Nigeria - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Olpa.ng is an agritech platform transforming farming by connecting farmers to buyers with real-time market prices, offering pest and disease management tools, environmental monitoring, and an e-commerce marketplace, alongside training services.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Olpa.ng is revolutionizing the agricultural industry by bridging the gap between farmers and buyers through an innovative agritech platform. Our services provide real-time market prices and logistics support, ensuring farmers get the best value for their produce. We offer cutting-edge tools for pest and disease management, as well as environmental monitoring, to help farmers maintain healthy crops and make informed decisions. Our e-commerce marketplace simplifies the buying and selling process, making it easier for farmers to access necessary inputs and reach a broader market. Additionally, we empower farmers with training and advisory services, leveraging AI and machine learning to provide personalized recommendations and improve farming practices. Olpa.ng is dedicated to enhancing productivity, reducing costs, and promoting sustainable farming practices, ultimately transforming traditional farming into a more efficient and profitable endeavor.

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

The main problem Olpa.ng aims to solve is the disconnect between farmers and the market, which results in inefficiencies, lower incomes, and higher costs. Traditional farming practices often leave farmers isolated from potential buyers and without access to real-time market data or modern tools for pest and disease management. Farmers also face challenges with environmental unpredictability and lack of quality training and advisory services. Olpa.ng tackles these issues by offering a comprehensive platform that includes real-time market prices, logistics support, and an e-commerce marketplace, directly connecting farmers with buyers. Our pest and disease management tools, along with environmental monitoring, help farmers maintain healthy crops and make informed decisions. Our training and advisory services use Ai and free MOOC's learning to provide personalized recommendations, This approach aims to boost farmers' profitability and resilience, transforming the agricultural landscape.

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

www.Olpa.ng offers several major benefits for farmers: Increased Market Access: Olpa.ng connects farmers directly with buyers, including processors and consumers, through its e-commerce marketplace. This eliminates middlemen, allowing farmers to get better prices for their produce and access real-time market data to make informed selling decisions. Enhanced Crop Management: The platform provides advanced tools for pest and disease management and environmental monitoring. These tools help farmers maintain healthy crops, reduce losses, and increase yields by making data-driven decisions. Support and Training: Olpa.ng offers training and advisory services that leverage AI and machine learning to provide personalized recommendations. This support helps farmers adopt best practices, improve their farming techniques, and increase productivity, leading to more sustainable and profitable farming operations.

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

Olpa.ng's product and services are aimed at serving household consumers, small to medium holder farmers who are often isolated from broader markets and lack access to advanced farming tools and real-time data. These farmers are the primary beneficiaries, as the platform provides them with critical resources to improve their productivity and profitability. The platform also targets agricultural buyers, such as processors and consumers, by offering a streamlined marketplace to source fresh produce directly from farmers. Olpa.ng serves agricultural suppliers who can connect with farmers to provide inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and equipment through the e-commerce marketplace. By focusing on these groups, Olpa.ng aims to create a more efficient and connected agricultural ecosystem, benefiting farmers with better market access, enhanced crop management, and comprehensive training, while also providing buyers and suppliers with reliable and direct access to the agricultural market.

01.05 When was your company established?

2023-05-01

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

No

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

5

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

2

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

1. Ms. Ifuku Oluwafunmilayo Esther,a 26 year old CEO & Co-founder of Olpa.ng, utilizes her expertise in event management, crisis communication, and relationship building, alongside her strong analytical and communication skills, to propel results and empower her team. 2.Furo Erenyanate is the C.O.O of olpa.ng she is a seasoned Renewable Energy Specialist with a proven track record in business development. Her passion for sustainability fuels her work, and she leverages her expertise to secure stakeholder engagement for renewable energy projects. Furo's top skills include Business Development, Renewable Energy, and Stakeholder Engagement. 3. Mr. Preye David, C.F.O. Olpa.ng, is a graduate of Computer Science from Igbenidion University, Mr. David brings a unique blend of technical expertise and agricultural experience to Olpa.ng. This second-generation farmer leverages his passion for agriculture with his financial acumen, serving as the company's CFO.

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

https://www.olpa.ng/

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

l) Farming

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Olpa.ng enhances the economic stability of small to medium-scale farmers by providing direct market access, better pricing for produce, and reducing dependency on middlemen. By increasing farmers' income and reducing costs through efficient logistics and advanced crop management tools, Olpa.ng plays a significant role in alleviating poverty in agricultural communities

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Olpa.ng directly addresses food security by helping farmers increase their crop yields through advanced pest and disease management, environmental monitoring, and personalized farming advice. Improved productivity and efficient distribution channels to ensure a more stable and abundant food supply, contributing significantly to reducing hunger.

