Nigeria - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Transforming African agriculture by bridging the gap between farmers and global markets through direct trade facilitation and sustainable farming initiatives.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Damo Export Trade Africa (DETA) is revolutionizing the agricultural sector in Africa by directly connecting farmers to global markets. Our mission is to solve the payment and market access issues that farmers face, ensuring they get paid through their preferred methods while buyers receive quality-verified products. We operate a Just-in-Time (JIT) model, eliminating the need for storage and warehousing, thereby increasing turnover and efficiency. Additionally, our AgriHealth initiative provides farmers with training, health services, and subsidized inputs, enhancing productivity and community well-being. In less than six months, we have generated $20,000 in revenue and empowered 250 farmers and women, setting the stage for significant growth and impact.

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

We address the critical issues of trust, payment terms, market access, and agricultural output for smallholder farmers in Africa. Farmers struggle with non-payment risks and limited market access, while buyers demand quality assurance and prefer deferred payment terms. This disconnect leaves farmers at a financial disadvantage despite their labor and risks. Our solution directly facilitates transactions between farmers and buyers, ensuring immediate payment for farmers and quality assurance for buyers. This model enhances farmers' profitability and growth while promoting sustainable agriculture.

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

Direct Market Access: Farmers gain direct access to global markets, eliminating intermediaries and ensuring fair pricing. Flexible Payment Terms: Farmers receive payments in their preferred methods (cash), while buyers are assured of quality and quantity through our Supply Quality Control (SQC) unit. Sustainable Agriculture: Our AgriHealth initiative improves productivity by providing training, health services, and subsidized inputs, fostering sustainable farming practices and community development.

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

Our services target smallholder farmers in Africa who face challenges with market access, payment terms, and agricultural productivity. We also serve global commodity buyers who seek reliable, quality-assured agricultural products from Africa. By bridging the gap between these two groups, we enhance farmers' livelihoods and ensure buyers receive high-quality products. Additionally, our AgriHealth initiative benefits local communities by providing essential health services, training, and support, contributing to overall community well-being and sustainable development.

01.05 When was your company established?

2024-01-19

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.)

Damilola brings 8+ years of sales & marketing prowess and 7 years in agro-commodities. With expertise in digital and traditional marketing, e-commerce, and partnership management, he's a proven leader driving growth and innovation. Investors seeking a visionary partner in agro-commodities will find a trusted ally in Damilola.

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/damoexporttradeafrica/

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

l) Farming

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

DETA contributes to the No Poverty goal by improving the income and livelihoods of smallholder farmers. By providing direct market access and ensuring fair payment terms, we increase farmers' profitability and reduce poverty levels. Our AgriHealth initiative further supports this goal by enhancing agricultural productivity and providing essential health services, leading to more sustainable income sources for rural communities.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

DETA addresses the Zero Hunger goal by promoting sustainable agriculture and improving food security. By providing farmers with quality inputs, training, and market access, we increase agricultural output and reduce post-harvest losses. Our AgriHealth initiative ensures that farmers are healthy and capable of maintaining high productivity levels, thereby contributing to the availability of nutritious food and reducing hunger.

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 AgriHealth initiative significantly contributes to the Good Health and Well-Being goal by providing essential health services and support to farmers and their families. By offering regular health check-ups, education on health practices, and access to affordable healthcare, we ensure that farmers remain healthy and productive. This not only improves their quality of life but also enhances their capacity to sustain agricultural activities and contribute to community well-being.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

DETA contributes to Quality Education by providing training and educational programs on sustainable and innovative farming practices. Through our AgriHealth initiative, we offer workshops and seminars that educate farmers and youth on modern agricultural techniques, financial literacy, and market trends. This empowers them with the knowledge and skills needed to improve their farming practices, increase productivity, and achieve economic stability.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

DETA actively promotes Gender Equality by empowering women farmers through training, support, and market access. Our initiatives ensure that women receive equal opportunities and resources to improve their agricultural practices and income. We also prioritize female participation in our programs and decision-making processes, fostering an inclusive environment that supports the growth and development of women in agriculture.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

3

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

While DETA's primary focus is on agriculture, we indirectly contribute to the Clean Water and Sanitation goal by promoting sustainable farming practices that reduce water usage and prevent pollution. Our training programs educate farmers on efficient water management techniques and the importance of maintaining clean water sources, thereby supporting broader environmental sustainability efforts.

