Algeria - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Innovative vertical farm using hydroponics and aquaponics to provide fresh, pesticide-free produce year-round, while promoting sustainability and reducing reliance on food imports

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Gardens of Babylon revolutionizes agriculture in Algeria with a vertical farm integrated with a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS). Using advanced hydroponics and aquaponics, we ensure year-round, high-yield production of pesticide-free fruits, vegetables, and herbs in a controlled environment. Our pilot farm in Algiers, operational since June 2022, showcases the benefits of our automated farming solutions, delivering superior produce for local markets, including restaurants, hotels, and organic stores. AI-managed cultivation optimizes growth, ensuring consistent quality. We aim to reduce Algeria's dependency on food imports, enhance food security, and promote sustainable farming. By lowering water use and minimizing ecological impact, Gardens of Babylon meets agricultural needs and fosters a greener future. Our initiative drives economic resilience and environmental stewardship, offering a vital solution to Algeria's agricultural challenges.

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

Gardens of Babylon addresses key agricultural challenges in Algeria: 1. **Food Import Dependency**: Algeria relies heavily on imported food, risking food security and economic stability. 2. **Limited Arable Land**: Traditional farming is hindered by limited arable land and water, with a harsh climate causing inconsistent yields. 3. **Environmental Impact**: Conventional farming increases greenhouse gas emissions and water usage, harming the environment. 4. **Demand for Local Produce**: There's a high demand for fresh, quality, pesticide-free produce in Algeria. 5. **Sustainability**: Need for sustainable farming to conserve resources and ensure long-term food security. By using vertical farming and RAS, Gardens of Babylon produces consistent, high-quality, sustainable local produce year-round, reducing import dependency and environmental impact.

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

Gardens of Babylon offers these key benefits: 1. **Year-Round Production**: Our vertical farming and RAS technology ensure a consistent supply of fresh, pesticide-free produce throughout the year, unaffected by seasonal changes or climate conditions. 2. **Sustainability**: Our methods drastically reduce water usage and land requirements compared to traditional farming. Using hydroponics and aquaponics, we lower our environmental footprint and greenhouse gas emissions. 3. **Food Security and Local Economy**: By producing high-quality local produce, we decrease Algeria's dependency on food imports, enhance food security, stabilize prices, and support the local economy with job creation. Our fresh produce also meets the high demand from local markets, improving nutrition and availability.

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

Gardens of Babylon serves: 1. **Local Consumers**: Individuals seeking fresh, high-quality, pesticide-free produce for better nutrition and health. 2. **Restaurants and Hotels**: Establishments needing consistent, high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients for their culinary offerings. 3. **Organic Stores and Markets**: Retailers focusing on organic and sustainable products to meet eco-conscious consumer demand. 4. **Local Farmers**: Benefiting from our advanced techniques and training to adopt sustainable practices and enhance productivity. 5. **The Environment**: Our methods reduce water use, land requirements, and greenhouse gas emissions, promoting environmental conservation. This approach boosts food security, supports the local economy, and fosters sustainable agriculture in Algeria.

01.05 When was your company established?

2023-08-12

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?

2

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

The team behind Gardens of Babylon is comprised of skilled and experienced professionals: 1. Mokhtar Bouazza (CEO and Founder): With a Master's in Business Administration and extensive experience in managing startups, Mokhtar leads the strategic vision and overall management. His background includes successful ventures in technology and agriculture. 2. Bensalem Smain (Lab Director): A seasoned pharmacist with over 15 years of experience, Bensalem oversees the quality control and development of nutrient solutions for hydroponics and aquaponics, ensuring high-quality produce. 3. Amina Taifour (Agronomist): An expert in agronomy with years of practical experience, Amina is responsible for optimizing crop yields and implementing sustainable farming practices.

