Nigeria - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Mima4U is passionate about Sustainable Development Goals 1, 2, 3, 8, and 17.As we operate to continuously provide the best quality products to our clients and customers, both domestically and internationally, we also address this issue through our impact

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Mima4U is a snack processing company specializing in healthy, convenient treats. We meticulously source, process, package, and distribute delicious snacks like flavored peanuts, plantain chips, and chinchin. Our diverse offerings target busy professionals, students, and corporate/event clients through online and brick-and-mortar channels. We prioritize hygiene, quality, and customer satisfaction in every bite. Beyond deliciousness, Mima4U is deeply committed to social responsibility. We align with UN Sustainable Development Goals 1 (poverty eradication), 2 (zero hunger), 3 (good health & well-being), 8 (decent work & economic growth), and 17 (partnerships for the Goals). This reflects our dedication to creating positive change in our community and environment.

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

Mima4U tackles three key problems in the food and beverage industry: 1. Rising Non-Communicable Diseases: Research shows these diseases cause 71% of deaths. Mima4U offers delicious, well-formulated snacks using heart-healthy ingredients to help people avoid unhealthy snacking habits. 2. Limited Snack Product Variety: Produce like peanuts and plantains are often eaten raw, boiled, or fried. Mima4U unlocks the potential of these ingredients, creating a wider variety of healthy and delicious snack options. 3. Compromised Snack Quality: Many consumers struggle to find nutritious and tasty snacks. Mima4U addresses this by providing meticulously processed, high-quality snacks like peanut snacks, plantain chips, and chinchin in various flavors, catering to diverse preferences and dietary needs. By tackling these issues, Mima4U aims to promote healthier snacking habits and contribute to a reduction in non-communicable diseases.

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

Here are three key benefits that set us apart: 1. Customer-Centric Quality: We go the extra mile to ensure your satisfaction. This starts with meticulously formulated recipes, uses only premium ingredients, and prioritizes a safe and hygienic production process. Our packaging keeps your snack fresh and arrives sealed for ultimate quality. 2. Nourishing Your Body: We believe "health is wealth." That's why Mima4U products are made with your health in mind. We prioritize quality ingredients and ensure the nutritional value of each product remains intact. Enjoy delicious snack that fuels your well-being. 3. Sustainable Practices: Mima4U is committed to environmental responsibility. We understand the impact of climate change and actively choose reusable and recyclable packaging for our products. By choosing Mima4U, you can enjoy healthy snack while making a positive impact on the planet. Mima4U provides a guilt-free, convenient, and future-oriented snack solution.

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

Mima4u caters to a broad demographic, offering delicious snack options and convenient services. Our core product range targets individuals between 13-45 years old, encompassing: • Students seeking tasty, portable snacks. • Professionals desiring convenient, satisfying treats. We also serve: • Event planners needing crowd-pleasing refreshments. • Corporate organizations seeking unique gifts and employee treats. Furthermore, Mima4u offers services like private label manufacturing and export, catering to businesses seeking high-quality African snacks for their own brands or international markets.

01.05 When was your company established?

2021-09-11

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

3

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.)

Our startup thrives on the combined expertise of its co-founders: 1. Jemima Shekoni: A scientist-turned-entrepreneur (Physiotherapy, Obafemi Awolowo University) with a passion for health and wellness. Her business acumen (Lagos Business School) and leadership development (YALI) fuel the creation of innovative healthy snacks (Mima4u). Prior volunteer work (Envisage Hub, BeKind Initiative) underscores her social impact focus. 2. Shekoni Taiwo: A seasoned executive director with an MBA in Marketing (Ladoke Akintola University) and 30+ years of experience across diverse sectors (government, manufacturing). Chartered accountant, chartered tax professional, and strategic business development consultant, he brings a wealth of financial and strategic expertise. 3. Tobe Nnadozie: A proven leader with an MBA (Bangor University) specializing in innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital technology. His versatile career spans government and financial services (senior management, Banks & Insurance).

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/mima_4u/

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

d) Primary commodities (food, drink, household and personal products)

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Mima4U tackles SDG 1 by creating a pathway out of poverty for young adults in our community who lack access to further education after primary or secondary school. Our innovative snack processing company provides them with critical job skills and employment opportunities. This initiative directly addresses SDG 1 target 1.2: "By 2030, reduce at least by half the proportion of youth not in employment, education or training." By equipping young people with valuable skills and fostering financial independence, Mima4U contributes to a more stable and prosperous future for them, their families, and our community. This approach has a multiplier effect, as poverty reduction is linked to lower crime rates. When young adults have access to decent jobs and a sense of purpose, they are less likely to turn to criminal activity. We plan to track the number of young people we train and employ, monitoring their progress towards financial stability.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Mima4U is a social enterprise dedicated to tackling SDG 2: Zero Hunger. We believe healthy, delicious snacks shouldn't be a privilege. Our mission is to make nutritious snacking accessible to everyone, while creating a positive social impact. Through innovative solutions and partnerships, Mima4U aims to: 1. Increase access to nutritious food: We'll develop affordable, healthy snack options that cater to underserved communities. Promote healthy eating habits: Our products will be packed with essential nutrients and educational materials to empower informed dietary choices. 2. Support sustainable agriculture: We'll source ingredients responsibly, fostering partnerships with local farmers and promoting sustainable practices. Mima4U is more than just a snack company. We're a force for good, driven by the vision of a world where everyone has the opportunity to nourish their bodies and reach their full potential.

