Nigeria - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

establishing a business that produces and sells natural, plant-based insect repellents offering an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to chemical-based repellents.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

My venture aims to tap into the growing demand for natural and environmentally friendly products by producing insect repellents derived from locally sourced plants and herbs known for their insect-repelling properties. These could include ingredients like neem, citronella, lemongrass, eucalyptus, orange peel, or others native to the region. The repellents will be formulated using traditional knowledge and modern techniques to create effective, safe, and long-lasting products. The business will focus on sourcing raw materials sustainably from local farmers or growers, providing them with an additional income stream. The natural insect repellents will be marketed as an alternative to synthetic chemical-based products, catering to health-conscious consumers and those concerned about the environmental impact of conventional repellents. Products may include sprays, lotions, or other formats suitable for personal use or household application.

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

 Health and environmental concerns from synthetic chemical repellents.  Lack of locally produced, affordable repellents.  Economic opportunities and sustainability.  Preserving traditional knowledge.  Waste management: By utilizing orange peels and other agricultural waste products as ingredients, our business contributes to reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.  Clean water: Chemical insect repellents can contaminate water sources when improperly disposed of. our natural repellents, being biodegradable, help mitigate this issue and protect clean water resources.

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

• Health and safety: our plant-based repellents are free from synthetic chemicals, making them safer for humans, especially children and pregnant women. They minimize the risk of adverse reactions, skin irritations, or long-term health effects associated with chemical repellents. • Economic empowerment: our business creates employment opportunities and provides a stable income source for local farmers and growers involved in cultivating and supplying the raw materials. This supports economic growth and self-reliance within the community. • Cultural preservation: our venture revives and promotes traditional knowledge of using indigenous plants for insect repelling purposes, preserving this valuable cultural heritage • Environmental sustainability: our products are eco-friendly and biodegradable, minimizing harm to beneficial insects, soil, and water sources. By utilizing locally sourced ingredients like orange peels, our business promotes waste management and a circular economy.

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

our project is designed to benefit the everyday people of Yobe State the families, households, and communities dealing with the constant nuisance and health threats posed by insects. we aim to provide them with a safer, more natural, and affordable alternative to harsh chemical repellents. Health-conscious mothers looking to protect their children from harsh chemicals and potential side effects will find peace of mind in our gentle, plant-based repellents. Pregnant women can also use our products without fear of harming their unborn babies. For those passionate about environmental conservation, our biodegradable repellents made from locally-sourced ingredients offer an eco-friendly solution that doesn't pollute the soil, water, or harm beneficial insects. Conscious consumers can feel good about choosing our sustainable products. The local farming community is at the heart of our venture. By sourcing raw materials from Yobe's own farmers and growers, we create new income streams.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-10-01

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

0

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

0

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

o

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?

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

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

Our natural insect repellent startup directly uplifts communities out of poverty in Yobe State by creating sustainable economic opportunities. By sourcing plants, herbs, and agricultural waste from local farmers and growers, we provide them with an additional revenue stream that can meaningfully supplement their earnings and improve their livelihoods. Moreover, our affordable, locally-produced repellents make effective insect protection accessible even to low-income families. Insect-borne diseases often impose devastating medical costs and lost productivity, trapping households in cycles of poverty. Our products offer a low-cost solution, empowering the poor to safeguard their health without straining their limited resources. our venture generates employment within the community for production, packaging, distribution, and more, it can further uplift lives by providing stable jobs and reliable incomes.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

The additional income we generate for local growers doesn't just uplift their finances - it improves their ability to access quality healthcare, nutritious food, and an overall higher standard of well-being for their families.

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

6

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

Our plant-based insect repellents are a breath of fresh air for community health in Yobe State. Unlike harsh chemical sprays, our locally-sourced, natural formulas pose no risk of skin irritations, allergic reactions, or worrying long-term effects from repeated use. We safeguard the well-being of families by providing a gentle, yet powerful, alternative. Moreover, our affordable repellents act as a first line of defence against the insidious insect-borne diseases that plague our region - malaria, dengue fever, and others that can have devastating, even fatal, consequences, especially for our most vulnerable children and elders. By increasing access to effective prevention measures, we empower communities to proactively protect their health. Through sustainable sourcing practices and eco-friendly production methods, we also contribute to a healthier living environment. Our repellents don't contaminate precious soil or water sources, ensuring our neighbours can thrive in a clean habitat.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

