Kenya - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Bee's Bio Hybrid Diapers aims to revolutionize the diaper industry by offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional disposable diapers. Our hybrid diapers consist of reusable biodegradable outer pants paired with biodegradable diaper inserts.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Bee's Bio Hybrid Diapers is an innovative start-up offering eco-friendly, high-quality diapering options. Our products include reusable biodegradable outer pants, biodegradable diaper inserts, and liners. Our vision is to lead in sustainable diaper solutions, advocating for environmental consciousness and baby comfort. We aim to develop biodegradable products, raise awareness about conentional disposable diaper impacts and provide eco-friendly options for eco-conscious parents and millennials, we stand out with a hybrid solution combining reusable and biodegradable components. Our revenue streams include direct sales, retail partnerships, and a subscription model. Marketing strategies involve social media campaigns, influencer partnerships, in-store displays, and content marketing. Our initial investment covers product development and marketing, with growth expected in three years. Sustainability is core, with Life Cycle Assessments measuring our impact.

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

Bee's Bio Hybrid Diapers aims to address the significant environmental impact of conventional disposable diapers, which contribute heavily to landfill waste and pollution. By offering a sustainable alternative through reusable biodegradable outer pants and biodegradable inserts, the business seeks to reduce the ecological footprint associated with diapering. Conventional disposable diapers take hundreds of years to decompose, posing long-term environmental hazards. Bee's Bio Hybrid Diapers provides eco-conscious parents with a viable, convenient solution that combines the benefits of reusability and biodegradability, thereby promoting a more sustainable lifestyle and reducing the overall waste produced by disposable diapers.

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. Environmental Sustainability: Made from biodegradable materials, our products reduce landfill waste and decompose faster than traditional diapers, lowering environmental impact. 2. Cost Savings: Reusable outer pants and biodegradable inserts offer a cost-effective solution compared to continuously buying disposable diapers. 3. Comfort and Convenience: Our hybrid diapers provide superior comfort for babies with high absorbency and a snug fit, preventing leaks. 4. Eco-Friendly Practices: Promotes sustainable living for eco-conscious parents, helping them make environmentally responsible choices. 5.Hygiene and Ease of Use: Diaper liners make clean-up quick and hygienic, enhancing overall user experience. Innovation: Combines the best aspects of reusable and disposable diapers, offering flexibility and practicality for modern parents. 6.Health Benefits: Reduces exposure to chemicals and plastics found in conventional disposable diapers, potentially decreasing skin irritation and rashes.

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

The primary targeted beneficiaries include: 1. Eco-Conscious Parents: Individuals seeking environmentally responsible products to minimize their ecological footprint and support sustainable living. 2. Millennial Parents: A demographic particularly inclined towards innovative, eco-friendly solutions for their children’s needs. 4. Health-Conscious Families: Parents looking to reduce their baby’s exposure to the chemicals and plastics found in traditional disposable diapers. 5. Retailers and Eco-Friendly Stores: Businesses wanting to offer sustainable, high-quality baby care products to their environmentally aware customers. 6. Environmental Advocates: Individuals and groups focused on reducing waste and promoting biodegradable solutions. Our targeted beneficiaries benefit from a product that combines environmental sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and enhanced comfort for their babies.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2021-08-01

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

2

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

1

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

Bokayo Dabasso - Founder | Chief Marketing Officer - Has 3 years running a successful social enterprise and 5+ years working with FMCG selling products for impact. Chief campaigner and brand ambassador. Expert in sales cycle, digital marketing Darmi Jattani | Chief Project Coordinator - Has 8+ years experience in Project management with expertise in gender mainstreaming and Development working with various academic institutions, CBOs, NGOs and esteemed organizations like the National Gender and Equality Commission and the Kenya Women Parliamentarians Association

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

https://beeshybridbiodaiper.framer.website/

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

d) Primary commodities (food, drink, household and personal products)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

