Nigeria - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Deforestation is rapidly increasing unchecked in my community, all for the sake of getting charcoals . This has increased the effect of climate change, loss of vegetation in my 6 hectare land. My project is planting 5000 palm 🌴 trees to produce palm oil

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

The idea is to set up a mini oil mill, producing Palm oil used in cooking food and making of soap,using palm kernel fruit from our already palm plantation while saving the ecosystem. This mini oil mill will employ more than 160 youth, ranging from harvesters to oil millers. In addition to fighting food scarcity, this project will also create employment.

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

The main am trying to solve are food scarcity, adverse effects of climate change and unemployment.

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

Not only you can cook with palm oil, but this oil is used in various snack products, wax, cosmetic, and skincare items. Now even it is used as a biofuel and medicinal purposes. Palm oil is beneficial for health, diabetic person can use it as it reduced blood glucose level and enhance antioxidant status. Producing it at our oil mill makes it fresher, better, faster and cheaper for Palm oil wholesalers within our state.

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

Our target customers are major palm oil wholesalers and soap factories within the state and it's environs.

01.05 When was your company established?

2022-09-09

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

2

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.)

Okitipupa Oil Palm Plc was established to carry on the business of palm tree plantation developments, cultivators, growers of other related crops and to treat, process, prepare, render marketable, buy, sell, and dispose of such products either raw or manufactured state and any product or by-product derived there from. The Products of the company include production of: Palm Oil, Palm Kernel, Seedlings Other agro-allied related products. Okitipupa Oil Palm PLC was incorporated as a limited liability company on the 17th of May, 1976 to take over the Okitipupa Oil Palm Project under the management of the Nigeria Joint Agency Limited. Okomu is second largest plantations in Nigeria, is the country’s biggest crude palm oil (CPO) producer . In 2014, Okomu further pursued growth by doubling the oil mill’s processing capacity and replanting its oldest palm and rubber blocks in order to increase production. Simultaneously, the company acquired 11 416 hectares of farmland.

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

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

Palm plantations can contribute to poverty eradication in several ways: 1. Employment opportunities: Palm plantations create jobs for rural communities, providing a steady income source and improving living standards. 2. Economic growth: The palm oil industry generates revenue for local economies, stimulating growth and development. 3. Smallholder empowerment: Many palm plantations partner with smallholder farmers, providing training and support to increase their yields and incomes. 4. Infrastructure development: Plantations often invest in infrastructure like roads, bridges, and social amenities, benefiting surrounding communities. 5. Social programs: Some plantations invest in community development projects, such as education, healthcare, and social welfare programs. 6. Increased access to markets: Palm plantations can provide market access for rural farmers, helping them sell their products and improve their livelihoods. 7. Improved food security:

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Palm oil plantations can help eradicate hunger in several ways: 1. Food security: Palm oil is a versatile crop used in cooking, providing a reliable source of nutrition for millions of people worldwide. 2. Increased food availability: Large-scale palm oil production can lead to increased food availability, reducing food scarcity and hunger. 3. Affordability: Palm oil is generally affordable, making it a staple food item for many low-income households. 4. Nutrition: Palm oil is a rich source of vitamins A and E, fatty acids, and other essential nutrients, contributing to a balanced diet. 5. Livelihoods: Palm oil plantations provide employment and income opportunities for rural communities, enabling them to purchase food and improve their overall well-being. 6. Local food systems: Palm oil plantations can support local food systems by providing fresh produce to nearby communities.

