Nigeria - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Eco-Gluxuries is a fashion and beauty brand for classy women, offering bespoke fashion, hairs and makeup services. We declutter old clothes, rent attires, and collect wasted fabrics and recyclables to support the less privileged and offset carbon.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Eco-Gluxuries is a 3-months old fashion and beauty startup in Lagos dedicated to combining elegance with sustainability. We offer bespoke services, including personalized styling, premium fashion accessories, hairstyling, and professional makeup services for classy women. Our unique approach integrates environmental responsibility by promoting the decluttering, recycling, and renting of fashion items and hairs. We collect old clothes, wasted fabrics, plastics, and other recyclables from fashion and beauty vendors to minimize waste and support carbon offsetting. Funds generated from these initiatives are directed towards empowering less privileged women and teenagers through skilsl training programs and providing basic kits, fostering economic independence and personal growth. We create a seamless blend of style and sustainability, aligning with SDG Goals. Our mission is to build an eco-friendly, empowering community that champions both luxury fashion and environmental stewardship.

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

Eco-Gluxuries aims to solve the environmental impact of fashion and beauty industries while empowering women, aligning with SDG Goals 1,3, 5, 8.11,12, and 13. Fast fashion and beauty products contribute significantly to waste, pollution, and carbon emissions. Additionally, many women, especially the less privileged, lack access to opportunities and resources for personal and professional growth. Our solution addresses these issues by promoting sustainable practices such as decluttering, recycling, and renting fashion items. We collect old clothes, wasted fabrics, plastics, and other recyclables from fashion and beauty vendors to reduce waste and support carbon offsetting. Funds from these initiatives support skills empowerment and provide startup kits for women and teenagers, helping them achieve self-sufficiency. Through Eco-Gluxuries, we foster an eco-friendly and empowering community for women, combining sustainability with style, and supporting global sustainability goals.

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

Eco-Gluxuries major benefits and advantages are: Environmental Sustainability: By promoting the decluttering, recycling, and renting of fashion items, Eco-Gluxuries significantly reduces waste and pollution, contributing to a cleaner environment and aligning with SDG Goals 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and 13 (Climate Action). Empowerment and Support: Eco-Gluxuries empowers women and teenagers by providing skills training and startup kits, helping them achieve self-sufficiency and fostering economic growth. This aligns with SDG Goal 1 and 5 as it creates opportunities for women to thrive. Classy and Eco-Friendly Fashion: Eco-Gluxuries provides a stylish and sustainable alternative to fast fashion. Our bespoke services, fashion accessories, perfumes, hairs, and makeup cater to classy women who value both elegance and environmental responsibility, enhancing their personal style while making eco-conscious choices.

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

targets classy, eco-conscious women who value style and sustainability in their fashion and beauty choices. Our primary beneficiaries are. Classy Women: Those seeking bespoke fashion services, high-quality accessories, perfumes, hairs, and professional makeup services that align with their elegant lifestyles and environmental values. Less Privileged Women and Teenagers: We support women and teenagers from underprivileged backgrounds by providing skills training, empowerment programs, and startup kits, helping them achieve economic independence and personal growth. Fashion and Beauty Vendors: Vendors benefit from our recycling programs, which help them manage waste sustainably, reducing their environmental impact. Eco-Conscious Consumers: Individuals who prioritize sustainable consumption benefit from our rental services, decluttering initiatives, and recycling programs, enabling them to make eco-friendly choices easily.

01.05 When was your company established?

2024-03-01

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?

1

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

Gloria Francis, the sole owner of Eco-Gluxuries, holds a BSc in Biochemistry from the University of Calabar, Nigeria, and is a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability, climate change, and female empowerment. With over 4 years as Administrative Executive and with her recent role at RESWAYE, focusing on recycling and empowerment initiatives, she brings extensive experience in administration, waste management, underemployment, and poverty alleviation. As a Girls/Women Speak Ambassador, Gloria leverages her platform to empower women further. Her entrepreneurial journey with Eco-Gluxuries integrates her passion for fashion and beauty with a commitment to environmental sustainability. Gloria envisions Eco-Gluxuries as not only a stylish brand but also a catalyst for positive change, aligning with SDG Goals 5, 12, and 13. Her leadership drives impactful initiatives that empower women through skills training and startup support, aiming to create a sustainable and inclusive future.

