Ethiopia - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Gelagay Machine is solar energy powered, which extend the shelf life, quality, and freshness of fruit and vegetable. It increases the income of farmer's and reduces the expenses of consumer's. It also used for cooking, boiling water, heating, and drying.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Gelagay is a solar-powered machine that uses solar energy as its primary energy source to make the lives of farmers and consumers easy and comfortable. Gelagay increases the income of farmers and reduces the expenses of consumers by reducing the spoilage of fruits and vegetables. Because fruits and vegetables have a short shelf life, they are easily spoiled due to different factors. Spoilage occurs at various stages, including harvesting, loading, transportation, unloading, and storage at retail and wholesale locations, during exchanges, transportation to consumers' homes, and in the consumer home. Due to this, the income of the farmer decreases and the expense of the consumer increases. Gelagay is working to fix this problem by using a renewable energy power machine at an affordable price. It generates income by selling processed, high-quality, long-lasting, and fresh fruits and vegetables to customers for a long time at an affordable price.

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

Gelagay aims to increase farmers' incomes and reduce consumers' expenses on fruits and vegetables by addressing several key challenges. The primary issues include: High Spoilage Rates: Fruits and vegetables often spoil at various stages, such as harvesting, loading, unloading, transporting, and storing, as well as due to exchange processes and moisture content. Seasonal Production: In many developing countries, including ours, agricultural production is seasonal. This leads to significant market fluctuations, with prices soaring at one time and plummeting at another. Gelagay addresses this by collecting and processing produce when prices are low, preserving them for later use. Transportation Costs: The cost of transporting fruits and vegetables contributes to higher prices, impacting consumer expenses. Insufficient Consumption: Many people worldwide do not consume enough fruits and vegetables due to their high cost and variable quality.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

Gelagay has the following advantages: Reduced Spoilage: Gelagay minimizes the spoilage of fruits and vegetables, addressing the issues highlighted in the problem section. Extended Shelf Life: It increases the shelf life, quality, and freshness of produce, ensuring availability throughout the year at stable prices. Increased Farmer Income: Farmers' incomes will rise as a result of decreased spoilage and improved market conditions. Lower Consumer Expenses: Consumers will benefit from reduced expenses on fruits and vegetables. Reduced Transportation Costs: Gelagay helps lower the costs associated with transporting produce. Improved Dietary Intake: More people will be able to consume sufficient amounts of fruits and vegetables, contributing to a healthier diet.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Our project benefits a wide range of stakeholders, including: Farmers: Farmers will see an increase in income by reducing spoilage of fruits and vegetables. They also have the opportunity to sell their produce at affordable prices during times of surplus. Consumers: Consumers can purchase high-quality, fresh fruits and vegetables with long shelf lives at affordable prices year-round, reducing their overall expenses on produce. Wholesalers and Retailers: Wholesalers and retailers will benefit from selling good quality, long-lasting fruits and vegetables. This will decrease spoilage in their stores and improve customer satisfaction. Hotels, Cafés, and Restaurants: These establishments will also benefit by being able to purchase high-quality fruits and vegetables at affordable prices throughout the year. They will have access to fresh produce, including pre-prepared fruits and vegetables, ensuring they can offer the best to their customers.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-09-24

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

3

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

2

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

Hiwot Teklemariam, a marketing and management student at Nifas Silk Pol Technique, is 20 years old and currently serves as a business consultant at Breakthrough Trading SC. With a strong vision to establish her own business within the next five years, Hiwot is known for her expansive thinking, critical mindset, excellent communication skills, and friendly demeanor. She excels both in team settings and as an individual contributor. Yemisrach Gashaw, studying civil engineering and management at AASTU is actively involved in various projects including Geraht Technology and food processing. Known for her creativity, efficient time management, and diligent work ethic, Yemisrach consistently demonstrates her commitment to achieving goals. Tigabu, a 27-year-old with a master's degree in thermal engineering, engages in diverse research-based projects following his graduation with honors from AASTU. Renowned for his creativity, effective communication, honesty, strong time management skills.

