Nigeria - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

A tech-driven hydroponic(soilless) farming system utilizing IoT and AI for precise crop growth, reduced resource use, and enhanced sustainability.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Our startup offers innovative hydroponic farming solutions that integrate IoT and AI technology for optimal crop production. By using a soil-less system, we create nutrient-rich environments where plants can grow efficiently, reducing water usage and space requirements compared to traditional farming. Our business model has four key revenue streams: selling high-quality produce, designing and constructing custom hydroponic farms, offering profit-sharing partnerships with farmers, and selling our proprietary IoT technology. We believe in sustainability, efficiency, and supporting local agriculture, making hydroponic farming accessible to more people while addressing environmental concerns. Our goal is to lead the way in precision agriculture, fostering a future where food production is smarter, more sustainable, and accessible.

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

Traditional agriculture, based on soil, can be inefficient and prone to resource overuse, such as excessive water and fertilizers. This inefficiency contributes to environmental degradation, including soil depletion and pollution from chemical runoff. Additionally, soil-based farming is limited by space, especially in urban areas, making it challenging to grow crops where land is scarce. This approach lacks precise control over critical factors like moisture, temperature, and nutrient levels, leading to inconsistent crop yields. The need for vast land and high resource consumption poses significant obstacles to sustainability and can have detrimental impacts on ecosystems and the broader environment.

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

Our startup offers three key benefits with our hydroponic farming solutions: 1. Resource Efficiency: By using a soil-less system, we significantly reduce water and fertilizer use compared to traditional farming. Our controlled environment minimizes waste, promoting sustainability and resource conservation. 2. Precision Agriculture: With IoT sensors and AI algorithms, we provide real-time monitoring and control of temperature, humidity, and nutrient levels. This precision leads to higher crop yields, faster growth, and consistent quality, making agriculture more efficient. 3. Space Optimization: Hydroponic systems can be installed in urban and confined spaces, allowing for vertical farming and other compact setups. This flexibility enables cultivation in areas with limited land, expanding agricultural possibilities in urban settings.

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

Our hydroponic farming solutions are designed to serve a wide range of beneficiaries: 1. Urban Farmers and Gardeners: We target individuals and businesses in urban areas with limited space but a desire to grow fresh produce. Our compact hydroponic systems are ideal for rooftops, balconies, and indoor setups. 2. Small-Scale Farmers: We aim to support farmers who want to adopt innovative, sustainable farming practices without investing heavily in land or resources. Our profit-sharing model allows them to grow crops with reduced risk. 3. Commercial Growers and Agribusinesses: We cater to commercial operations seeking to enhance crop yield and quality using precision agriculture. Our systems offer scalability and customization to meet various production needs. 4. Environmental Enthusiasts: We target those passionate about sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Our solutions reduce resource consumption and support green initiatives.

01.05 When was your company established?

2022-11-13

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?

2

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

Nathan El-nathan Ata is the CEO and a software developer with a background in technology and project management. Godiya Luka is the CTO and an agronomist with expertise in hydroponics and sustainable agriculture. Dr. Alfa Meshach is a consultant with extensive experience in AI and IoT technologies. Judith Adams is the marketer and branding manager, specializing in marketing strategy and brand development.

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/smartel_agro_ltd?utm_source=qr&igsh=MzNlNGNkZWQ4Mg%3D%3D

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

Our startup contributes to the goal of No Poverty by implementing a unique free farm model that provides individuals and households with free access to farming resources and educational services. This model helps alleviate poverty by empowering communities to grow their own food, reduce expenses, and generate additional income through sustainable agriculture practices. By offering free farms, we create opportunities for families to engage in subsistence farming, ensuring food security and reducing their reliance on external food sources. Additionally, our free educational services teach essential farming techniques, and equipping participants with the knowledge and skills needed to maintain productive and sustainable farms. Through this approach, we are not only addressing immediate food security concerns but also fostering long-term economic empowerment. By enabling individuals to become self-sufficient and potentially generate income.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Our startup addresses the goal of Zero Hunger by promoting sustainable agriculture through soilless farming, a technique that enables efficient food production even in areas with limited arable land. By employing hydroponic and aquaponic systems, we grow crops without traditional soil, using nutrient-rich water to deliver essential minerals directly to plant roots. This method maximizes yield while minimizing the use of resources like water and land. Soilless farming allows us to cultivate a variety of crops year-round, providing a consistent food supply and reducing the impact of seasonal variations on food security. It also reduces the risk of soil degradation and erosion, contributing to the sustainability of agricultural practices. Our startup's focus on soilless farming not only improves food security but also enhances nutrition by enabling the production of fresh, high-quality produce. By implementing this innovative approach, we support communities in achieving food security.