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

DETA's operations include promoting the use of clean energy solutions in agriculture, such as solar-powered irrigation systems and energy-efficient equipment. By encouraging the adoption of these technologies, we help farmers reduce their reliance on non-renewable energy sources, lower their operational costs, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

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

DETA fosters Decent Work and Economic Growth by creating sustainable employment opportunities for farmers and their communities. By providing market access, fair payment terms, and training, we enhance farmers' productivity and income. Our model also supports local economies by encouraging investment in agriculture and promoting fair trade practices, leading to broader economic development and stability.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

DETA contributes to Industry Innovation and Infrastructure by implementing innovative solutions in agricultural supply chain management. Our Just-in-Time model eliminates the need for warehousing, increasing efficiency and reducing costs. Additionally, our Supply Quality Control (SQC) unit ensures that products meet global standards, fostering trust and reliability in trade. These innovations enhance the agricultural sector's infrastructure and promote sustainable industrialization.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

DETA aims to reduce inequalities by providing smallholder farmers with access to global markets and fair payment terms. Many of these farmers, including a significant number of women, have traditionally been marginalized and excluded from profitable trade opportunities. By offering training and resources, we empower them to produce high-quality goods that meet international standards, thus enhancing their economic opportunities. Additionally, our direct trade model ensures that farmers receive fair compensation for their products, bridging the income gap and promoting financial inclusion within rural communities.

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

DETA contributes to sustainable cities and communities by promoting agricultural practices that enhance the resilience and sustainability of rural and urban areas. Through our AgriHealth initiative, we improve the well-being of farmers, which directly affects the health and stability of their communities. By ensuring fair trade and reducing economic disparities, we foster social cohesion and economic stability. Furthermore, our focus on sustainable farming practices helps protect local ecosystems, contributing to the overall sustainability of 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

DETA ensures responsible consumption and production by implementing sustainable farming practices and reducing waste through our Just-in-Time (JIT) model. We train farmers on efficient resource use and sustainable agricultural methods, which minimize environmental impact. Our Supply Quality Control (SQC) unit guarantees that products meet international standards, promoting quality and sustainable consumption patterns. By facilitating direct trade, we reduce the carbon footprint associated with traditional supply chains and promote a circular economy.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

4

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

DETA takes climate action by promoting agricultural practices that reduce carbon emissions and enhance resilience to climate change. Our training programs include sustainable farming techniques such as crop rotation, organic fertilizers, and water conservation methods. We also encourage the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar-powered irrigation systems. By improving the sustainability of farming practices, we help mitigate the impacts of climate change and support the long-term viability of agriculture in Africa.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

3

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

While DETA's primary focus is on agriculture, our commitment to sustainable practices indirectly supports the Life Below Water goal. By promoting environmentally friendly farming techniques, we reduce agricultural runoff and pollution that can harm aquatic ecosystems. Our training on the use of organic and natural fertilizers helps protect water quality in nearby rivers and lakes, contributing to healthier marine environments and sustainable use of water resources.

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

DETA promotes the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems through our agricultural training programs, which include techniques for soil conservation, reforestation, and biodiversity preservation. We encourage practices that prevent land degradation, such as avoiding overgrazing and promoting crop diversity. Our focus on sustainable farming helps restore degraded lands, enhances soil fertility, and supports the conservation of local flora and fauna, thereby contributing to the protection and sustainable management of land resources.

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

DETA supports peace, justice, and strong institutions by fostering fair trade practices and promoting economic stability in rural communities. By providing farmers with equitable market access and ensuring transparent payment processes, we help build trust and reduce economic disparities. Our initiatives empower marginalized groups, including women and smallholder farmers, to participate actively in the economy, promoting social inclusion and reducing potential conflicts over resources.

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

DETA strengthens global partnerships by collaborating with international buyers, local governments, NGOs, and community organizations. These partnerships enable us to provide comprehensive support to farmers, from training and resources to market access. By working together with diverse stakeholders, we enhance the effectiveness of our initiatives, share knowledge and best practices, and contribute to the achievement of sustainable development goals on a global scale.

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.

6

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.

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.08 Justification for my startup

DETA’s approach combines innovative technology with traditional agriculture. Our JIT model and SQC unit represent new applications of existing concepts, improving supply chain efficiency and product quality. The direct trade platform we developed allows for transparent and fair transactions, meeting an unmet need for equitable market access. Our training programs and use of sustainable practices are extensions of existing services but tailored uniquely to empower smallholder farmers in Africa.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main competitors are traditional agricultural export companies and local traders. What sets us apart is our direct trade model that ensures fair compensation for farmers, our use of technology to streamline supply chains, and our commitment to sustainable practices. Unlike competitors, we offer comprehensive training and support to farmers, helping them meet international standards and improve their livelihoods. This holistic approach differentiates us and creates long-term benefits for our partners.

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

Yes. Examples: Organized workshops for female entrepreneurs, Trained, mentored and encourage women starting their own agro-processing business.