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

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

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

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

The Gelagay project contributes to No Poverty in several significant ways: Increased Farmer Income: By reducing the spoilage of fruits and vegetables. This financial stability supports farmers in lifting themselves out of poverty. Economic Stability: Gelagay helps mitigate the economic volatility that often affects small-scale farmers and rural communities. Affordable Produce for Consumers: Gelagay allows consumers to buy high-quality, fresh produce at affordable prices year-round. Job Creation:from manufacturing and installation to maintenance and operation, providing additional income opportunities for communities. Support for Local Markets: Gelagay encourages local production and processing of fruits and vegetables, fostering local economies and reducing reliance on imported goods, which can be more expensive and less accessible for poorer populations.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Gelagay project contributes to Zero Hunger in several impactful ways: Reduced Food Waste: By minimizing spoilage at various stages—from harvesting to storage—Gelagay ensures more fruits and vegetables reach consumers. Extended Shelf Life: Gelagay enhances the shelf life of produce, making it possible for fruits and vegetables to remain fresh longer. Affordable Nutrition: With Gelagay, fruits and vegetables are kept fresh and high-quality, and sold at stable, affordable prices. This makes it easier for low-income families to access nutritious food, improving dietary intake and reducing hunger. Support for Farmers: By increasing farmers' incomes encourages agricultural productivity. More productive farms mean more food is available locally, contributing to food security in rural areas. Enhanced Food Distribution: Gelagay reduces transportation costs and logistical barriers by preserving produce for longer periods.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

Gelagay contributes significantly to Good Health and Well-being in several key ways: Improved Nutrition: Gelagay increases access to fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables year-round at affordable prices. This availability supports balanced diets rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are crucial for overall health and well-being. Reduced Malnutrition: By preserving the nutritional content of fruits and vegetables through extended shelf life, Gelagay helps combat malnutrition, especially in vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women who require adequate nutrition for proper growth and development. Healthier Communities: Access to nutritious food promotes healthier lifestyles and reduces the risk of diet-related diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Gelagay's contribution to reducing food insecurity also indirectly improves mental health and social well-being in communities.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Educational Outreach: Gelagay can implement educational programs and workshops aimed at farmers, consumers, and local communities. These programs may focus on sustainable agricultural practices, food preservation techniques, and nutritional education. By equipping individuals with knowledge and skills related to agriculture and nutrition, Gelagay supports lifelong learning opportunities. Partnerships and Collaboration: Gelagay may collaborate with educational institutions, NGOs, and local governments to integrate agricultural and nutritional education into school curricula and community programs. These partnerships facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity building, further enhancing educational opportunities for individuals and communities.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Water Conservation: By reducing spoilage of fruits and vegetables, Gelagay helps conserve water resources. Water-intensive agricultural practices often contribute to water scarcity and pollution. Minimizing food waste through improved storage and preservation techniques indirectly conserves water that would otherwise be used in production processes. Efficient Water Use: Gelagay promotes efficient water use in agriculture by supporting practices that minimize spoilage and maximize crop yield. Farmers using Gelagay technology can optimize water resources for irrigation and other agricultural needs, thus reducing overall water consumption per unit of produce. Sanitation Improvement: Gelagay's focus on reducing food spoilage and improving food storage conditions contributes to better sanitation practices in agricultural settings. Proper handling and storage of fruits and vegetables prevent contamination and reduce the risk of waterborne diseases associated with poor food hygiene.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Utilization of Solar Energy: Gelagay operates using solar energy as its primary power source. By harnessing renewable energy, the project reduces reliance on fossil fuels and contributes to cleaner energy production. This helps mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution associated with traditional energy sources. Energy Efficiency: Gelagay incorporates energy-efficient technologies in its design and operations. This includes efficient refrigeration and preservation methods that minimize energy consumption while extending the shelf life of fruits and vegetables. This efficiency reduces overall energy demand and promotes sustainable energy practices. Cost Savings: By using solar energy, Gelagay lowers operational costs related to energy consumption. This makes the project economically viable and helps reduce the financial burden on farmers and consumers, particularly in rural areas where access to affordable energy can be limited.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