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?

h) IT (digital services, equipment and software)

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Gardens of Babylon helps reduce poverty by creating jobs and supporting local economies. Our vertical farming and aquaponics systems generate employment opportunities, improve food security, and stabilize local food prices. By reducing reliance on imports and promoting sustainable farming, we enhance local farmers' productivity and incomes. Our training programs equip farmers with advanced techniques, fostering economic growth and reducing poverty in their communities.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

### 02.02 ZERO HUNGER **Rating: 7 (Strongly Agree)** ### Justification: Gardens of Babylon directly addresses the Zero Hunger goal by ensuring a consistent supply of fresh, nutritious, and pesticide-free produce year-round. Our vertical farming and aquaponics systems optimize land and water use, allowing us to produce high-quality fruits, vegetables, and herbs efficiently. By reducing dependency on food imports, we enhance food security and ensure availability even during supply chain disruptions. Additionally, our sustainable practices promote long-term agricultural viability, contributing to improved nutrition and health for the community. By providing local farmers with training and advanced techniques, we also empower them to increase their yields sustainably, further supporting local food security and ending hunger.

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

Gardens of Babylon contributes significantly to the Good Health and Well-Being goal by providing access to fresh, pesticide-free produce, which is essential for a healthy diet. Our produce is rich in nutrients, promoting better overall health for the community. By ensuring year-round availability of high-quality fruits and vegetables, we support balanced diets and reduce the risk of malnutrition and diet-related illnesses. Additionally, our sustainable farming methods reduce the use of harmful chemicals, contributing to a healthier environment. Through our educational initiatives, we raise awareness about the importance of nutrition and healthy eating habits, further promoting well-being. Our focus on local production also ensures that produce reaches consumers faster, preserving its nutritional value and freshness. This holistic approach supports healthy lives and well-being for people of all ages.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

Gardens of Babylon contributes to Quality Education by offering training programs and workshops on sustainable farming practices, hydroponics, and aquaponics. These programs are designed to educate local farmers, students, and community members, providing them with valuable skills and knowledge in innovative agricultural techniques. By promoting lifelong learning opportunities, we help individuals improve their agricultural productivity and economic prospects. Our educational initiatives also raise awareness about the importance of sustainable farming and environmental stewardship, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and learning within the community. Additionally, we collaborate with educational institutions to integrate our programs into their curricula, ensuring inclusive and equitable access to quality education for all.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Gardens of Babylon actively promotes gender equality by ensuring equal opportunities for women in all aspects of our operations. We are committed to hiring and empowering women at every level, from management to on-the-ground farming roles. Our training programs are inclusive, encouraging women and girls to participate and develop skills in sustainable agriculture, hydroponics, and aquaponics. By providing these opportunities, we support the economic empowerment of women, enabling them to contribute significantly to their communities and achieve financial independence. Our policies foster a supportive work environment that values diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that women and girls have the resources and opportunities to succeed and lead in the agricultural sector. Through our efforts, we aim to break down barriers and promote gender equality within the industry and beyond.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

Gardens of Babylon strongly contributes to the Clean Water and Sanitation goal by implementing water-efficient farming practices through hydroponics and aquaponics. Our systems use up to 90% less water than traditional agriculture, significantly conserving this vital resource. We also employ recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) that filter and reuse water, minimizing waste and promoting sustainable water management. By reducing water usage and preventing contamination from pesticides and fertilizers, we contribute to cleaner water sources and better sanitation practices. Additionally, we educate local communities and farmers on water conservation techniques and sustainable farming practices, fostering a broader understanding and commitment to preserving clean water. Our approach not only supports agricultural productivity but also ensures the long-term sustainability and availability of water resources for all.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

5

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

Gardens of Babylon is committed to integrating sustainable energy solutions into our operations. We utilize energy-efficient technologies such as LED lighting for our vertical farms, which significantly reduce energy consumption compared to traditional lighting systems. Additionally, we are exploring the integration of renewable energy sources like solar panels to power our facilities, further reducing our carbon footprint and promoting clean energy use. By adopting these practices, we aim to demonstrate the feasibility and benefits of using modern, sustainable energy in agriculture. While we are not primarily an energy company, our efforts to incorporate clean energy solutions contribute to the broader goal of affordable and sustainable energy access. Our commitment to energy efficiency and renewable sources ensures that we operate sustainably and serve as a model for other agricultural enterprises.

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

Gardens of Babylon promotes economic growth by creating sustainable jobs and providing fair wages. Our vertical farming and aquaponics systems offer stable employment opportunities and require skilled labor. We train local farmers in advanced techniques, boosting productivity and economic resilience. By reducing food import dependency, we enhance local production and support small businesses. Our sustainable practices ensure long-term growth and environmental stewardship. We prioritize inclusive employment, promoting equality and reducing poverty. These efforts contribute to sustained economic growth and provide decent work for all.