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

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloria-nk-francis

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: Circular Economy and Fashion/Beauty

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

5

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

By addressing systemic barriers and empowering women and teenagers from underprivileged backgrounds. While our primary focus is on sustainable fashion and beauty, we recognize the interconnectedness of poverty and environmental sustainability. Empowerment through Skills Training: We provide skills training programs that equip women and teenagers with marketable skills in fashion, beauty, and entrepreneurship. By enhancing their capabilities, we enable them to access income-generating opportunities and break the cycle of poverty. Startup Kits and Support: Eco-Gluxuries offers startup kits to empower individuals to start their own small businesses. These kits are basic essentials needed to launch and sustain their enterprises, fostering economic independence and resilience. Promoting Inclusive Growth: We strive to promote inclusive economic growth. By supporting women and teenagers who face socio-economic challenges, we contribute to building resilient communities.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

3

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

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

Eco-Gluxuries contributes to SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being through its initiatives that promote sustainable lifestyles, well-being, and awareness. By advocating for sustainable fashion and beauty practices, Eco-Gluxuries encourages consumers to make conscious choices that prioritize health and environmental well-being. This includes promoting natural and organic beauty products that are safer for both individuals and the environment. Through skills training and empowerment programs, Eco-Gluxuries enhances the mental well-being of women and teenagers. By providing opportunities for personal growth and economic empowerment, we contribute to reducing stress and anxiety associated with financial instability. Eco-Gluxuries raises awareness about health issues related to conventional beauty products and promotes alternatives that are free from harmful chemicals and toxins.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

2

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Eco-Gluxuries contributes to SDG 5 - Gender Equality through its commitment to empowering women and promoting equal opportunities in the fashion, beauty, and entrepreneurial sectors. Eco-Gluxuries provides skills training programs that empower women with knowledge and expertise in fashion, beauty, and entrepreneurship. By equipping them with these skills, we enable women to pursue careers and economic opportunities. As a female-owned business, Eco-Gluxuries exemplifies female leadership in the fashion and beauty industry. We strive to inspire and empower women to take on leadership roles, challenge stereotypes, and contribute to shaping a more gender-equal society. Eco-Gluxuries offers startup kits and resources to women interested in starting their own businesses in the fashion and beauty sectors. By providing access to tools and guidance, we facilitate entrepreneurship and entrepreneurship and economic independence among women.

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

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

2

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

5

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

Creates employment opportunities through its operations in fashion, beauty, and related services. By expanding our business and reaching new markets, we generate jobs for professionals in design, styling, makeup artistry, and customer service. Provide support for small businesses, particularly those owned by women, through our startup kits and resources. By providing essential tools and guidance, we enable entrepreneurs to establish and grow their enterprises, contributing to local economic development and supporting economic growth. Prioritizes fair labor practices within our supply chain and business operations by collaborating with suppliers and partners who adhere to ethical standards, ensuring that workers receive fair wages and operate in safe working conditions. Through skills training programs, Eco-Gluxuries enhances the capabilities of individuals interested in pursuing careers in the fashion and beauty industries.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

4

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

3

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

Urban Sustainability: Eco-Gluxuries promotes sustainable living in urban areas through initiatives like recycling programs and sustainable fashion options. By fostering eco-conscious consumer behavior and supporting local communities, we contribute to building sustainable cities. Community Engagement: We engage with local communities to raise awareness about sustainable living and encourage participation in eco-friendly practices. Eco-Gluxuries collaborates with local organizations, participates in community events, and supports initiatives that promote sustainable urban development. Infrastructure and Resource Management: Eco-Gluxuries advocates for infrastructure and resource management practices that enhance environmental sustainability. By promoting efficient resource use, reducing waste, and supporting green infrastructure projects, we contribute to creating sustainable communities.