Income Generation: Gelagay increases farmers' incomes by reducing spoilage of fruits and vegetables and providing them with stable market access. This economic stability allows farmers to earn a reliable income from their agricultural activities, contributing to overall economic growth in rural areas. Job Creation: The implementation and operation of Gelagay technology can create employment opportunities in various sectors such as manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and operation. This job creation supports economic growth by providing livelihood opportunities for individuals within the local community. Enhanced Market Access: Gelagay facilitates better market access for farmers and enhances their bargaining power. By reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring consistent supply, the project strengthens agricultural value chains and promotes market integration, which are essential for economic development.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Technological Innovation: Gelagay utilizes solar-powered technology to preserve fruits and vegetables, thereby reducing spoilage and extending shelf life. This innovation improves efficiency in agricultural production and post-harvest handling, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. Infrastructure Development: Implementing Gelagay involves establishing infrastructure for solar-powered storage and processing facilities. These infrastructures support rural development by providing essential facilities for farmers and communities, enhancing their capacity to produce and preserve agricultural products effectively. Economic Growth: By reducing food waste and increasing market access for farmers, Gelagay stimulates economic growth in rural areas. This growth is driven by enhanced agricultural productivity and improved income opportunities, fostering local entrepreneurship and job creation related to agriculture and food processing.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

1. Reduced Food Waste: By minimizing spoilage of fruits and vegetables, Gelagay helps reduce food waste at various stages of the supply chain, from farms to urban markets and consumers. This supports more efficient use of resources within cities and reduces the environmental impact of food production and disposal. 2. Improved Urban Food Security: Gelagay ensures a steady supply of fresh, high-quality produce to urban populations throughout the year. This contributes to food security in cities by diversifying food sources and reducing dependency on distant agricultural regions, thereby enhancing resilience to food supply disruptions. 3. Promotion of Local Food Systems: Gelagay encourages local production and consumption of fruits and vegetables by supporting nearby farmers and reducing reliance on imported produce. This promotes local economic development, strengthens community ties, and fosters sustainable food systems within urban areas.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Reducing Food Waste: Gelagay minimizes spoilage of fruits and vegetables throughout the supply chain, from farm to consumer. By extending the shelf life of produce, the project helps reduce food waste, which is a crucial aspect of sustainable consumption and production. Promoting Sustainable Agriculture: Gelagay encourages farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural practices. These practices include efficient water use, reduced chemical inputs, and proper post-harvest handling techniques. By promoting sustainable agriculture, Gelagay supports responsible production methods that minimize environmental impact. Efficient Resource Use: The project optimizes the use of natural resources such as water and energy in agricultural production and food processing. This efficiency contributes to sustainable consumption patterns by reducing the ecological footprint associated with food production. Supporting Local Markets: Gelagay enhances local food systems by ensuring a stable supply

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Renewable Energy Use: Gelagay operates using solar energy as its primary power source. By utilizing renewable energy, the project reduces reliance on fossil fuels and contributes to the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions, thus supporting efforts to combat climate change. Reduced Food Waste: Gelagay minimizes spoilage of fruits and vegetables throughout the supply chain, from harvest to consumer. By reducing food waste, the project helps mitigate methane emissions from decomposing organic waste in landfills, a significant contributor to climate change. Sustainable Agriculture Practices: The project promotes sustainable agricultural practices, such as efficient water use, soil conservation, and integrated pest management. These practices help preserve ecosystems, maintain biodiversity, and enhance soil health, which are critical for climate resilience.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

6

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Reduced Agricultural Runoff: By promoting sustainable agricultural practices, Gelagay can help reduce the use of harmful pesticides and fertilizers that contribute to water pollution. This reduction in agricultural runoff benefits aquatic ecosystems by minimizing the introduction of pollutants into water bodies. Preservation of Water Resources: Efficient water management practices associated with Gelagay's agricultural processes, such as drip irrigation and water-efficient farming techniques, help conserve water resources. Conserved water resources support aquatic habitats and contribute to maintaining water quality in rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. Biodiversity Conservation: By reducing food waste and promoting sustainable food production, Gelagay contributes to biodiversity conservation. Preserved habitats and reduced environmental impact from agriculture help protect marine and freshwater species, supporting biodiversity both directly and indirectly dependent on aquatic ecosyst