02.03.01 My startup contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

6

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification for my startup

Palm oil production can contribute to good health and well-being in several ways: 1. Nutrition: Palm oil is a rich source of vitamins A and E, fatty acids, and other essential nutrients, supporting healthy growth and development. 2. Food fortification: Palm oil is used as a base for food fortification programs, enhancing the nutritional value of staple foods, especially in developing countries. 3. Improved healthcare: Revenue generated from palm oil production can fund healthcare infrastructure and services, improving access to medical care. 4. Economic stability: Palm oil production provides employment and income opportunities, reducing poverty and stress, and enabling individuals to afford healthcare and healthy living. 5. Community development: Palm oil companies often invest in community development projects, including healthcare facilities, sanitation, and clean water access.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

Palm oil plantations can contribute to quality education in several ways: 1. Scholarship programs: Some palm oil companies offer scholarships to students from rural communities, supporting their educational pursuits. 2. Infrastructure development: Plantations may invest in building or renovating schools, providing modern educational facilities for local children. 3. Teacher support: Palm oil companies may provide training and resources for teachers, enhancing the quality of education in nearby schools. 4. Educational resources: Plantations may donate educational materials, such as books, computers, and science equipment, to local schools. 5. Vocational training: Palm oil plantations may offer vocational training programs, teaching skills like agriculture, mechanics, and entrepreneurship. 6. Community development: Plantations may invest in community development projects, including adult literacy programs and skills training. 7. Partnerships with educational institutions.

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

4

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

3

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

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

Palm oil plantations provide decent work and economic growth in several ways: 1. Employment opportunities: Palm oil plantations create jobs for rural communities, providing a stable source of income and employment security. 2. Fair wages: Plantations pay fair wages to their employees, ensuring a decent standard of living. 3. Social benefits: Many palm oil companies provide social benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave. 4. Skills training: Plantations may offer training programs, enhancing employees' skills and career prospects. 5. Entrepreneurial opportunities: Palm oil plantations may support smallholder farmers and entrepreneurs, providing access to markets and resources. 6. Economic growth: The palm oil industry contributes to national economies, generating revenue and stimulating growth. 7. Infrastructure development: Plantations may invest in infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and ports, facilitating economic development.

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

Palm oil production brings industry innovation and infrastructure in several ways: 1. Technology adoption: Modern farming techniques, precision agriculture, and mechanization improve efficiency and productivity. 2. Research and development: Breeding programs, genetic research, and crop improvement lead to higher-yielding and disease-resistant varieties. 3. Processing innovations: Advanced milling technologies, efficient refining processes, and innovative product development. 4. Sustainability initiatives: Certification programs, environmental monitoring, and conservation efforts reduce the industry's ecological footprint. 5. Infrastructure development: Plantations invest in roads, bridges, and ports, improving connectivity and facilitating trade. 6. Digitalization: Adoption of digital tools, data analytics, and IoT sensors enhances farm management, supply chain transparency, and traceability. 7. Biotechnology applications: Development of biofuels, bioplastics, and other value.

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

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

Palm plantations can ensure sustainable cities and communities in several ways: 1. Sustainable land use: Plantations can adopt sustainable land use practices, minimizing deforestation and habitat destruction. 2. Environmental stewardship: Implementing conservation programs, protecting biodiversity, and reducing environmental impact. 3. Community engagement: Engaging with local communities, respecting their rights, and supporting their development. 4. Social responsibility: Providing jobs, training, and social services, contributing to community well-being. 5. Infrastructure development: Investing in roads, schools, healthcare facilities, and other essential infrastructure. 6. Renewable energy: Utilizing biogas, biomass, and other renewable energy sources to power operations. 7. Water management: Implementing efficient water use and conservation practices. 8. Waste management: Implementing proper waste disposal and recycling programs. 9. Climate change mitigation:

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

Palm oil production can ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns in several ways: 1. Efficient water use: Implementing water-saving practices and reducing wastewater. 2. Minimal waste generation: Implementing zero-waste policies and recycling programs. 3. Renewable energy: Using biogas, biomass, and other renewable energy sources. 4. Sustainable sourcing: Ensuring responsible sourcing of materials and services. 5. Certified sustainable palm oil (CSPO): Producing palm oil certified by organizations like RSPO, ISPO. 6. Supply chain transparency: Ensuring traceability and transparency in the supply chain. 7. Sustainable agriculture practices: Implementing practices like crop rotation, organic farming. 8. Reduced chemical use: Minimizing the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides. 9. Biodiversity conservation: Protecting and conserving biodiversity in plantations. 10. Community engagement: Engaging with local communities and ensuring their involvement.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Palm plantations can combat climate change in several ways: 1. Carbon sequestration: Palm trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, storing carbon in biomass and soil. 2. Renewable energy: Producing biogas, biomass, and other renewable energy sources to reduce fossil fuel dependence. 3. Sustainable land use: Implementing sustainable land use practices, reducing deforestation and habitat destruction. 4. Reduced greenhouse gas emissions: Implementing practices to reduce emissions, such as efficient water use and minimal waste generation. 5. Climate-smart agriculture: Adopting practices like agroforestry, conservation agriculture, and climate-resilient crop varieties. 6. Reforestation and afforestation: Planting new trees and restoring forests to enhance carbon sequestration. 7. Soil conservation: Implementing practices to reduce soil erosion, promoting soil health and carbon storage. 8. Biodiversity conservation: Protecting and conserving biodiversity.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

2

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

Palm plantations can protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss in several ways: 1. Sustainable land use planning: Ensuring responsible land use, avoiding deforestation and habitat destruction. 2. Conservation areas: Setting aside areas for conservation, protecting biodiversity and ecosystem services. 3. Reforestation and afforestation: Planting new trees and restoring forests to enhance ecosystem services. 4. Agroforestry practices: Integrating trees into agricultural landscapes, promoting ecological interactions. 5. Sustainable forest management: Managing forests to maintain ecological integrity, productivity, and regeneration. 6. Soil conservation: Implementing practices to reduce soil erosion, promoting soil health and fertility. 7. Water management: Implementing efficient water use and conservation practices.

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

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Palm oil production can strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development in several ways: 1. Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborating with governments, NGOs, and industry players to promote sustainable development. 2. Capacity Building: Providing training and capacity building programs for farmers, workers, and communities. 3. Technology Transfer: Sharing sustainable practices, technology, and expertise with other industries and countries. 4. Financial Investment: Investing in sustainable development projects, such as renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure. 5. International Cooperation: Collaborating with international organizations to promote sustainable development and address global challenges. 6. Multi-Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging with diverse stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, industry players, and communities, to promote sustainable development. 7. Knowledge Sharing:

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.

2

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

2

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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

5

06.08 Justification for my startup

Our palm production firm with a palm plantation is unique in that it: 1. Controls the entire production process, from seedling to harvesting. 2. ensure consistent quality and sustainability practices throughout the supply chain. 3. implement efficient and innovative farming practices, reducing costs and environmental impact. 4. Has direct access to raw materials, reducing reliance on external suppliers. 5. Can diversify its product portfolio, producing various palm oil derivatives and by-products. The demand for palm oil products is high and growing, driven by: 1. Food industry: Palm oil is a common ingredient in processed foods, baked goods, and snack foods. 2. Biofuels: Palm oil is used as a feedstock for biodiesel production. 3. Cosmetics and personal care: Palm oil is used in soaps, shampoos, and skincare products. 4. Industrial applications: Palm oil is used in lubricants, greases, and other industrial products. 5. Growing demand from emerging markets due to population increase.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Here are some of the major palm oil producers in Nigeria - Okomu Oil Palm Company: One of the largest players in Nigeria’s oil palm industry. - Presco PLC: One of the largest players in Nigeria’s oil palm industry, with a 104% increase in tax payment in 2021. - Highrise Global Services Limited: Committed to quality and sustainability, with large plantations and modern processing facilities. - Sustainable Concepts Foundation: Prioritizes environmentally friendly farming practices and invests in R&D. - Pantaleon Axis Ltd: Combines traditional practices with modern technology to produce high-quality palm oil. - EKOOL Nigeria Limited: Purchases palm oil from well-managed plantations and has modern processing facilities. - Sunola Palm Oil Nigeria Limited: Uses cutting-edge farming methods and focuses on sustainability and customer satisfaction. - Steve William Pure Oil Investment Company Ltd: Committed to excellence and social responsibility programs. - Yemi Nigerian Enterprises:

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