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 startup contributes to the goal of Good Health and Well-Being by providing access to fresh, organic produce through our soilless farming model. By growing crops in a controlled environment with nutrient-rich solutions, we ensure that the food produced is free from harmful pesticides and chemicals, promoting healthier consumption and reducing the risk of food-borne illnesses. Moreover, our startup encourages local communities to engage in gardening and agriculture, fostering a connection with food production that can lead to healthier eating habits. This approach not only improves physical health but also has positive effects on mental well-being by reducing stress and promoting a sense of community through shared gardening experiences. In addition, our educational programs focus on teaching sustainable agriculture practices and nutrition, equipping people with the knowledge to make healthier food choices.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

Our startup supports the goal of Quality Education by providing free educational resources and training programs focused on sustainable agriculture and soilless farming. By integrating educational components into our business model, we empower individuals and communities with knowledge and practical skills that can lead to improved food security, health, and self-sufficiency. Through our training programs, participants learn about innovative farming techniques, resource management, and the environmental benefits of soilless farming. We also emphasize the importance of critical thinking and problem-solving, encouraging learners to apply these skills to various aspects of their lives. Additionally, our startup collaborates with local schools and community centers to offer hands-on workshops and educational events. This outreach creates opportunities for students of all ages to engage with sustainable agriculture concepts, fostering a greater appreciation for the environment.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Our startup actively promotes Gender Equality by creating inclusive opportunities for women in agriculture and leadership roles. We believe that empowering women to participate in soilless farming and agricultural management is key to achieving gender equality in our community. Our programs are designed to be accessible to everyone, with a focus on ensuring that women receive the training, resources, and support they need to thrive in the field of sustainable agriculture. We offer workshops and mentorship programs specifically tailored to encourage female participation and leadership, breaking down traditional barriers that often limit women's roles in agricultural and business ventures. Moreover, our startup fosters a workplace culture that embraces diversity and inclusion. We aim to set an example by achieving gender balance among our team members and encouraging women to take on decision-making roles within the company.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to Clean Water and Sanitation by implementing sustainable soilless farming techniques that use significantly less water compared to traditional agriculture. This reduction in water usage not only conserves resources but also minimizes water contamination from runoff, contributing to cleaner water sources and a healthier environment. Our innovative soilless systems, like hydroponics, ensure that water is recycled and reused, drastically reducing waste. This efficient use of water aligns with the principles of sustainable agriculture and helps ensure that communities have access to clean water for other purposes, such as drinking and sanitation. Moreover, our startup is involved in educational initiatives that promote water conservation and awareness. We teach participants about the importance of clean water and the role of sustainable agriculture in maintaining it.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

6

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

My startup contributes to the Affordable and Clean Energy goal, by adopting energy-efficient soilless farming methods such as hydroponics and aquaponics. These systems require less energy compared to traditional agriculture, thereby reducing our carbon footprint. We also integrate renewable energy sources like solar power to further lower our energy consumption and reliance on non-renewable resources. By using clean energy solutions, we ensure that our farming practices are sustainable and cost-effective, contributing to the broader goal of affordable and clean energy. This approach not only supports environmental sustainability but also reduces operational costs, allowing us to offer affordable products and services to our customers.

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

My startup contributes to the goal of Decent Work and Economic Growth by creating employment opportunities and fostering economic growth through sustainable agriculture. By promoting soilless farming techniques like hydroponics, we provide a pathway for individuals to gain new skills and secure jobs in a growing sector. Our startup prioritizes fair labor practices, offering training and career development to our employees, which contributes to their professional growth and financial stability. Additionally, our startup actively supports local economies by sourcing materials and resources from local suppliers. This approach not only reduces our environmental impact but also stimulates economic activity within the community. We also offer educational programs and workshops to encourage entrepreneurship and innovation in sustainable agriculture, empowering individuals to start their own ventures and contribute to economic growth.

