Namibia - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

MoonSnacks, a Namibian youth-owned startup, creates innovative, sustainable snacks like the Peanut Burger—peanuts wrapped in a delicious biscuit.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

MoonSnacks, is a pioneering youth-owned Namibian food startup dedicated to transforming local snacking culture. Our flagship product, the Peanut Burger, merges locally sourced peanuts with a crispy biscuit shell, catering to Namibian tastes. Established in late 2022, MoonSnacks has rapidly gained traction despite initial challenges. We emphasize sustainability, using eco-friendly ingredients, and prioritize community impact through strategic partnerships with small scale farmers we source our peanuts from. Honored with the 2022 Sustainability Excellence Award by the NIPDB, we're poised for growth, expanding into major retail chains such as Choppies to broaden our impact and promote local value addition and economic development.

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

MoonSnacks addresses the scarcity of nutritious, locally sourced snacks in Namibia. Our flagship product, the Peanut Burger, combines sustainably sourced ingredients to offer a healthier alternative. By promoting local agriculture and economic growth through innovative snacking solutions, we aim to meet consumer demand for quality products while fostering sustainable development in our community.

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

Nutritional Value: MoonSnacks' Peanut Burger offers a balanced snack option, combining protein-rich peanuts with a wholesome biscuit shell, promoting sustained energy and satiety. Sustainability: Our products are crafted from locally sourced, eco-friendly ingredients, reducing carbon footprint and supporting local farmers, thus contributing to environmental preservation. Community Impact: By prioritizing local value addition, MoonSnacks stimulates economic growth in Namibia, creating job opportunities and fostering a sense of pride in locally produced goods.

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

MoonSnacks targets a diverse range of consumers in Namibia and beyond who value nutritious, locally sourced snacks. Our primary beneficiaries include health-conscious individuals seeking convenient and wholesome snack options. This demographic appreciates the nutritional benefits of our products, such as the Peanut Burger, which offers protein and fiber for sustained energy. Additionally, MoonSnacks caters to environmentally conscious consumers who prioritize sustainability. By using eco-friendly ingredients and supporting local farmers, we appeal to those who seek products aligned with their values of environmental stewardship. Furthermore, our snacks are designed to appeal to all age groups, from children to adults, across various socio-economic backgrounds. By promoting local value addition and economic growth, we contribute to community development, making our products accessible and beneficial to a wide spectrum of consumers in Namibia and potentially beyond.

01.05 When was your company established?

2022-11-01

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

1

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.)

Jesaya Hano-Oshike is a board memeber of Moonsnacks Investment Pty Ltd, and is an investment professional with a passion for social activism, entrepreneurship, and human development. He possesses a valuable understanding of the linkages between public, private, and civic organizations. Professionally, Jesaya has worked in bank treasury management, private equity/venture capital, and investment advisory. He is also a keen angel investor and serves on the board of several start-ups. Additionally, he is involved in the leadership of various civic organizations aimed at improving the social and economic outcomes of Namibia, including Physically Active Youth (PAY), I-Inspire Movement, Auas Rotary Club, and Namibia Business Angels Network (NABAN). Jesaya Hano-Oshike joined Moonsnacks in 2023 after investing as an Angel investor for 7.5% equity.

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

https://moonsnacksfoods.com/

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

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

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

MoonSnacks contributes to the No Poverty goal by creating job opportunities and supporting local farmers through sustainable sourcing of ingredients. By promoting local value addition, we stimulate economic growth and provide livelihoods for many in our community. Our operations help uplift low-income households, reduce unemployment, and enhance income stability, contributing directly to poverty alleviation. Additionally, our affordable, nutritious products improve food security and quality of life for consumers.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

MoonSnacks strongly contributes to the Zero Hunger goal by providing nutritious snacks like the Peanut Burger, which supports dietary needs and reduces hunger. We source ingredients locally, promoting sustainable agriculture and ensuring food security. Our affordable, high-quality snacks make nutritious food accessible to more people, particularly in underserved communities. Additionally, we support local farmers, improving their livelihoods and encouraging sustainable farming practices that enhance food production.

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

MoonSnacks contributes to the Good Health and Well-being goal by offering nutritious snacks like the Peanut Burger, which provides essential nutrients and supports healthier eating habits. Our products are designed to be a healthier alternative to traditional snacks, helping to reduce diet-related health issues. We also promote well-being by sourcing eco-friendly ingredients, ensuring our snacks are not only good for consumers but also for the environment, thus fostering a holistic approach to health.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

5

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

MoonSnacks contributes to the Gender Equality goal by fostering an inclusive workplace that prioritizes equal opportunities for all employees, regardless of gender. We actively promote gender diversity in our hiring practices and leadership roles. Additionally, we support women-owned local farms by sourcing ingredients from them, empowering women in the agricultural sector. Our commitment to fair wages and safe working conditions further ensures that women in our supply chain are valued and respected.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

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

MoonSnacks contributes to Decent Work and Economic Growth by creating jobs and supporting local economies. We employ local workers and ensure fair wages and safe working conditions, promoting productive employment. By sourcing ingredients from local farmers, we stimulate economic activity and support sustainable agriculture. Our commitment to local value addition helps drive inclusive economic growth, ensuring that benefits are widely shared within the community and fostering long-term economic stability.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

5

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

MoonSnacks contributes to Industry Innovation and Infrastructure by introducing innovative snack products like the Peanut Burger, which leverages locally sourced ingredients and sustainable production methods. We invest in modern production facilities and processes that enhance efficiency and resilience. Our focus on local value addition supports sustainable industrialization and encourages further innovation in the food sector. By collaborating with local suppliers, we also help strengthen regional infrastructure and industry networks.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

4

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

5

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

MoonSnacks contributes to the Sustainable Cities and Communities goal by promoting local economic development and supporting sustainable agricultural practices. Our use of eco-friendly packaging reduces waste and environmental impact, contributing to cleaner and safer urban environments. By sourcing locally and creating jobs within the community, we foster economic resilience and social inclusion. Our commitment to sustainability helps build communities that are more resilient, inclusive, and environmentally conscious.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

MoonSnacks contributes to the Responsible Consumption and Production goal by prioritizing sustainable sourcing of ingredients and eco-friendly packaging. We support a circular economy by reducing waste and promoting recycling. Our focus on local value addition minimizes our carbon footprint and supports sustainable agricultural practices. By educating consumers on the benefits of our environmentally responsible products, we encourage more sustainable consumption patterns and contribute to the global effort for sustainability.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

2

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

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

2

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

3

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

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

3

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

4

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

3

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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.

6

06.08 Justification for my startup

06.09 Competitive Analysis

MoonSnacks faces competition from traditional snack brands and emerging health-focused startups. What sets us apart is our dedication to locally sourced, sustainable ingredients, supporting community development and eco-friendly practices. Our flagship product, the Peanut Burger, blends local flavors with nutritional value, appealing to health-conscious consumers. We prioritize affordability and accessibility, ensuring our snacks reach a wide audience through strategic retail partnerships. By innovating with unique flavors and maintaining a commitment to sustainability and value, MoonSnacks stands out in the competitive snack industry.

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