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

6

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

Olpa.ng contributes to good health and well-being by promoting sustainable farming practices that lead to healthier food production. By offering pest and disease management tools, the platform helps reduce the use of harmful pesticides, ensuring safer and healthier crops. Access to real-time environmental data and personalized advisory services enables farmers to adopt Good Agricultural Practices(GAP), which can improve the overall quality of produce. Moreover, by increasing farmers' income and reducing financial stress, especially in times like this it creates direct market access and better pricing, Olpa.ng indirectly supports mental and emotional well-being. Economic stability is closely linked to improved health outcomes, as it allows individuals to afford better healthcare, nutrition, and living conditions.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

Olpa.ng significantly contributes to quality education by providing farmers with access to valuable training and educational resources. The platform offers a range of learning opportunities, including: Training and Advisory Services: Olpa.ng provides farmers with personalized training programs and advisory services that leverage AI and machine learning to deliver tailored recommendations. These services cover various aspects of modern farming techniques, pest and disease management, and environmental sustainability, helping farmers improve their knowledge and skills. Educational Content: The platform includes educational materials that inform farmers about best practices in agriculture, sustainable farming methods, and innovative technologies. This content is designed to be accessible and practical, ensuring that farmers can easily apply what they learn to their daily operations. Lifelong Learning: By continuously offering updates and new training modules and more.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Olpa.ng contributes to gender equality by providing equal access to its resources, training, and market opportunities for both men and women in agriculture. The platform does not discriminate based on gender and ensures that all farmers, regardless of their gender, have access to the same tools, training programs, and market access. Olpa.ng actively promotes the empowerment of women in agriculture by offering targeted training and support initiatives. This includes educational programs specifically designed to address the unique challenges faced by women farmers, such as access to land, financial resources, and decision-making power within households.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

Olpa.ng contributes to the Clean Water and Sanitation goal by promoting sustainable agricultural practices that help conserve water and protect water quality. Here's how: Water-Efficient Practices: The platform provides farmers with tools and advisory services that encourage the adoption of water-efficient farming techniques, such as drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting. These methods help reduce water usage and ensure that water resources are used more sustainably. Environmental Monitoring: Olpa.ng's environmental monitoring tools enable farmers to track soil moisture levels and weather patterns, allowing them to optimize their irrigation schedules. This reduces water wastage and ensures that crops receive the right amount of water at the right time. Pesticide and Fertilizer Management: By offering advanced pest and disease management tools, Olpa.ng helps farmers minimize the use of harmful pesticides and fertilizers.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

5

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

While Olpa.ng primarily focuses on enhancing agricultural practices and market access, its contribution to the Affordable and Clean Energy goal is indirect and limited. Here’s how the platform could potentially align with SDG 7: Promoting Sustainable Practices: By encouraging sustainable farming practices, Olpa.ng indirectly supports the use of energy-efficient techniques. For instance, efficient irrigation systems and reduced reliance on chemical inputs can lower the energy consumption of farming operations. Educational Resources: Olpa.ng’s training programs could include information on renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technologies for farming, such as solar-powered irrigation pumps and energy-efficient machinery. Educating farmers about these options can lead to increased adoption of clean energy solutions.

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

By modernizing farming practices and providing better market access, Olpa.ng creates more economic opportunities for farmers and related industries. The platform supports decent work by promoting sustainable farming practices and fostering economic growth in rural areas through increased agricultural productivity and profitability.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Technological Integration: Olpa.ng leverages advanced technologies such as AI and machine learning to provide personalized recommendations and real-time data to farmers. This promotes innovation by enabling data-driven farming practices that improve efficiency and productivity. Infrastructure Development: The platform enhances agricultural infrastructure by providing an e-commerce marketplace that connects farmers with buyers and suppliers. This digital infrastructure reduces barriers to market access, streamlines logistics, and supports a more resilient agricultural supply chain. Support for Sustainable Practices: By promoting sustainable farming practices and efficient resource management, Olpa.ng contributes to the development of a more sustainable agricultural industry. This aligns with the goal of fostering sustainable industrialization.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Market Access for Small Farmers: Olpa.ng connects small and medium-scale farmers directly to buyers, eliminating middlemen and ensuring fairer prices for their produce. This helps level the playing field for smaller farmers who typically have less market power. Inclusive Training Programs: The platform offers training and advisory services that are accessible to all farmers, including those in remote and underserved areas. By providing knowledge and skills to a broader audience, Olpa.ng helps reduce disparities in agricultural productivity and income. Economic Empowerment: By improving market access and offering tools that enhance farming efficiency, Olpa.ng helps increase the income and economic stability of smallholder farmers. This economic empowerment contributes to reducing income inequalities within the agricultural community.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

