Nigeria - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Description of my Business, The name of my business is ughanaya bless boutique, located in calabar south, cross river state. We specializ in sewing & selling of already made Wears for both male and female like skirt, gown, ,shirt, trousers, shoes,

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

This is how I got my business idea : Before, young men and women in my rural community do travel to different location (town) to buy cloth and footwear, spending money on transport and sometime getting involve in accident on the highway,So I felt that having a good fashion outlet and buy these clothes in bulk from manufacturer and sell to the peoples in the remote area, it will really save money in transportation and reduce accident on the highway.

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

Solution This is how my business is currently this problem: If you check the internet you will find out that ninety eight point one million people (98.1million) people live in rural areas in Nigeria and most big store like shoprite and the rest don’t build store in such places.my Business is designed to be the go to clothing store for the ninety eight point one million rural dwellers in Nigeria. Saving them millions of naira in transportation fee annually and to save them from getting involved in an accident on the highway .

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

Benefit: The business will benefit the CEO by providing an opportunity for self employment. The benefit of my boutique business to rural dwellers include, creating Job opportunity for the youths in the community,saving time by not having to travel to larger city to shop, saving millions of naira by not having to pay for travel cost, and finding fashionable clothing and footwear that fits their personal style. Creating skills acquisition for the youths that are interested in learning sewing .

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

Target Audience/Customer: According to national bureau of statistic, ₦906.682 billion is spent on clothing and footwear by rural dwellers in Nigeria every year. I intent to serve at least 10,000 rural customers in our first five years of business with cloth and footwears at their doostep saving them money in transportation.

01.05 When was your company established?

2021-12-02

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.)

They specialize in selling second hand wears know okrika .

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/agu.blessing.3572

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: Fashion and design

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

1 .Skill Development and Training: my Boutique business often provide opportunities for skill development and training, helping to upskill local residents and contributing to the overall human capital development in the area. 2.Local Economic Development: my Boutique business stimulate local economic growth by providing employment opportunities and supporting other local businesses such as suppliers and service providers. In future, my boutique business would attract tourist to my rural area', this would contribute to the development of tourism infrastructure and bringing in revenue that benefits the entire community.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

1 I Offer employment opportunities , this Provide employment opportunities within my boutique, especially to individuals facing food insecurity or other challenges. By offering stable employment in my company with fair wages, It help improve the economic well-being of individuals in the community . 2.Donate a percentage of my profits , Allocate a percentage of my boutique to community food programs. This provide direct support to those facing food insecurity in the area.

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

Accessibility:I Ensure my products and services such as health-conscious products such as organic skincare and eco-friendly clothing. are accessible to all members of the community, including those with disabilities or limited resources. I Consider offering discounts and promotions for those in need. 2. I participate in Volunteer Programs, Engage in community service and volunteer programs that focus on health and well-being. This involve organizing a health camps, and collaborating with local healthcare providers.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

1. Education Support Initiatives: I Allocate a portion of my boutique's profits to educational programs. This involve donating percentage of my sales to fund educational materials, scholarships in the community. 2. Internship and Training Programs: I Offer internship opportunities for local students interested in fashion design, retail management, marketing, or related fields. This provide valuable hands-on experience and skill development for students in my rural areas. 3. Skill Development Workshops:Organize a training sessions for students on topics like fashion design, entrepreneurship, business management, and marketing. These initiatives help students acquire new skills and knowledge that can benefit them in their future careers.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

1. I Offer Employment Opportunities, Employment Equality: I Ensure fair employment practices, providing equal opportunities for all genders. Training and Skill Development: I Offer training programs that focus on skill development and career advancement for all employees. 2. I Supporting Local Artisans and Women Entrepreneurs, Source Products, Collaborate with local women artisans and entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their products in My boutique. I Provide training, resources, and a platform for women entrepreneurs to grow their businesses. 3.Community Engagement and Education, I Organize workshops on topics like financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and leadership aimed at empowering women in the community.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

I always involved myself in Community' Clean-Up Events, I participate in clean-up events in my local area to prevent water pollution and improve sanitation. I Engage with the community and show my commitment to environmental stewardship. I also Organize a workshops focused on water conservation, sanitation, and hygiene practices for my staff and customers. I am planning to Implement water-saving strategies within my boutique, such as installing low-flow faucets and toilets, fixing leaks promptly, and using water-efficient appliances.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

1. Solar Energy Integration ,I Install solar panels on my boutique's roof to generate clean energy. Excess power is been stored in batteries into the grid, helping to reduce electricity costs and reliance on non-renewable sources. I also Implement energy-efficient practices such as using LED bulbs in some parts of my boutique, for energy-saving appliances, and timers for lighting and cooling systems. This help me to reduce overall energy consumption and costs. I Encourage my employees to adopt sustainable practices, such as using public transportation, to reduce their carbon footprint. Foster a culture of sustainability within my boutique.

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

I frequently organize a Financial literacy education for employees and community members. Because I know Empowering individuals with financial knowledge can lead to better money management and economic stability. I creat Employment opportunities for the youths in the community both male and female, This help reduce unemployment rates and improve the overall economic situation. I organize a fashion design Skills development , because I know that Offering a training and development opportunities to my employee and the youths in the community , because I know that organizing a fashion design training would enhance their skill sets, making them more employable.

