Malawi - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

PROGMA empowers Malawian start-ups with affordable digital and traditional marketing services, focusing on the local manufacturing, construction, and e-commerce sectors, to boost growth and employment by leveraging tailored marketing strategies.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

PROGMA, established in 2021, is a marketing agency supporting start-ups in Lilongwe and Malawi. Born from the economic challenges of COVID-19, PROGMA provides affordable digital and traditional marketing services to help local businesses thrive. Our mission is to bridge the marketing gap for start-ups and SMEs by offering tailored solutions in the manufacturing, construction, and e-commerce sectors, including marketing strategies, brand management, marketing result evaluation, and social media management. Our team, led by Dan Singano, conducts in-depth research to identify and solve client marketing challenges, ensuring effective brand messaging and customer engagement. Targeting 20% of Lilongwe's manufacturing and construction companies, we aim to expand across districts. Financial projections for Year 1 include 72 customers and US$13,926.28 revenue. We seek high-speed computers, a large format printer, and additional staff to scale operations.

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

The main problem PROGMA aims to solve is the marketing challenges faced by start-ups and SMEs in Lilongwe and across Malawi, particularly in the wake of economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of these businesses struggle with limited resources, lack of expertise, and inadequate platforms to effectively market their products and services, which hampers their growth and sustainability. Additionally, the high unemployment rate among skilled youth and graduates exacerbates the issue, as they lack opportunities to apply their skills in a professional setting. PROGMA addresses these problems by providing affordable, tailored marketing solutions that help businesses grow while creating employment opportunities for young professionals.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your startup provides (at least 3).

Cost-Effective Marketing Solutions: PROGMA offers affordable digital and traditional marketing services tailored to the unique needs of start-ups and SMEs. This enables businesses with limited budgets to access professional marketing strategies that drive growth and enhance brand visibility without incurring prohibitive costs. Comprehensive Service Offerings: Our range of services includes customized marketing strategies, brand management, marketing result evaluation, and social media management. This comprehensive approach ensures that clients receive holistic support, from initial market analysis to ongoing brand promotion and performance optimization. Empowerment and Job Creation: By employing skilled youth and graduates, PROGMA not only delivers high-quality marketing services but also addresses the high unemployment rate in Malawi. This dual impact helps in building a stronger local economy by fostering entrepreneurship and providing valuable job opportunities to the community.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your startup’s product/service is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

1. Local Manufacturing Companies: Small and emerging manufacturers who need effective marketing strategies to increase their market presence and compete with established players. 2. Construction Firms: New and growing construction companies seeking to enhance their brand visibility and attract more clients through targeted marketing efforts. 3. E-commerce Businesses: Online retailers and e-commerce platforms looking to expand their customer base and improve their online engagement through robust digital marketing solutions. 4. Unemployed Youth and Graduates: By providing job opportunities and practical experience in marketing, PROGMA helps skilled young professionals apply their knowledge and reduce the high unemployment rate in Malawi. 5. Local Economy: Through the growth and success of start-ups and SMEs, PROGMA contributes to the overall economic development of the region, fostering a vibrant business ecosystem.

01.05 When was your company established?

2021-12-07

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

0

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

0

01.09 Please describe the profile of the other owners within your startup (skills, experience, etc.)

The other key owners within PROGMA bring diverse skills and experiences crucial to our startup's success: Bradley Mlanga (Head of Operations): Holds a degree in Business Administration and excels in budgeting and operational efficiency. Precious Yekha (HR Manager): Brings a degree in Human Resource Management, along with expertise in business management, marketing, and sales. Mphatso Msonthi (Branding Manager): Possesses a degree in Media Studies and specializes in graphic design and brand identity management. Tamandani Banda (Welder): A certified professional in welding and fabrication, contributing practical skills essential for our operations.

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

https://www.facebook.com/Progma.mw

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

i) Communication services (telecommunications, media, interactive services)

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

1. Job Creation: By employing skilled youth and graduates, PROGMA provides stable income opportunities, reducing unemployment and helping individuals and their families achieve better living standards. 2. Supporting Start-ups and SMEs: By offering affordable marketing services, PROGMA helps small businesses grow and become sustainable, which can lead to more job opportunities and economic stability within the community. 3. Economic Growth: The growth and success of start-ups and SMEs foster a more robust local economy, which can have a broader impact on poverty reduction by generating more economic activities and wealth distribution.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

While PROGMA’s primary focus is not directly related to food production or distribution, our activities indirectly contribute to the goal of zero hunger in the following ways: Economic Empowerment: By supporting the growth of start-ups and SMEs, particularly those in the manufacturing and e-commerce sectors, PROGMA contributes to economic stability and increased incomes. Higher incomes can lead to better food security for individuals and their families. Job Creation: Providing employment opportunities for youth and graduates helps reduce poverty, which is closely linked to hunger. Stable jobs mean individuals can afford better nutrition and food security. Supporting Agricultural Enterprises: If PROGMA's services are extended to start-ups in the agricultural sector, we could directly enhance their marketing strategies, leading to better sales and distribution of agricultural products, thereby contributing to food security.