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

Mima4U prioritizes contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being. We understand that health is a foundation for a fulfilling life, and we're committed to empowering our customers to make healthy choices. We achieve this by: Sourcing Wholesome Ingredients: We meticulously select high-quality, nutritious ingredients to ensure our products provide the building blocks for a healthy lifestyle. Rigorous Production Standards: Our production adheres to strict hygiene and sanitation protocols, guaranteeing a safe and clean environment from farm to finished product. Focus on Transparency: We believe informed consumers make better choices. We strive for transparency in our sourcing and production processes, allowing customers to feel confident about the products they choose. By prioritizing quality and responsible practices, Mima4U goes beyond simply offering products. We aim to be a partner in our customers' well-being journey, fostering a healthier future for all.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

4

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

N/A

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

4

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

N/A

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

4

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

N/A

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

N/A

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

Mima4U directly contributes to UN SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. We believe economic development thrives when small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) like ours empower individuals. Our core mission is to create a supportive environment where people can acquire valuable skills, secure fulfilling employment, and continuously develop their potential. This not only benefits individuals but fosters a more robust and inclusive economy for all. By focusing on job training, skills development, and flexible work arrangements. We aim to empower people to participate meaningfully in the workforce, driving sustainable economic growth.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

3

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

N/A

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

4

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

N/A

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

3

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

N/A

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

4

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

N/A

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

4

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

N/A

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

4

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

N/A

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

3

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

N/A

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

N/A

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

We recognize that achieving a sustainable future requires collective action. By collaborating with like-minded brands and organizations, we can amplify our impact and accelerate progress towards a better world. In the past, we have partnered with brands like G-Active, Haute bags, etc. Collaboration has allowed us to: 1. Combine expertise: Partnering with complementary organizations leverages diverse skillsets and resources, leading to more effective solutions. 2. Expand reach: Collaborations broaden our audience and amplify the positive message we aim to promote. 3. Drive innovation: Partnerships foster an environment of shared ideas, leading to groundbreaking solutions for a sustainable future. Mima4U is committed to building strategic partnerships to maximize our contribution to the SDGs.

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

6

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.

5

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.

6

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

6

06.08 Justification for my startup

Mima4U prioritizes continuous innovation to remain relevant and competitive in a dynamic consumer landscape. We achieve this by: • Market-Driven Product Development: We leverage consumer insights and trend analysis to introduce new product lines and services that cater to evolving tastes, wants, and demands. • Data-Driven Decision Making: We utilize data analytics to identify customer preferences and market opportunities, ensuring our innovations resonate with the target audience. By fostering a culture of innovation, Mima4U strives to deliver exceptional value to its customers and secure a sustainable future within the ever-evolving market

06.09 Competitive Analysis

While established players like Chi Limited and Nutzy Peanut exist, we differentiate ourselves through a multi-pronged approach: Customer Centricity: We prioritize exceptional customer service, ensuring a seamless and positive experience across all touchpoints. Variety & Innovation: We offer a wider range of snacking options, catering to diverse preferences and dietary needs. Our commitment to innovation keeps our product offerings fresh and exciting. Quality Focus: We use only the highest quality, wholesome raw materials, ensuring the health and satisfaction of our customers. We prioritize heart-healthy ingredients whenever possible. Sustainable Sourcing: We partner with agricultural shareholders, fostering responsible farming practices and creating a secure supply chain. Open Communication: We actively seek customer feedback, allowing us to continuously improve our products and services. This collaborative approach ensures we stay ahead of evolving consumer preferences.

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

YES, I'm actively fostering female entrepreneurship within my community through a multi-pronged approach: Knowledge Empowerment: I organize seminars and workshops featuring successful female entrepreneurs. These sessions, like the impactful Mima4u program (Program 2) and the DLBC Women's program, equip aspiring female founders with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive. Hands-on Support: I actively volunteer with programs dedicated to empowering female entrepreneurs. For example, I contribute my time and expertise to SheCan Nigeria, an impactful program that directly supports women on their entrepreneurial journeys. Building Bridges: I recognize the importance of collaboration. I actively support and participate in events like "Entrepreneurship Get Togethers" that connect female entrepreneurs with resources, mentors, and potential investors. This fosters a supportive network that fuels their success.