Nigeria - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Ihairyou Hairitage enhances women's wellness and health with premium hair wigs and extensions. We empower women, support inclusivity, and promote self-confidence with sustainable, scalp-sensitive products, especially for those with health challenges.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Ihairyou Hairitage is an innovative business dedicated to the wholesale and retail of human hair wigs and extensions. The business is structured as a sole proprietorship, operating under founder Francis, Franca Bassey. We are located at 42b Ambo Street, Calabar, Nigeria, we launched our operations in June 2023. Ihairyou Hairitage is in business to boost women's confidence and self-esteem by helping them look their best. We are committed to sourcing ethically made wigs that are comfortable for women undergoing chemotherapy, women with alopecia, and those experiencing hair loss due to hormonal changes from pregnancy and childbirth. We offer these high-quality products at affordable prices. Other hair wig and extension businesses do not understand the pains of this woman like we do. Our goal is to enhance women's beauty and confidence, ensuring they feel good about themselves. We aim to serve 500 women by the end of this year and expand to reach 3,000 women in the next five years.

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

Ihairyou Hairitage supports women's wellness and beauty by addressing several key problems related to health and well-being. Our primary focus is to support women undergoing health challenges, particularly those affected by medical conditions such as cancer that result in hair loss. We provide high-quality wigs and extensions that are gentle on the scalp, enhancing comfort and confidence during difficult times. Additionally, we promote mental well-being by offering products that help women maintain their sense of identity and self-esteem. Through educational workshops and hair care tips, we empower women to take better care of their hair and overall health. By ensuring our products are ethically sourced and free from harmful chemicals, we contribute to healthier lifestyles and environmental sustainability. Ultimately, we aim to create a supportive community where women can find both physical and emotional solace, thus enhancing their overall well-being and quality of life.

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

Ihairyou Hairitage offers numerous benefits and advantages through our premium hair extensions and wigs. First, our products enhance confidence and self-esteem, allowing women to express their identity and beauty effortlessly. We provide high-quality, scalp-sensitive wigs ideal for women facing health issues that lead to hair loss, ensuring comfort and a natural look. Our range includes frontals, bundles, wigs, and closures, catering to diverse styles and preferences. With a focus on inclusivity, we celebrate diverse beauty standards and promote self-expression. We empower women economically by providing job opportunities and training programmes, fostering financial independence. Additionally, our quick delivery, flawless service, and affordable prices make our products accessible and convenient. By offering comprehensive hair care tips, we educate and support our customers in maintaining their hair’s health and beauty, contributing to their overall well-being.

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

Targeting a particular niche within the expanding hair wig and extension industry, Ihairyou Hairitage is estimated to be worth USD 7.1 billion in 2023 and is projected to rise at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of more than 4.6% from 2024 to 2032, according to Global Market Insight. In Nigeria, we intend to focus on 3% of females between the ages of 24-45 who earn N150,000 or more per month, reside in urban and suburban regions, and are experiencing hair loss as a result of health conditions. We cater to both individual customers (B2C) and companies (B2B), such as hairdressers and health care providers. Our goods are intended for consumers who value comfort, natural beauty, and long-lasting performance. Our goal is to leverage established influencers whose followers and fans fall within our target demographic, both online and offline. 

01.05 When was your company established?

2023-06-20

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

0

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.)

As a sole proprietor of Ihairyou Hairitage, Francis, Franca Bassey holds multiple roles. As the visionary, setting strategic goals for the business aligned with empowering women, promoting diversity, and fostering sustainability. Our responsibilities include business development, overseeing operations, and ensuring financial health. We also drive marketing initiatives, customer engagement, and partnerships. With our African upbringing and deep understanding of the hair industry, we bring cultural insights, innovative ideas, and a customer-centric approach. Our leadership inspires the team, aligns with SDG3, and propels the business toward its mission.

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/ihairyouhairitage?igsh=MTJpdWd1aHhjbjkxbQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

e) Secondary commodities (cars and parts, consumer durables and apparel, retail)

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

4

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

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

Ihairyou Hairitage aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being. We address the needs of women experiencing hair loss due to health issues by providing high-quality, scalp-sensitive wigs and extensions that enhance comfort and confidence. Our products support physical health by being free from harmful chemicals, ensuring safe and gentle usage. We also promote mental well-being by helping women maintain their sense of identity and self-esteem during challenging times. Our educational initiatives include hair care workshops and resources that empower women to take better care of their hair and overall health. By fostering a supportive community, we contribute to emotional and psychological health, providing solace and encouragement. Additionally, our ethically sourced extensions promote environmental health in the community. Through these efforts, we play a vital role in enhancing the overall quality of life for women facing health-related hair loss.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

4

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

4

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

4

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

1 - Strongly Disagree

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

2

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

2

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

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.

6

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

3

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

3

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

4

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.

4

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

5

06.08 Justification for my startup

Many customers already use products and services similar to what we envision creating at Ihairyou Hairitage. This existing market demonstrates a strong demand and validates our business model. By differentiating ourselves through unique features, exceptional quality, and superior customer service, we aim to attract these customers and carve out a distinct niche in the competitive landscape. Our product/service at Ihairyou Hairitage is a modernized version of a traditional offering, revitalizing the classic hair wig and extension industry with innovative designs, superior quality, and enhanced user experiences. By integrating cutting-edge technology, sustainable practices, and customer feedback, we provide a refreshed take on established products, addressing contemporary needs while honoring the timeless appeal. This approach ensures we stay relevant and competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our primary competitors— Nita_hairline_plug, Arahair_collection, and Perrys_hairline—exhibit notable gaps in customer interaction and service efficiency. They often fail to engage meaningfully with clients, resulting in delayed responses and a lack of understanding of client pain points. This impersonal approach contrasts sharply with Ihairyou Hairitage’s commitment to exceptional customer service. We prioritise swift, personalised communication, ensuring that our clients feel heard and valued. Furthermore, our competitors primarily target individuals with fashion needs, limiting their market scope. Ihairyou Hairitage, on the other hand, serves a broader audience by catering not only to fashion-conscious individuals but also to those with health conditions requiring hair wigs and extensions. Combining fashion with compassion distinguishes us from our competitors, enabling us to build deeper connections and foster greater loyalty among our clients.

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

Yes, at Ihairyou Hairitage, we actively promote the role of female entrepreneurs within our community. We organize workshops and mentorship programs aimed at empowering women with the skills and knowledge needed to start and manage their own hair wig and extension businesses. We collaborate with local organizations to provide resources and support networks for aspiring female entrepreneurs. Additionally, we highlight success stories of women in business through our platforms to inspire and motivate others. By creating a supportive environment and offering practical tools, we strive to foster a culture of female entrepreneurship and contribute to economic growth and gender equality in our community. Our commitment extends to advocating for policies that benefit women entrepreneurs and ensuring our practices reflect inclusivity and empowerment.