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

5

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification for my startup

PROGMA indirectly supports good health and well-being through economic and social factors: Economic Stability: By providing employment opportunities and supporting the growth of start-ups and SMEs, PROGMA helps improve the economic stability of individuals. This financial stability enables better access to healthcare services and healthier living conditions. Job Creation and Mental Health: Employment can positively affect mental health by reducing stress related to financial insecurity and providing a sense of purpose and community. By creating jobs, PROGMA contributes to the mental well-being of its employees. Support for Health-related Start-ups: If PROGMA's marketing services are utilized by start-ups in the health sector (e.g., health tech, wellness products), it can help these businesses reach more people, thereby contributing to public health and well-being.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

PROGMA contributes to quality education through various initiatives: Skill Development: By employing youth and graduates skilled in marketing, branding, and related fields, PROGMA provides practical experience and continuous learning opportunities. Employees gain hands-on experience that enhances their skills and knowledge in the marketing industry. Training and Mentorship: PROGMA invests in training and mentorship programs for its employees, focusing on professional development and industry-specific skills. This investment not only improves employee performance but also prepares them for future career opportunities. Educational Outreach: Through workshops, seminars, and online resources, PROGMA shares knowledge and best practices in marketing with start-ups and SMEs. This educational outreach helps these businesses improve their marketing strategies and overall business operations.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

5

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

PROGMA strives to promote gender equality through its practices and initiatives: Equal Employment Opportunities: PROGMA ensures equal opportunities for all genders in recruitment and employment practices. We prioritize skills and qualifications, fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. Leadership and Representation: While our current leadership team includes a mix of genders, we are committed to further enhancing gender diversity and ensuring equitable representation at all levels of the organization. Community Engagement: PROGMA engages in community initiatives that support gender equality, such as awareness campaigns and partnerships with organizations promoting women in entrepreneurship and leadership roles.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

4

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

4

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

PROGMA actively contributes to decent work and economic growth through its business operations and initiatives: Job Creation: By providing employment opportunities to skilled youth and graduates in marketing, branding, and related fields, PROGMA contributes directly to decent work. These jobs offer stable incomes and opportunities for professional growth. Support for Start-ups and SMEs: PROGMA helps start-ups and SMEs grow through affordable marketing services, enabling them to expand their market reach and increase sales. This support fosters economic growth by stimulating entrepreneurship and innovation. Local Economic Development: As PROGMA supports local businesses, particularly in sectors like manufacturing, construction, and e-commerce, it contributes to broader economic development in Lilongwe and across Malawi. This includes creating opportunities for suppliers, service providers, and other businesses in the ecosystem.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

5

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

PROGMA contributes to industry innovation and infrastructure development in the following ways: Digital Marketing Innovation: By offering digital marketing services, PROGMA helps local businesses adopt innovative marketing strategies. This includes leveraging digital platforms, analytics, and emerging technologies to enhance their market presence and reach. Infrastructure Support: PROGMA's expansion plans include opening branches near industrial sites, which improves accessibility to marketing services for local businesses. This infrastructure development supports economic activities and facilitates business growth in underserved areas. Promotion of Local Industries: PROGMA focuses on sectors like manufacturing, construction, and e-commerce, providing specialized marketing solutions that promote innovation within these industries. By enhancing their visibility and competitiveness, PROGMA contributes to industry growth and innovation.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

5

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

PROGMA contributes to reducing inequalities through various initiatives and practices: Equal Opportunity Employment: PROGMA ensures fair and equal employment practices, providing opportunities for skilled youth and graduates regardless of gender or background. This promotes inclusivity and reduces inequalities in access to employment. Support for Small Businesses: By offering affordable marketing services tailored to start-ups and SMEs, PROGMA levels the playing field for smaller businesses. This support enables them to compete more effectively with larger enterprises, thus reducing economic inequalities. Community Engagement: PROGMA engages in community initiatives that promote entrepreneurship and economic empowerment, particularly among marginalized groups. This includes workshops, mentorship programs, and partnerships that aim to uplift disadvantaged communities.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