While our core business revolves around producing safe, natural insect repellents, we recognize the importance of quality education. By preserving and promoting traditional knowledge of using locally available plants and herbs for insect repelling purposes, we create opportunities for intergenerational learning and knowledge transfer. Through collaborations with local communities, elders, and traditional practitioners, we aim to document and disseminate this valuable indigenous knowledge. This could involve developing educational materials, workshops, or training programs that empower youth to learn about their cultural heritage and its practical applications. Furthermore, our sustainable sourcing practices and eco-friendly production methods can serve as case studies for environmental education initiatives, raising awareness about responsible resource management and the importance of biodiversity conservation.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Our business actively promotes gender equality by creating economic opportunities for women in Yobe State. We prioritize sourcing raw materials from female farmers and growers, providing them with a stable income stream. This financial empowerment allows women to gain greater independence, decision-making power, and control over their lives. Additionally, if our venture generates employment opportunities, we will ensure equal access and opportunities for women in various roles, including production, management, and leadership positions. We believe in fostering an inclusive and non-discriminatory work environment, challenging traditional gender norms and biases. By preserving and promoting traditional knowledge of using indigenous plants for insect repelling, we also aim to recognize and value the contributions of women as custodians of this cultural heritage. Historically, women have played a vital role in passing down this knowledge across generations.

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's production of plant-based, biodegradable insect repellents directly supports the goal of ensuring clean water and sanitation. Unlike synthetic chemical repellents, our natural formulas do not contaminate water sources when washed off or improperly disposed of. By sourcing ingredients like orange peels and other agricultural waste, we divert these materials from potentially polluting water bodies or clogging drainage systems. This circular approach to utilizing waste products helps reduce the burden on sanitation infrastructure and prevents the release of harmful chemicals into the environment. Furthermore, our eco-friendly manufacturing processes prioritize responsible water usage and treatment of any effluents, ensuring that our operations do not contribute to water pollution or scarcity in the region.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

2

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

Our natural insect repellent startup directly drives decent work and economic growth in Yobe State by creating new income streams for local farmers and growers through sustainable sourcing of raw materials. This supplemental revenue provides decent livelihoods and promotes inclusive economic practices that uplift communities. Moreover, our venture generates employment opportunities in production, packaging, distribution or other operations, we actively contribute to decent job creation. Ensuring these roles offer fair wages, safe working conditions, and skills development aligns with the goal of promoting productive and dignified work for all.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Our startup promotes industry innovation by pioneering the production of effective, plant-based insect repellents derived from locally sourced ingredients in Yobe State. We challenge conventional chemical-based repellents by developing an eco-friendly, sustainable alternative leveraging indigenous knowledge and resources. Through our operations, we build resilient and sustainable infrastructure on a small scale, establishing a local supply chain that sources raw materials from farmers, processes them using eco-friendly methods, and distributes the finished products. This model can be scaled and replicated in other regions.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Our startup actively works to reduce inequalities in Yobe State by creating economic opportunities for marginalized groups, especially women and smallholder farmers. By sourcing raw materials from these communities, we provide stable income streams that uplift their socio-economic status and empower them financially. Moreover, our affordable and accessible natural repellent products protect low-income households from the health and economic burdens of insect-borne diseases. This levels the playing field, ensuring quality preventive care is not just a privilege for the wealthy. If our venture generates employment, we foster an inclusive and non-discriminatory work environment, offering equal opportunities regardless of gender, ethnicity, or social status. This challenges systemic biases and promotes diversity and inclusion.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Our production of plant-based, biodegradable insect repellents using locally sourced ingredients directly aligns with building sustainable communities in Yobe State. By providing an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic chemical repellents, we reduce the environmental impact on urban and rural areas. Furthermore, our sustainable sourcing practices support responsible consumption and production patterns. Utilizing agricultural waste like orange peels promotes a circular economy, reducing waste generation and associated burdens on municipal waste management systems. Through community outreach and awareness campaigns, we educate residents on the benefits of natural repellents and sustainable living practices. This fosters a culture of environmental consciousness and encourages the adoption of greener lifestyles.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Our startup embodies responsible consumption and production through our core business model of utilizing locally sourced, plant-based ingredients and repurposing agricultural waste to create effective insect repellents. This circular approach minimizes resource extraction and waste generation. By diverting materials like orange peels from the waste stream, we demonstrate the value of a circular economy and inspire other businesses to find innovative ways to repurpose by-products responsibly. Our eco-friendly production methods prioritize sustainable practices, such as efficient water usage, responsible chemical management, and minimizing energy consumption. This commitment to environmental sustainability reduces our operational footprint. Through consumer education initiatives, we raise awareness about the benefits of natural, biodegradable repellents over synthetic chemical alternatives.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

