Nigeria - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Launching a shoemaking venture to create jobs, promote local craftsmanship, and offer sustainable, culturally inspired footwear

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Our shoemaking venture will create jobs, support local craftsmanship, and produce sustainable, culturally inspired footwear. By setting up a local workshop, we will provide employment and training, boosting the local economy. We use eco-friendly materials like responsibly sourced leather and recycled rubber, reducing our environmental impact. Our custom-made shoes minimize waste and overproduction. Our designs celebrate cultural heritage, offering unique and personalized footwear. We are committed to fair trade and ethical sourcing. Investing in our shoemaking venture means supporting a project that values people and the planet. Together, we can create stylish, high-quality, and sustainable shoes.

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

Our shoemaking venture tackles two key problems: unemployment and environmental impact. By setting up a local workshop, we create jobs and provide training, boosting the local economy and helping people develop valuable skills. We also address the environmental issues of mass-produced footwear. Traditional shoe manufacturing often leads to significant waste and uses harmful materials. Our approach uses eco-friendly materials like responsibly sourced leather and recycled rubber, reducing our carbon footprint. Custom-made shoes minimize waste and overproduction. Additionally, our culturally inspired designs celebrate and preserve local heritage, offering unique, personalized footwear. Investing in our venture supports job creation, sustainability, and cultural pride.

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

Our shoemaking venture offers several major benefits: 1. Job Creation: Establishing a local workshop provides employment and skill development, boosting the local economy. 2. Sustainability: We use eco-friendly materials like responsibly sourced leather and recycled rubber, reducing our environmental impact. 3. Waste Reduction: Custom-made shoes minimize waste and overproduction. 4. Unique Designs: Our culturally inspired footwear celebrates and preserves local heritage, offering unique, personalized products. 5. Quality and Durability: High-quality craftsmanship ensures long-lasting, comfortable shoes. 6. Ethical Practices: We commit to fair trade and responsible sourcing. Investing in our venture supports a business that values people, the planet, and cultural heritage, providing stylish, sustainable, and high-quality footwear.

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

Our shoemaking startup intend to serve: 1. Local Communities: Creating jobs and providing training to boost the local economy. 2. Eco-conscious Consumers: Offering eco-friendly footwear using sustainable materials. 3.Cultural Enthusiasts: Providing unique, culturally inspired designs that celebrate Nigerian heritage. 4.Quality Seekers: Crafting durable, high-quality shoes that last longer. 5.Ethical Shoppers: Committing to fair trade and responsible sourcing. By investing in our venture, you support a business that values people, the planet, and cultural heritage, providing stylish, sustainable, and high-quality footwear that positively impacts both the community and the environment.

01.05 When was your company established?

2023-09-03

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

20 and above

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

20 and above

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

In Nigeria, shoemakers boast extensive skills and experience. Traditional artisans have generations of expertise, using local materials and time-honored techniques to craft culturally rich designs. Small-scale entrepreneurs skillfully blend traditional craftsmanship with modern styles, selling through markets and online. Larger manufacturers have industrial expertise, producing a wide range of shoes at competitive prices. Though we are in our first year, our shoemaking project combines these strengths. We honor traditional techniques while integrating modern, sustainable practices. We prioritize quality, durability, and custom-made designs to minimize waste. Our culturally inspired footwear celebrates Nigerian heritage and appeals to both local and international markets. Additionally, our commitment to ethical sourcing and fair trade supports local communities and promotes sustainability, setting us apart in the Nigerian footwear market.

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

https://www.instagram.com/thebomhifootwear/

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: Fashion/Footwear manufacturing industry

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Our shoemaking project supports the UN's SDG No Poverty by creating jobs and providing skills training in local communities. By setting up a workshop, we offer employment opportunities, helping people support their families and boosting the local economy. We ensure fair wages and good working conditions, promoting economic stability for our workers. Through training programs, we equip individuals with valuable skills, improving their long-term job prospects. Our focus on sustainable and ethical practices supports a fair and inclusive economy. In essence, our project helps reduce poverty by providing jobs, fair wages, and skill development.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Our shoemaking project supports the UN's SDG Zero Hunger by creating jobs and providing fair wages, enabling workers to afford nutritious food for themselves and their families. By establishing a local workshop, we generate employment, which increases income and improves access to food. We ensure fair wages and good working conditions, helping workers achieve food security. Additionally, our community-focused approach includes offering training programs, which empower individuals with skills to sustain their livelihoods. By boosting local economies and supporting workers' financial stability, our project contributes to reducing hunger and improving overall well-being.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