4

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

5

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

PROGMA contributes to responsible consumption and production through several initiatives and practices: Promotion of Digital Marketing: By emphasizing digital marketing strategies, PROGMA encourages businesses to reduce their reliance on traditional, resource-intensive marketing methods. This promotes more sustainable consumption of marketing resources. Advocacy for Sustainable Practices: PROGMA educates clients on sustainable marketing practices, such as using recycled materials for promotional materials, reducing waste in marketing campaigns, and promoting eco-friendly products and services. Support for Sustainable Businesses: PROGMA provides marketing services to businesses that prioritize sustainability, such as those in renewable energy, green technologies, and eco-friendly products. By enhancing their visibility, PROGMA supports their efforts in promoting responsible consumption and production.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

4

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

3

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

5

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

PROGMA contributes to the goal of life on land through various initiatives and practices: Support for Sustainable Agriculture: While our primary focus is on marketing services, PROGMA can support agricultural businesses by helping them improve their marketing strategies. This includes promoting sustainable agricultural practices that conserve soil, water, and biodiversity. Environmental Awareness: PROGMA educates clients and stakeholders about the importance of biodiversity conservation and sustainable land management practices. Through workshops, seminars, and online resources, we advocate for responsible land use and environmental stewardship. Community Engagement: PROGMA engages in community initiatives that promote biodiversity conservation and habitat restoration. By raising awareness and supporting local conservation efforts, we contribute to preserving life on land and protecting ecosystems.

02.16.01 My startup contributes to the Peace Justice and Strong Institutions goal

4

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

PROGMA recognizes the importance of partnerships for achieving sustainable development goals and actively seeks collaborations in the following ways: Client Partnerships: PROGMA forms partnerships with start-ups, SMEs, and businesses in various sectors to provide tailored marketing solutions. These partnerships enhance mutual growth and contribute to achieving shared business goals. Community and NGO Collaborations: PROGMA collaborates with local communities, NGOs, and non-profit organizations to support community initiatives, promote sustainability, and address social issues. These partnerships strengthen our community engagement efforts and broaden our impact. Industry Collaborations: PROGMA engages with industry associations, chambers of commerce, and other business networks to stay informed about industry trends, advocate for business interests, and foster collaborative opportunities for growth and development.

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

5

06.02 The product/service represents an entirely new type of product/service.

3

06.03 The product/service could be described as a new technology.

2

06.04 The product/service is an improvement on an existing product or service.

6

06.05 The product/service could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

6

06.06 The product/service responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

6

06.07 The product/service is a new version of an old product/service.

5

06.08 Justification for my startup

In the marketing industry, many businesses offer services similar to those provided by PROGMA, such as digital marketing, brand management, and social media campaigns. However, our unique value proposition lies in our focus on supporting start-ups and SMEs in Malawi, tailoring our services to meet the specific needs of local businesses. While there is competition, our deep understanding of the regional market, commitment to affordable solutions, and dedication to empowering local enterprises set us apart from other service providers. This differentiation helps us attract and retain customers despite the presence of similar services in the market. PROGMA's services are indeed an improvement on existing marketing solutions available in the region. By focusing specifically on the needs of start-ups and SMEs in Malawi, we offer tailored and affordable marketing strategies that address their unique challenges. Our comprehensive approach includes market research, customized marketing plans,

06.09 Competitive Analysis

PROGMA faces competition from various marketing agencies operating in Malawi, including both local firms and international players. Key competitors include established agencies offering a range of digital and traditional marketing services to businesses across different sectors. What sets PROGMA apart is our specialized focus on supporting start-ups and SMEs in Malawi. Unlike many competitors who primarily target larger corporations or offer one-size-fits-all solutions, PROGMA tailors its services to meet the specific needs and constraints of small businesses. We provide affordable yet effective marketing strategies that include comprehensive market analysis, customized branding solutions, and targeted social media campaigns. Our deep understanding of the local market dynamics, coupled with our commitment to delivering tangible results for our clients, differentiates us and we prioritize building long-term partnerships.

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

Yes, Workshops and Seminars: Hosting workshops and seminars focused on empowering female entrepreneurs with skills in digital marketing, branding, and business management. Mentorship Programs: Establishing mentorship programs where successful female entrepreneurs can mentor aspiring women in business, providing guidance and support.