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

Our startup contributes to Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, achieving a 7 on the scale of agreement, by promoting technological advancements in agriculture through soilless farming methods like hydroponics and aquaponics. This innovation not only leads to more efficient agricultural practices but also serves as a model for sustainable industry infrastructure. Our approach incorporates the latest in Internet of Things (IoT) technology, allowing for smart monitoring and control of agricultural systems. This integration of technology into farming infrastructure reduces waste and increases productivity, setting a new standard for sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, we invest in building robust infrastructure for our operations, from setting up energy-efficient facilities to creating supply chains that prioritize local sourcing and sustainability. This emphasis on infrastructure not only supports our business growth but also has a positive impact on the economy.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to Reduced Inequalities, by fostering inclusivity and providing equal opportunities within the field of sustainable agriculture. We actively work to bridge gaps by offering free educational programs and training sessions that are accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds, regardless of socioeconomic status, gender, or education level. By adopting a soilless farming model, we create a level playing field where people from underprivileged communities can engage in agriculture without needing large plots of land or expensive equipment. This approach reduces barriers to entry, enabling more individuals to participate in agriculture and improve their livelihoods. Moreover, our startup promotes workplace diversity and inclusion by ensuring gender balance and supporting individuals from marginalized groups. We strive to maintain an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.

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

Our startup contributes to Sustainable Cities and Communities, by promoting sustainable agricultural practices that support urban development and enhance community resilience. By adopting soilless farming techniques like hydroponics and aquaponics, we enable efficient food production within urban areas, reducing the need for large tracts of land and minimizing environmental impact. Our startup helps create greener cities by integrating indoor and rooftop farming, contributing to improved air quality, reduced carbon emissions, and enhanced urban biodiversity. This approach supports sustainable cities by offering a solution to food deserts and promoting local food production, thereby reducing transportation costs and environmental footprints. Additionally, we engage with local communities to provide educational programs and workshops on sustainable agriculture, fostering a culture of sustainability and environmental awareness.

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

Our startup contributes to Responsible Consumption and Production, by implementing sustainable agricultural practices and promoting resource efficiency. Our soilless farming techniques, such as hydroponics and aquaponics, allow for precise control of water and nutrient use, significantly reducing waste compared to traditional farming methods. This approach aligns with responsible production by minimizing resource consumption and environmental impact. We focus on local food production, which reduces transportation needs and lowers the carbon footprint associated with food distribution. By growing crops in controlled environments, we can also reduce the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals, contributing to safer and more sustainable food production. In terms of responsible consumption, our startup offers educational programs to raise awareness about sustainable food choices and the benefits of locally sourced produce.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to Climate Action, by promoting sustainable agricultural practices and reducing carbon emissions. Our soilless farming approach, which includes hydroponics and aquaponics, uses significantly less water and energy compared to traditional farming, thus minimizing the carbon footprint associated with food production. We focus on local food production, which reduces the need for long-distance transportation, contributing to a lower carbon footprint and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. By utilizing renewable energy sources such as solar power to operate our soilless farming systems, we further support climate action by relying less on non-renewable resources. Additionally, our startup is committed to educating the community about climate action and sustainability. We offer workshops and training sessions on sustainable agriculture and the importance of reducing carbon emissions.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to Climate Action, achieving a score of 7 on the scale of agreement, by promoting sustainable agricultural practices and reducing carbon emissions. Our soilless farming approach, which includes hydroponics and aquaponics, uses significantly less water and energy compared to traditional farming, thus minimizing the carbon footprint associated with food production. We focus on local food production, which reduces the need for long-distance transportation, contributing to a lower carbon footprint and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. By utilizing renewable energy sources such as solar power to operate our soilless farming systems, we further support climate action by relying less on non-renewable resources. Additionally, our startup is committed to educating the community about climate action and sustainability. We offer workshops and training sessions on sustainable agriculture and the importance of reducing carbon emissions. By raising awareness and encouraging