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Promotion of Sustainable Agriculture: Gelagay encourages sustainable farming practices that help maintain soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem resilience. By reducing food waste and promoting efficient resource use, the project contributes to sustainable land management and conservation efforts. Biodiversity Conservation: By minimizing food spoilage and supporting local farmers, Gelagay helps preserve agricultural biodiversity. It promotes the cultivation of diverse varieties of fruits and vegetables, contributing to genetic diversity and resilience within agricultural landscapes. Reduction of Environmental Impact: Gelagay reduces the environmental impact of agriculture by optimizing resource use, including water and energy, and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions associated with food production and transportation. This helps mitigate climate change and supports the conservation of natural habitats.

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Economic Stability: By stabilizing income for farmers and reducing economic vulnerability in rural areas, Gelagay helps foster economic stability. Economic stability is a foundation for peaceful societies, as it reduces poverty and inequality, which are often underlying causes of social unrest. Community Resilience: Gelagay enhances the resilience of communities by improving food security and access to nutritious food. Adequate access to food reduces the risk of social tensions and conflicts arising from scarcity or unequal distribution of resources. Conflict Prevention: By creating stable market conditions and reducing economic volatility for farmers, Gelagay contributes to preventing conflicts that may arise from disputes over resources or market access. Stable agricultural incomes can mitigate tensions and contribute to peaceful coexistence. Community Engagement: Gelagay fosters community engagement through educational programs and collaborative initiatives.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Collaboration with Farmers: Gelagay collaborates closely with local farmers to implement its technology and practices. This partnership involves sharing knowledge on sustainable agricultural methods, improving crop yields, and reducing food waste. By working together, Gelagay and farmers contribute to mutual economic growth and resilience in agriculture. Engagement with Local Communities: Gelagay engages with local communities to understand their needs and challenges related to food security and nutrition. Through community outreach and educational programs, Gelagay builds partnerships that empower communities to adopt sustainable practices and make informed decisions about food consumption. Partnerships with NGOs and Organizations: Gelagay partners with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international development agencies, and other stakeholders to leverage resources, expertise, and networks.

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

7 - Strongly Agree

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

7 - Strongly Agree

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

6

05.08 Justification

Gelagay innovatively addresses an unmet need in agriculture and food security by combining renewable energy technology with solutions to reduce food spoilage and enhance access to fresh produce. Unlike traditional methods, Gelagay integrates solar-powered technology to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables, ensuring they remain high-quality and available year-round at stable prices. This approach not only tackles the challenge of perishability during transportation and storage but also empowers farmers with increased income opportunities through reduced spoilage. By creating a sustainable, cost-effective solution that spans from farm to consumer, Gelagay represents a new paradigm in agricultural innovation. Gelagay innovates by pioneering a holistic approach that leverages technology to meet the pressing demands of food security and sustainability in a way that previous methods have not fully addressed.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

Potential competitors for Gelagay include other agricultural technology solutions focused on reducing food spoilage and improving food distribution, such as cold storage solutions, food preservation technologies, and agricultural logistics companies. What sets Gelagay apart is its unique integration of solar-powered technology specifically tailored to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables. This innovation not only addresses the challenge of perishability effectively but also operates sustainably, reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. Gelagay comprehensive approach from farm to consumer, coupled with its affordability and impact on farmer incomes and consumer expenses, distinguishes it as a holistic and transformative solution in the agricultural technology sector. What makes Gelagay stand out is its focus on leveraging renewable energy (solar power) and other renewable energy source that we currently working to reduce operational costs and environmental impact.

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

Yes, when I was a university student and as I graduated from university, I am actively working within my community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs. I organize workshops and mentorship programs designed to empower women with the skills and knowledge needed to start and grow their own businesses. In collaboration with local organizations, I provide resources and networking opportunities for aspiring female entrepreneurs. Additionally, I advocate for gender equality in the business sector through community events and social media campaigns. By showcasing the successes and potential of female entrepreneurs, I aim to inspire and support more women to pursue entrepreneurial ventures.