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

3

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

not applicable

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

2

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

not applicable

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

3

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

not applicable

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy The InterKool Storage Pod promotes affordable and clean energy through its reliance on solar power. By utilizing integrated solar cells and rechargeable batteries, it provides a sustainable, off-grid solution for preserving agricultural produce. This reduces dependency on fossil fuels and lowers energy costs for farmers and retailers, making advanced storage technology accessible and affordable. The use of renewable energy sources contributes to environmental sustainability and helps mitigate climate change impacts, aligning with global efforts to increase the use of clean energy.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth The InterKool Storage Pod fosters decent work and economic growth by enhancing the productivity and profitability of small-scale farmers. By reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring more produce reaches the market in good condition, it increases farmers' incomes and economic stability. The project's focus on sustainability and innovation encourages entrepreneurship and the development of local businesses around the production, distribution, and maintenance of the storage units. This stimulates local economies, creates job opportunities, and supports sustainable economic growth in rural communities.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure FarmCI's InterKool Storage Pod exemplifies innovation in agricultural storage solutions. By integrating solar power and advanced temperature control in a portable, affordable design, it addresses the infrastructural challenges faced by small-scale farmers. The project promotes sustainable industrial practices and supports the development of resilient agricultural infrastructure. By providing a scalable and efficient solution, the InterKool Storage Pod fosters innovation in the agricultural sector, driving improvements in productivity and sustainability.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

3

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities FarmCI's InterKool Storage Pod contributes to reducing inequalities by providing small-scale farmers and retailers, regardless of their location, with an affordable and efficient storage solution. This technology levels the playing field, allowing those in remote and underserved areas to store their produce with reduced stress and expense. The portability and cost-effectiveness of the solar-powered storage pod ensure that even the most marginalized farmers can preserve their crops, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve their income. By enabling equitable access to advanced storage technology, the InterKool Storage Pod supports economic inclusivity and empowers disadvantaged communities, thus reducing inequalities within and among regions.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities FarmCI's InterKool Storage Pod enhances sustainable cities and communities by improving the food supply chain and reducing wastage. It ensures a stable supply of fresh produce to urban markets, supporting food security and affordability. The InterKool Storage Pod uses less of the cooling chemicals typically found in traditional freezers, instead utilizing an atmospheric air cooling unit similar to those used in most electronic devices like PCs. This innovative approach minimizes environmental impact and promotes eco-friendly urban and rural environments. By leveraging local production, the project fosters economic resilience and job creation, contributing to inclusive growth. Through these efforts, the InterKool Storage Pod helps make cities and communities more inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production: The InterKool Storage Pod promotes responsible consumption and production by minimizing food wastage and enhancing the efficiency of agricultural practices. By extending the shelf life of produce and reducing spoilage, it ensures that more food reaches consumers, reducing the environmental impact associated with food waste. The project encourages sustainable production methods and supports the efficient use of resources, aligning with global goals for responsible consumption and sustainable development.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

SDG 13: Climate Action The InterKool Storage Pod supports climate action by reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional storage methods. By utilizing solar energy, it decreases reliance on fossil fuels and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. The project promotes climate-smart agriculture and contributes to the resilience of farming communities against climate change impacts. By reducing food wastage, it also mitigates the environmental impact of decomposing organic matter, which releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas. The InterKool Storage Pod aligns with efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable environmental practices.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

3

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

not applicable

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

3

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

not applicable

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

3

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

not applicable

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals: FarmCI's InterKool Storage Pod supports SDG 17 by fostering local partnerships and strengthening the means of implementation for sustainable development. By leveraging local production processes, we engage with local product engineers and manufacturers to design and build storage units. This collaboration reduces costs and cuts off currency disintermediation, thereby supporting the local economy and strengthening the Nigerian Naira by minimizing dependence on imported goods. Engaging local talent and resources not only reduces production costs but also ensures that the product is tailored to the specific needs and conditions of the region. This approach promotes capacity building, knowledge transfer, and the creation of job opportunities within the community.

05.01 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

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.

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.08 Justification

FarmCI's InterKool Storage Pod revolutionizes agricultural storage with its innovative blend of solar-powered technology and atmospheric air cooling. This portable solution meets the critical need for affordable and sustainable food preservation in regions like rural Nigeria, where traditional methods are costly and unreliable. It serves as both a preservation unit and transport container, enhancing efficiency from farm to market. By reducing post-harvest losses and environmental impact compared to conventional options, the InterKool Storage Pod improves food security, supports economic stability for small-scale farmers and retailers, and sets a new standard for inclusive, eco-friendly agricultural practices.

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

FarmCI's InterKool Storage Pod distinguishes itself from competitors like Ecotutu, ColdHubs, and AkoFresh by focusing squarely on the needs of small-scale farmers and local retailers in underserved communities. While Ecotutu offers expensive temperature-preservative coolers suited for large-scale commercial farms and ColdHubs operates solar-powered cold rooms with a pay-as-you-store model, these solutions are often inaccessible to small-scale farmers due to high upfront costs or operational complexities. In contrast, the InterKool Storage Pod is affordable, portable, and designed specifically for small-scale operations. It utilizes solar energy and atmospheric air cooling, eliminating the need for costly ice blocks or grid electricity. Its lightweight and stackable design allows for easy transportation and flexible use from farm to market. By catering to the unique challenges faced by small-scale farmers, such as unreliable electricity and limited financial resources.

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

Yes! Starting with FarmCI as an organization cofounded by a strong female founder, our team is matched by almost the same ratio of male to female, both the active directors and interning teams.