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

Promoting Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Gluxuries advocates for sustainable fashion practices, including recycling, upcycling, and promoting slow fashion. By offering rental options, recycling programs, and encouraging consumers to buy consciously, we reduce waste and promote sustainable consumption patterns. Minimizing Environmental Impact: We prioritize eco-friendly materials and production processes in our fashion and beauty products. By reducing resource consumption, minimizing waste generation, and supporting ethical sourcing practices, Eco-Gluxuries contributes to sustainable production methods. Education and Awareness: Eco-Gluxuries educates consumers about the environmental impact of fast fashion and the benefits of choosing sustainable alternatives. Through workshops, social media campaigns, and partnerships, we empower individuals to make informed choices that align with responsible consumption and production.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

6

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Carbon Footprint Reduction: Eco-Gluxuries implements initiatives like recycling programs and sustainable sourcing to minimize our carbon footprint. By promoting energy-efficient practices and supporting carbon offsetting projects, we contribute to mitigating climate change impacts. Advocacy for Environmental Stewardship: We advocate for policies and practices that prioritize environmental sustainability within the fashion and beauty industries. Eco-Gluxuries engages stakeholders, raises awareness, and supports initiatives that advance climate action goals locally and globally. Resilient Communities: By promoting sustainable practices, Eco-Gluxuries contributes to building resilient communities capable of adapting to climate change. Our efforts in sustainable fashion and beauty support long-term environmental sustainability and community well-being.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

3

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

4

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

4

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.

4

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

5

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

4

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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

5

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

5

06.08 Justification for my startup

Eco-Gluxuries offers a unique and innovative approach in the fashion and beauty industry by combining bespoke fashion services with sustainability and community empowerment initiatives. Our product/service represents a renew type of offering by integrating fashion rental, recycling, and decluttering services with a strong CSR plan aimed at supporting women and teenagers with skills empowerment and startup kits. This innovative approach not only improves upon existing fashion and beauty services by adding a significant environmental and social dimension but also responds to a demand for sustainable and socially responsible consumption that has not been fully addressed by other products/services. By extending the range of traditional fashion and beauty offerings to include environmental sustainability and community empowerment, Eco-Gluxuries recreates a new version of these services, making it a pioneering force in the industry.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main potential competitors in the fashion and beauty industry include established fashion rental services, second-hand clothing platforms, and mainstream beauty brands. Key competitors in here in Lagos are Zaron, Closet-sales, and Ene naturals, Planet 3R, and Prudential Fashion. What makes Eco-Gluxuries stand out from these competitors is our holistic and integrated approach that combines high-quality fashion and beauty services with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and social impact. Unlike typical fashion rental services, we incorporate recycling and decluttering initiatives, actively reducing waste and promoting a circular economy. Our beauty line not only offers premium products but also emphasizes eco-friendly and sustainable practices. Furthermore, our CSR initiatives focus on empowering women and teenagers through skills training and startup support, providing a tangible social benefit that many competitors do not offer.

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

Yes, I am actively promoting the role of female entrepreneurs within my community. Examples of actions include: Organizing workshops on skills development, financial literacy, and sustainable business practices specifically for women. Establishing mentorship programs where experienced female entrepreneurs guide new entrepreneurs, providing personalized advice and support. Hosting events to connect female entrepreneurs with potential investors, partners, and customers, fostering a supportive community. Partnering with schools and universities to inspire young women to consider entrepreneurship through seminars and interactive sessions. Running campaigns to highlight the importance of female entrepreneurship and advocating for supportive policies. Providing grants and microloans to women entrepreneurs and collaborating with financial institutions to create favorable lending terms. These actions aim to empower women, foster entrepreneurship, and ensure they have the resources and support.