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

I Implement technology solutions in my business operations such as online sales platforms, and digital marketing. Because Embracing technology improve efficiency, reach a wider customer base. I Advocate for infrastructure improvements in my community, such as a better community town hall, Road etc. Because Improving infrastructure can benefit all businesses in the area and attract more customers and investors. I Showcase the unique products and experiences my boutique business offers to attract customers and boost the local economy. with this ,I can indirectly support infrastructure development and stimulate further innovation in related industries.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

I Offer clothing options that cater to all body types at affordable prices, promoting inclusivity in fashion. I Create an online presence for my boutique to reach a wider audience and provide access to those who may not be able to visit the physical store. In future I will Raise awareness about social issues such as inequality and promote social inclusion through campaigns and events.

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

I Educate Customers, Raise awareness among my customers and community members about sustainable practices and the importance of supporting local businesses. I Provide information on the sustainability aspects of products i sell and how their choices can make a positive impact. I Implement energy-efficient practices in my boutique, such as using LED lighting, optimizing cooling systems, and ensuring that appliances are energy-efficient.

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

I Educate my customers about the importance of responsible consumption and production. I Explain the impact of their purchasing decisions on the environment and local communities. Encourage them to buy quality products that will last longer. I Collaborate with local initiatives,Partner with local organization that promote sustainable practices and responsible consumption. This help amplify my impact and reach a wider audience. I am transparent about my sourcing and production processes. I Share information about where my products come from, how they are made, and the impact of my business practices on the environment and local communities.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

I Choose suppliers that offer products made from sustainable materials ,recycled fabrics. I Ensure that my boutique minimizes energy consumption by using energy-efficient lighting, appliances, and cooling systems. Promote sustainable fashion**: Educate your customers about the environmental impact of fast fashion and promote the benefits of sustainable and ethical fashion choices. Encourage them to buy quality, timeless pieces that last longer.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

4

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

In future I will Partner with local artisans who create products inspired by marine life or use sustainable practices in their craftsmanship. By promoting their work, I can raise awareness about marine conservation issues and support local economies. I will also host Educational events that would educate my customers and the community about the importance of marine conservation. I will also invite local experts to speak on topics such as plastic pollution, marine biodiversity, or sustainable fishing practices.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

4

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

Concerning energy efficiency, I Switch to energy-efficient lighting and appliances in my boutique. I Consider using renewable energy sources like solar panels. I Implement energy-saving practices such as turning off lights and equipment when not in use. Soon I will create Education and Awareness, Educate my customers and community about the importance of sustainable living and ethical consumerism. I will Provide information on the environmental impact of products and ways to make more sustainable choices. - Collaborate with other businesses or organizations that share similar sustainability goals.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Transparency and accountability: I Maintain transparency in My business practices, such as pricing, sourcing, and operations, to build trust with customers and stakeholders. I Implement fair labor practices, ensure worker safety, and comply with relevant laws and regulations to uphold ethical standards . In Community engagement and empowerment, I Organize a fashion design skill development training programs for community members to enhance their skills and employability.

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

I Focus on empowering women and marginalized groups by providing them with opportunities for employment, training, and entrepreneurship. This contribute to SDG 5 on Gender Equality and SDG 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth . I Support local artisans, I Partner with local artisans and craftsmen to source handmade products such as hand fan, head cap etc for my boutique. By doing so, i know that am supporting local talent, preserve traditional craftsmanship, and help in economic development within the community.

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

4

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.

2

06.08 Justification for my startup

By identifying a gap in the market or a unique selling point that differentiates our product/service from existing offerings, we have the opportunity to carve out a distinct market niche and capture a portion of the customer base that is currently underserved. Learning from the weaknesses of existing products/services and incorporating innovative features or improvements can make our offering more compelling to customers and help us stand out in a crowded market. I strongly agreeing that the product/service represents an entirely new type of offering, we are acknowledging the potential for differentiation, innovation, and competitive advantage that comes with introducing a groundbreaking solution to the market. Introducing a completely new type of product/service can signify a high level of innovation and creativity within the market. This uniqueness can help capture the attention of customers who are looking for novel solutions to their needs. I agree that the product/service can be

06.09 Competitive Analysis

My competitors are the big stores like ShopRite ,spar peace clothing and the rest ,they are not even ready to setup an outlet in such remote area because it will crumble their business model. The way my business work is very simple: We source the most demanded clothing and footwear from major dealers and distributors in the city and bring them to the rural areas and display them in our stores. The Unique Selling Proposition : Ughanya bless boutique bring affordable, fashionable clothing and footwear directly to rural customers at their doorstep. The unique selling advantage of my business is that we are saving millions of transportation fees for the rural dwellers who live in villages by bringing their desire clothing and footwear brand closer to them. This is something the big store cannot do. It will crumble their business model. As a rural dweller, I understand the buying behavior of the customers.

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

Yes I always organize a fashion design training for the females in the community and also I always creat a job opportunity in my boutique for the females to promote the role of females entrepreneurs.