Sustainable Agriculture: By providing tools and training for sustainable farming methods, Olpa.ng helps reduce the environmental impact of agriculture. This includes efficient resource use and minimizing harmful inputs, contributing to the overall sustainability of rural and urban communities. Economic Stability: Olpa.ng enhances the economic resilience of farming communities by improving market access and increasing farmers’ income. Economic stability in rural areas supports balanced regional development and reduces the migration pressure on urban areas, contributing to more sustainable cities. Community Empowerment: The platform empowers local farmers through education and technological integration, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. Empowered and economically stable communities are better equipped to contribute to the sustainability of their cities and regions. Through these initiatives, Olpa.ng supports the development of sustainable cities.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

Olpa.ng promotes sustainable agricultural practices by providing tools for efficient resource management, reducing waste, and encouraging environmentally friendly farming methods. The e-commerce marketplace also supports responsible consumption by connecting consumers with locally sourced, sustainably grown produce.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

6

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

The platform's environmental monitoring tools help farmers adapt to climate change by providing data on weather patterns and soil conditions, allowing for better planning and resource management. While Olpa.ng contributes to climate action, its primary focus remains on improving agricultural productivity and market access.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

5

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

Reducing Agricultural Runoff: Olpa.ng promotes sustainable farming practices that minimize the use of harmful pesticides and fertilizers. By reducing the runoff of these chemicals into water bodies, the platform helps protect aquatic ecosystems from pollution and eutrophication. Environmental Monitoring: The platform's environmental monitoring tools help farmers make informed decisions about water usage and soil health, which can reduce the impact of farming on nearby rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. Better water management practices lead to less contamination and sedimentation in aquatic environments. Training and Education: Olpa.ng provides education on sustainable farming techniques that include proper waste management and water conservation. Educating farmers about the broader environmental impact of their practices helps ensure they adopt methods that protect life below water.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

Olpa.ng's pest and disease management tools, along with its focus on sustainable farming practices, help protect and restore ecosystems. By promoting environmentally friendly methods and reducing the use of harmful pesticides, Olpa.ng contributes to preserving biodiversity and maintaining healthy land ecosystems.

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

5

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Economic Stability: By improving market access and increasing the income of small and medium-scale farmers, Olpa.ng contributes to economic stability in rural areas. Economic stability is a crucial factor in reducing poverty-related conflicts and promoting peaceful communities. Transparency and Fair Trade: The platform fosters transparency in agricultural markets by providing real-time data on market prices and direct connections between farmers and buyers. This reduces exploitation by middlemen and ensures fair trade practices, contributing to economic justice. Empowerment and Education: Olpa.ng empowers farmers through training and access to information, promoting self-reliance and informed decision-making. Educated and empowered communities are better equipped to advocate for their rights and engage with local institutions, fostering stronger and more resilient institutions.

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Olpa.ng exemplifies strong alignment with SDG 17 by fostering extensive and strategic partnerships. We collaborate with agricultural suppliers, buyers, logistics providers, and tech companies to enhance market access and improve supply chains. Partnerships with educational institutions and NGOs help disseminate knowledge and implement sustainable farming practices. Additionally, collaborations with government agencies support policy advocacy and resource mobilization. These efforts collectively strengthen our capability to promote sustainable agricultural practices and ensure equitable growth, contributing significantly to the goals of SDG 17.

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.

6

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.

5

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

5

06.08 Justification for my startup

New Technology: We integrate advanced technologies such as AI and machine learning to offer personalized farming advice and predictive analytics. These innovations help farmers optimize their practices and increase productivity. The use of real-time data for market prices, pest and disease management, and environmental monitoring represents a technological leap in agritech solutions. Improvement on Existing Services: While there are existing platforms that connect farmers to markets, Olpa.ng improves upon these by offering a comprehensive suite of services. Our platform combines market access, logistics, pest and disease management, and training into one seamless solution, providing greater value and convenience to farmers.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

1. FarmCrowdy: An agritech platform that connects farmers with sponsors who provide the needed funds for their agricultural projects. 2. Thrive Agric: Offers investment opportunities in agriculture and provides support for farmers in terms of funding, training, and market access. 3. Hello Tractor: Connects tractor owners with farmers who need tractor services, promoting efficient use of machinery in farming. 4. Releaf: Focuses on industrializing food processing in Africa, providing tech-driven solutions to improve the supply chain from farm to factory. Unlike our competitors who focus on specific aspects such as funding or machinery, Olpa.ng provides an all-in-one platform that includes real-time market prices, logistics support, pest and disease management tools, environmental monitoring, and an e-commerce marketplace.

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

Yes, Olpa.ng actively promotes the role of female entrepreneurs through several initiatives. We conduct workshops and training sessions tailored for women in agriculture, covering modern farming techniques, business management, and financial literacy. Our mentorship programs pair experienced female agripreneurs with new entrants, providing guidance and support. We also ensure equal access to tools, resources, and financial opportunities, collaborating with financial institutions to offer microloans and grants.Also, we organize networking events and forums for women to connect, share experiences, and explore collaboration opportunities. These actions foster an inclusive environment, supporting and elevating female entrepreneurs in agriculture.