Our shoemaking project aligns with the UN's SDG Good Health and Well-Being by creating a supportive and healthy work environment. We provide fair wages and ensure safe working conditions, reducing stress and improving mental health. Our training programs empower employees with skills, boosting their confidence and well-being. By promoting sustainable practices, we reduce environmental pollution, contributing to healthier communities. Additionally, by supporting local economies, we help improve access to healthcare and nutritious food for our workers and their families. Our commitment to ethical practices and community well-being directly enhances overall health and quality of life.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

3

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

Our shoemaking project slightly disagrees with the UN's SDG Quality Education as our primary focus is on job creation and sustainable practices rather than formal education. While we do offer training programs to equip workers with specific skills for shoemaking, these programs are more vocational and less comprehensive than traditional educational systems. Additionally, our resources are primarily allocated towards production and sustainability efforts rather than broader educational initiatives. Therefore, while we contribute to skill development, our impact on formal education and comprehensive learning opportunities is limited.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Our shoemaking project strongly supports the UN's SDG Gender Equality goal by promoting equal opportunities for all genders. We actively recruit and employ women, ensuring they receive the same fair wages and working conditions as men. Our training programs empower women with valuable skills, enhancing their career prospects and economic independence. By fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment, we help break down gender barriers and promote equal participation in the workforce. Additionally, our commitment to ethical practices ensures that all employees, regardless of gender, are treated with respect and dignity, contributing to a more equitable society.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

2

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

Our shoemaking project slightly disagrees with the UN's SDG Clean Water and Sanitation because our primary focus is on footwear production and sustainability rather than directly addressing water and sanitation issues. While we implement eco-friendly practices to reduce water pollution, our core activities do not significantly impact broader water access or sanitation infrastructure. Additionally, our resources are primarily allocated towards job creation and ethical sourcing, which limits our direct involvement in clean water and sanitation initiatives. Therefore, our contribution to this specific SDG is indirect and limited in scope.

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

Our shoemaking project neither strongly agrees nor disagrees with the UN's SDG Affordable and Clean Energy because energy use is not the primary focus of our operations. While we prioritize sustainability and use energy-efficient practices where possible, our main efforts are directed towards job creation, ethical practices, and sustainable materials. We do not specifically target energy production or consumption, and our impact on promoting affordable and clean energy is minimal. Therefore, while we support energy efficiency as part of our broader sustainability goals, it is not a central aspect of our project.

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

Our shoemaking project strongly supports the UN's SDG Decent Work and Economic Growth by creating quality jobs and fostering economic development. We provide fair wages, safe working conditions, and comprehensive training programs, ensuring decent work for all employees. By establishing a local workshop, we stimulate the local economy, boost employment, and promote skill development. Our commitment to ethical practices and sustainability ensures long-term economic viability and community growth. Through these efforts, we contribute to reducing poverty and inequality, driving inclusive economic progress and improving the overall quality of life for our workers and their families.

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

Our shoemaking project strongly supports the UN's SDG Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure goal by integrating modern, sustainable practices with traditional craftsmanship. We utilize innovative techniques and eco-friendly materials to produce high-quality footwear. Establishing a local workshop improves infrastructure and boosts the local economy. Our focus on custom-made designs reduces waste and promotes sustainability. By offering training programs, we enhance the skills of our workforce, fostering innovation. Our commitment to ethical practices and quality production helps build a resilient, forward-thinking industry, contributing to sustainable industrial growth and infrastructure development.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Our shoemaking project strongly supports the UN's SDG Reduced Inequalities goal by creating inclusive job opportunities and providing fair wages to all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or background. We offer training programs that empower marginalized communities with valuable skills, enhancing their economic prospects and reducing income disparities. Our commitment to ethical practices ensures fair treatment and equal opportunities for everyone. By focusing on diversity and inclusion, we help bridge the gap between different social groups, fostering a more equitable and just society. Our project directly contributes to reducing inequalities and promoting social inclusion.

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

Our shoemaking project strongly aligns with the UN's SDG Sustainable Cities and Communities by promoting local economic growth, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing community well-being. By creating jobs and providing fair wages, we boost local economies and help build resilient communities. We use eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices, reducing waste and pollution. Our culturally inspired designs celebrate local heritage, fostering a sense of community pride. Additionally, by supporting ethical sourcing and fair trade, we contribute to creating sustainable supply chains. This holistic approach helps build vibrant, sustainable cities and communities.