1. Cost Savings for Families: By offering a reusable and biodegradable diapering solution, families can save money over time compared to continuously purchasing disposable diapers. This can alleviate financial strain, especially for low-income families. 2.Job Creation: The production, distribution, and marketing of these eco-friendly products can create jobs, contributing to economic development and potentially reducing poverty in communities. 3. Education and Awareness: Raising awareness about sustainable practices can empower communities to adopt cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions, fostering a culture of thrift and resourcefulness. 4. Partnerships with NGOs: Collaborating with non-profit organizations to distribute affordable, sustainable diaper solutions to low-income families can provide immediate economic relief and improve living conditions.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

3

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

N/A

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

1.Reduced Exposure to Chemicals: By using biodegradable materials, our diapers reduce babies' exposure to harmful chemicals and plastics found in conventional disposable diapers, potentially decreasing skin irritation and rashes. 2. Improved Hygiene: Diaper liners enhance cleanliness by making solid waste disposal easier, promoting better hygiene practices. 3. Comfort and Fit: Our products are designed for superior comfort and a snug fit, preventing leaks and ensuring babies remain dry and comfortable, which is crucial for their health and well-being. 4. Environmental Health: Reducing landfill waste and pollution from traditional diapers contributes to a cleaner environment, indirectly benefiting public health by reducing toxins in the ecosystem.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

2

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

N/A

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

5

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

1. Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: By promoting opportunities for women in the production, distribution, and marketing of our eco-friendly products, the project supports female entrepreneurship and leadership. 2. Reducing Care Burden: Offering convenient and easy-to-use diapering solutions can alleviate some of the childcare responsibilities that traditionally fall on women, promoting a more equitable distribution of household duties. 3. Economic Opportunities: Creating jobs in our company and supply chain can provide economic empowerment for women, particularly in communities where job opportunities may be limited. 4. Health and Well-being: Improving the health and comfort of babies supports the well-being of families, particularly benefiting mothers who often bear the brunt of childcare-related stress.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

1. Reduced Water Pollution: Using biodegradable materials in our products minimizes the release of harmful chemicals and microplastics into water systems, protecting water quality. 2. Efficient Waste Management: Our biodegradable inserts and liners decompose more rapidly than traditional diapers, reducing landfill overflow and potential contamination of water sources. 3. Promoting Hygiene: Diaper liners enhance cleanliness, making waste disposal easier and more sanitary, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases. 4. Resource Conservation: By promoting reusable outer pants, our products reduce the overall consumption of water-intensive resources used in the production of disposable diapers.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

2

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

N/A

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

1. Job Creation: The production, distribution, and marketing of eco-friendly diapers create new job opportunities across various sectors, supporting local economies. 2. Support for Small Businesses: By partnering with small, eco-friendly retailers, we help stimulate economic activity and growth within communities. 3. Fair Labor Practices: Committing to ethical manufacturing processes ensures safe working conditions and fair wages for employees, promoting decent work standards. 4. Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Encouraging women and minority entrepreneurs in the supply chain fosters inclusive economic growth and diversity in the business environment. 5. Sustainable Economic Development: By focusing on sustainable products, we contribute to long-term economic resilience and reduce environmental costs associated with traditional diaper production.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

1. Innovative Product Design: Our hybrid diapers combine reusable outer pants and biodegradable inserts, introducing a novel solution in the diaper industry that addresses environmental concerns. 2. Sustainable Manufacturing: By adopting eco-friendly production methods, we promote cleaner industrial processes and reduce the environmental impact of diaper manufacturing. 3. Research and Development: Investing in R&D for biodegradable materials and efficient manufacturing techniques drives innovation and technological advancement in the industry. 4. Supporting Green Infrastructure: Our commitment to sustainability encourages the development of green infrastructure and environmentally friendly supply chains. 5. Encouraging Industry Standards: Setting a precedent for eco-friendly diaper products can inspire industry-wide changes, leading to broader adoption of sustainable practices.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

3

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

N/A

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

3

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

N/A

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

1. Reducing Waste: Our biodegradable diaper inserts and liners minimize landfill waste compared to traditional disposable diapers, promoting sustainable waste management practices. 2. Promoting Reusability: The reusable outer pants reduce the need for frequent disposal, encouraging a shift towards more sustainable consumer behavior. 3. Environmental Impact: By using biodegradable materials and promoting eco-friendly alternatives, we mitigate the environmental footprint of diaper production and usage. 4. Educational Outreach: We raise awareness about the environmental impact of conventional diapers, educating consumers on sustainable choices and responsible consumption practices. 5. Supply Chain Sustainability: Partnering with suppliers committed to ethical and sustainable practices ensures our entire production chain adheres to responsible consumption and production principles.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

1. Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: By using biodegradable materials and promoting reusable components, our products reduce the carbon footprint associated with traditional diaper production and disposal. 2. Energy Efficiency: Adopting sustainable manufacturing practices minimizes energy consumption and promotes efficient use of resources throughout the production process. 3. Preserving Natural Resources: Biodegradable materials conserve natural resources by reducing the reliance on non-renewable materials typically used in disposable diapers. 4. Advocating Sustainable Lifestyles: Educating consumers about the environmental impact of diaper choices encourages adoption of sustainable lifestyles, contributing to broader climate resilience efforts. 5. Supporting Environmental Policies: Advocating for policies that promote eco-friendly products and practices within the diaper industry strengthens climate action initiatives on a larger scale.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

6

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

1. Reduced Plastic Waste: Biodegradable materials in our diapers reduce the release of microplastics into water bodies, preserving marine biodiversity and habitats. 2. Sustainable Waste Management: Biodegradable inserts and liners decompose more rapidly than traditional diapers, reducing the risk of marine debris and pollution. 3. Promoting Environmental Awareness: Educating consumers about the impact of disposable diapers on aquatic life fosters responsible consumption and waste disposal habits. 4. Supporting Ocean Conservation: Through sustainable manufacturing and product design, we contribute to cleaner oceans and healthier aquatic environments. 5. Advocacy for Water Conservation: By conserving water resources and minimizing water pollution from diaper disposal, we support sustainable water management practices critical for marine life.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

1. Reducing Landfill Waste: Biodegradable diaper inserts and liners decompose faster than traditional diapers, reducing landfill overflow and preserving land for other purposes. 2. Conserving Biodiversity: By minimizing habitat destruction and pollution associated with conventional diaper disposal, our products help protect terrestrial ecosystems and wildlife. 3. Promoting Sustainable Land Use: Encouraging the use of biodegradable materials and reusable components supports sustainable land management practices and reduces the environmental impact of diaper production. 4. Educational Outreach: Raising awareness about the environmental impact of diaper choices encourages consumers to make sustainable decisions, contributing to the preservation of terrestrial biodiversity. 5. Supporting Sustainable Development: Our commitment to sustainable practices fosters responsible consumption patterns and supports efforts to achieve sustainable land use and conservation goals.

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

2

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

N/A

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

1. Supplier Partnerships: Working with suppliers committed to ethical and sustainable practices ensures our entire supply chain aligns with responsible consumption and production principles. 2. Retailer Collaborations: Partnering with eco-friendly retailers and distributors expands our reach, making sustainable diapering options more accessible to consumers worldwide. 3. NGO and Community Engagement: Collaborating with non-profits and community organizations allows us to support local initiatives, promote environmental education, and address social challenges related to diapering practices. 4. Industry Collaboration: Engaging with industry stakeholders and peers fosters knowledge sharing, innovation, and the adoption of sustainable practices across the diaper industry. 5. Government Advocacy: Advocating for policies that promote eco-friendly products and sustainable manufacturing practices supports regulatory frameworks conducive to sustainable development goals.

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.

3

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

3

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

Our product is an improvement and eco friendly alternative to conventional plastic diapers that pollute the environment, we are meeting a demand that is not yet being satisfied as there are very few eco friendly diaper brands and there is an increasing trens towards sustainable consumption.

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

Conventional Disposable Diaper Manufacturers i.e brands such as pampers, molfix, softcare etc - we stand out as our diapers have no plastic component and is environmentally friendly. Our diapers also have no chemicals hence does not irrirate baby skin Manufacturerers of reusable diapers e.g mama toto - we stand out as we provide the convenience of disposable inserts that saves the mother time and energy used to regularly clean soiled diapers Biodegradable Diaper Manufacturers e.g Neli and Co. - we stand out as we will provide a cost effective alternative as eco friendly diapers in the market currently are offered at premium prices

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

Yes, we plan to use mothers and women as our retailers and brand ambassadors