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

Our startup aligns with the Life on Land goal, by promoting sustainable agriculture and conservation practices that preserve land ecosystems and support biodiversity. We use soilless farming techniques, such as hydroponics and aquaponics, to grow crops efficiently, minimizing land use and reducing soil degradation. This approach helps protect forests and natural habitats from deforestation and over-farming. Our focus on sustainable agriculture reduces the need for harmful pesticides and fertilizers, which are common contributors to soil and water contamination. By eliminating these toxic substances, we help maintain healthy soil quality and prevent harmful runoff that can damage terrestrial ecosystems. Additionally, our startup emphasizes recycling and waste reduction, ensuring that our operations do not contribute to land pollution. We use eco-friendly packaging and composting practices to minimize our environmental impact.

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

6

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, by promoting inclusive practices, transparency, and ethical operations within our business model. We believe that fostering a culture of fairness and justice is critical to building strong communities and institutions. Our approach includes creating a work environment where diversity and inclusion are valued. We ensure equal opportunities for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or background, thereby promoting peace and reducing discrimination. This inclusive approach extends to our community engagement, where we encourage open dialogue and collaboration with local stakeholders. Transparency is another core value of our startup. We maintain clear communication with our partners, clients, and the public, fostering trust and accountability in our operations. This commitment to transparency helps build strong relationships with local institutions.

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

Our startup's success is built on strong partnerships, earning a 7 on the scale of agreement for contributing to Partnerships for the Goal. We believe in fostering collaborations with a wide range of stakeholders, from local communities to international organizations, to achieve shared objectives and drive sustainable development. We have established partnerships with academic institutions to facilitate research and innovation, allowing us to continuously improve our products and services. These collaborations not only contribute to our growth but also support the broader dissemination of knowledge and expertise in our field. Additionally, we work closely with local governments and non-governmental organizations to address specific community needs. These partnerships help us tailor our solutions to local contexts and ensure that our startup contributes meaningfully to the communities.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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.

5

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.08 Justification for my startup

Our hydroponic farming startup combines established concepts with innovative technology, offering a unique product/service that addresses a range of modern agricultural challenges. While there are many customers who use hydroponic systems, our approach differentiates itself through the integration of IoT and AI, allowing for precise control and real-time monitoring. This results in improved crop yield, resource efficiency, and reduced waste, making our product an improvement on existing systems. Though hydroponics has been around for a while, our use of advanced technology represents a new take on this practice. By embedding IoT sensors and AI algorithms, we create a smarter, data-driven approach to farming. This positions our product as both a new version of an old concept and an entirely new technology. Moreover, our business model, which includes profit-sharing with farmers and customizable setups, caters to an unmet demand for flexible, sustainable farming solutions.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main potential competitors are other hydroponic farming companies, vertical farming startups, and agricultural technology firms. These businesses focus on soil-less farming, often using advanced technology to improve efficiency and yield. Here are some potential competitors in Nigeria's hydroponic farming and agricultural technology sector: 1. Ecobasics Integrated Services 2. Nigerian Horticultural Society 3. AgroPark Development Company 4. Farmcrowdy 5. Afrimash 6. Pind Foundation 7. Smart Farm NG These competitors are involved in hydroponic farming, agritech, and related services in Nigeria, offering a variety of agricultural solutions and innovative approaches.

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

Yes, we actively promote the role of female entrepreneurs within our community. Our startup supports gender diversity and aims to create a more inclusive environment by: 1. **Mentoring and Networking**: We organize and participate in mentorship programs that connect aspiring female entrepreneurs with experienced professionals. These initiatives help women in business develop their skills and networks. 2. **Workshops and Training**: We offer workshops and training sessions that focus on entrepreneurship and leadership, specifically encouraging female participation and leadership roles within our startup and the broader community. 3. **Partnerships with Women's Organizations**: We partner with local women's business groups and associations to promote collaboration, share resources, and support the growth of female entrepreneurs. By initiating these actions, we aim to foster a supportive ecosystem where female entrepreneurs can thrive, helping to create a more balanced environment.