6

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Our plant-based insect repellent production has a lower carbon footprint compared to synthetic chemical-based alternatives. By sourcing ingredients locally and utilizing agricultural waste, we reduce emissions associated with raw material extraction, processing, and transportation over long distances. Through our eco-friendly manufacturing processes, we prioritize energy efficiency and explore opportunities to incorporate renewable energy sources like solar power, further minimizing our greenhouse gas emissions. If our venture expands operations, we aim to implement sustainable practices such as water recycling, waste minimization, and energy conservation measures that contribute to climate change mitigation efforts. Moreover, our sustainable business model raises awareness about the impacts of unsustainable production and consumption patterns on the environment and climate.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

6

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

While our natural insect repellent startup's core operations may not directly impact marine life, we contribute to the "Life Below Water" goal through our commitment to responsible production and environmental sustainability. By producing biodegradable, plant-based repellents using eco-friendly methods, we minimize the risk of harmful chemicals and pollutants entering water bodies and eventually reaching oceans. Our sustainable sourcing practices, which include repurposing agricultural waste like orange peels, reduce the overall waste generation that could potentially contaminate freshwater sources and ultimately affect marine ecosystems. This circular approach helps mitigate the negative impacts of unsustainable production and consumption patterns. While our natural insect repellent startup's core operations may not directly impact marine life, we contribute to the "Life Below Water" goal through our commitment to responsible production and environmental sustainability.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Our startup actively supports the preservation of life on land through our sustainable sourcing practices and commitment to biodiversity conservation. By utilizing locally sourced, plant-based ingredients and repurposing agricultural waste, we reduce the need for resource extraction and habitat destruction associated with conventional raw material procurement. Furthermore, our eco-friendly production methods minimize the risk of chemical pollution and waste contamination that could harm terrestrial ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. Our biodegradable repellents pose no threat to plant and animal life when disposed of properly.

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

5

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

While our core business revolves around producing eco-friendly insect repellents, we indirectly contribute to promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions through our ethical and community-centered approach. By creating economic opportunities for marginalized groups, such as women and smallholder farmers, we foster an environment of greater equality and inclusion. Through our commitment to fair labor practices, if we generate employment opportunities, we uphold principles of decent work, worker rights, and non-discrimination, contributing to the building of just and inclusive societies.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Our startup recognizes the importance of fostering partnerships and collaboration to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals effectively. While our core focus is producing eco-friendly insect repellents, we actively seek to establish partnerships that amplify our positive impact. By engaging with local communities, indigenous groups, and traditional knowledge holders, we build partnerships that preserve cultural heritage and promote the sustainable use of natural resources. These collaborative efforts contribute to the exchange of knowledge and best practices. Furthermore, we aim to partner with local educational institutions and environmental organizations to jointly develop educational programs, workshops, and awareness campaigns. These initiatives can promote sustainable consumption patterns, responsible waste management, and the importance of biodiversity conservation.

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.

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.

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.

6

05.08 Justification

Our business produces and sells natural, plant-based insect repellents, offering an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to chemical-based products. By leveraging safe, effective ingredients like essential oils, we address health and environmental concerns. Our innovative formulations ensure high efficacy, pleasant user experience, and adherence to eco-friendly practices. We fill a market gap by providing an effective and natural repellent, coupled with educational initiatives, community engagement, and personalized product offerings. This unique approach positions us as a leader in the natural repellent market, meeting the growing demand for safe, sustainable solutions.

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

our main potential competitors include brands like Mortein, Baygon, and Raid, which offer chemical-based insect repellents, as well as local natural product companies such as Green Leaf Herbal and Nature's Gentle Touch. We stand out by using natural, plant-based ingredients that provide effective protection without the harmful chemicals found in traditional repellents. Our products are formulated for high efficacy and user satisfaction, with easy application, pleasant scents, and non-greasy finishes. Additionally, our commitment to sustainability, eco-friendly practices, and community engagement appeals to environmentally conscious and health-focused Nigerian consumers.

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

N/A