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

Our shoemaking project strongly aligns with the UN's SDG Responsible Consumption and Production by prioritizing sustainability and ethical practices. We use eco-friendly materials like responsibly sourced leather and recycled rubber, reducing our environmental footprint. Our custom-made shoes minimize waste and overproduction common in mass manufacturing. By promoting durable, high-quality footwear, we encourage consumers to buy less frequently, supporting a more sustainable consumption model. Additionally, we ensure fair trade and responsible sourcing, fostering a supply chain that values environmental and social responsibility. This approach helps create a more sustainable and equitable production process.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Our shoemaking project strongly aligns with the UN's SDG Climate Action by prioritizing sustainable and eco-friendly practices. We use responsibly sourced materials like recycled rubber and sustainably harvested leather, reducing our carbon footprint. Our custom-made production process minimizes waste and overproduction, common issues in the footwear industry. Additionally, we promote energy-efficient techniques and aim to reduce emissions throughout our supply chain. By committing to these environmentally conscious practices, our project actively contributes to combating climate change and promoting a healthier planet for future generations.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

3

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

Our project slightly disagrees with the SDG Life Below Water because our primary activities do not directly impact marine environments. While we prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility, our focus on shoemaking and local material sourcing means our efforts are more aligned with terrestrial ecosystems rather than aquatic ones. Therefore, our direct influence on marine conservation and life below water is limited.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

Our shoemaking project strongly aligns with the UN's SDG Life on Land by prioritizing sustainable and eco-friendly practices. We use responsibly sourced leather and recycled materials, reducing our impact on forests and wildlife habitats. Our production methods minimize waste and pollution, protecting local ecosystems. Additionally, we support ethical sourcing, ensuring that our materials come from suppliers who practice sustainable land management. By promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship, our project helps preserve biodiversity, protect natural habitats, and contribute to the health and well-being of terrestrial ecosystems. This commitment ensures that we positively impact life on land.

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

Our shoemaking project neither agrees nor disagrees with the UN's SDG Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions as our primary focus is on job creation, sustainability, and cultural heritage. While we adhere to ethical practices, fair wages, and safe working conditions, our activities do not directly address issues related to peace, justice, or institutional governance. Our project contributes positively to the local community by providing employment and supporting economic stability, but it does not engage in initiatives specifically aimed at promoting peace, legal justice, or strengthening institutions. Thus, our impact on this SDG is neutral.

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Our shoemaking project aligns with the UN's SDG Partnerships for the Goals by fostering collaborations and partnerships at various levels. We engage with local communities, suppliers, and stakeholders to promote sustainable practices and ethical sourcing. By collaborating with skilled artisans and craftsmen, we preserve cultural heritage and promote local talents. We also partner with organizations and initiatives that support fair trade and environmental sustainability, contributing to broader global goals. Through these partnerships, we create synergies that amplify our impact and drive positive change towards achieving sustainable development goals.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

2

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.

3

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.

3

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

3

06.08 Justification for my startup

Our shoemaking project caters to customers who already use similar products, extending the range of available footwear options. While our product isn't entirely new or based on new technology, it improves on existing footwear by enhancing quality, sustainability, and cultural significance. We build on familiar concepts but offer a superior, more meaningful choice for our customers.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our project faces competition from both local and international shoemakers. Local competitors include traditional artisans, small-scale shoemakers, and larger manufacturers. International competitors are well-known global footwear brands that mass-produce shoes with advanced technology and widespread distribution. What sets our project apart is our unique combination of traditional Nigerian craftsmanship with modern, sustainable practices. We use eco-friendly materials, create culturally inspired designs, and ensure fair wages and ethical practices. This focus on quality, sustainability, and cultural significance gives us an edge over both local and international competitors.

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

My active involvement in assisting female colleagues during my shoemaking learning phase and guiding other women in acquiring these skills reflects a deliberate effort to promote female entrepreneurship. By empowering women with practical knowledge and guidance in a traditionally male-dominated industry, I contribute to creating a more inclusive and diverse entrepreneurial landscape. This initiative not only fosters economic independence among women but also strengthens their role as leaders and innovators in the shoemaking sector, ultimately driving positive social and economic change.