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

Gardens of Babylon drives industry innovation and infrastructure by pioneering vertical farming and aquaponics in Algeria. Our advanced technologies create resilient agricultural infrastructure that optimizes space, water, and energy use. We foster innovation through research and development, continually improving our farming methods and integrating AI for precision agriculture. By training local farmers and sharing best practices, we promote sustainable industrialization and inclusive growth. Our approach not only enhances food security but also supports the development of modern, efficient agricultural infrastructure, setting a new standard for the industry in the region.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Gardens of Babylon contributes to reducing inequalities by providing equal employment opportunities and fair wages. We ensure our workforce is diverse and inclusive, offering training and advancement for all, regardless of background. Our affordable, high-quality produce increases access to nutritious food for underserved communities. By empowering local farmers with advanced techniques, we help bridge the gap between small-scale farmers and larger agricultural enterprises. Our initiatives promote economic stability and social equity, fostering a more inclusive and balanced society. Through these efforts, we support the reduction of inequalities within Algeria and contribute to broader regional development.

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

Gardens of Babylon promotes sustainable cities and communities by integrating vertical farms within urban areas, optimizing land use and reducing the environmental footprint of food production. Our farms provide local, fresh produce, reducing the need for long-distance transportation and associated emissions. By utilizing hydroponics and aquaponics, we conserve water and minimize waste, contributing to resource efficiency. We engage with local communities through education and employment, fostering social inclusion and resilience. Our sustainable practices support urban agriculture, enhance food security, and contribute to the development of green, self-sufficient urban spaces, making cities more inclusive, safe, and sustainable.

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

Gardens of Babylon ensures responsible consumption and production by implementing sustainable farming practices. Our vertical farming and aquaponics systems maximize resource efficiency, using significantly less water and land compared to traditional farming methods. We produce fresh, pesticide-free produce locally, reducing food miles and associated carbon emissions. Our closed-loop systems recycle water and nutrients, minimizing waste and promoting a circular economy. By educating consumers on the benefits of locally-sourced, sustainable produce, we encourage more responsible consumption patterns. Our commitment to sustainable practices ensures that we contribute to a more balanced and environmentally-friendly food production system.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Gardens of Babylon takes significant steps to combat climate change by employing sustainable agricultural practices. Our vertical farming and aquaponics systems drastically reduce water usage and land requirements, lowering our environmental impact. By growing produce locally, we reduce the carbon emissions associated with transportation. Our operations are designed to minimize the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, we are exploring renewable energy sources like solar power to further reduce our carbon footprint. Through these efforts, we actively contribute to mitigating climate change and its impacts, promoting a sustainable and resilient agricultural model.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

6

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

Gardens of Babylon contributes to the conservation of marine resources through sustainable aquaponics practices. Our recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) efficiently manage water and waste, reducing pollution and minimizing the impact on natural water bodies. By producing fish in a controlled environment, we lessen the pressure on wild fish populations and promote sustainable seafood consumption. Our methods ensure that water used in our systems is filtered and reused, preventing harmful runoff into oceans and seas. Through education and community engagement, we raise awareness about sustainable aquaculture and its benefits for marine ecosystems, supporting the health of life below water.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

Gardens of Babylon strongly supports the protection and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. Our vertical farming reduces the need for traditional agriculture, thus conserving natural habitats and preventing deforestation. By using hydroponics and aquaponics, we significantly decrease water usage and soil degradation, combating desertification and promoting land restoration. Our pesticide-free farming methods preserve biodiversity and protect soil health. Through sustainable practices, we promote the restoration of ecosystems and contribute to halting land degradation. Additionally, we educate local communities and farmers on sustainable agriculture, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship and biodiversity conservation.

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

5

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Gardens of Babylon promotes peaceful and inclusive societies by fostering economic stability and job creation in local communities. Our operations emphasize transparency, fairness, and ethical practices, ensuring accountability at all levels. We support inclusive employment practices, providing equal opportunities for all, which helps build a more just society. By collaborating with local institutions and engaging in community outreach, we contribute to strengthening social cohesion and trust. While our primary focus is on sustainable agriculture, these efforts indirectly support the development of strong, accountable institutions and promote social peace and justice.

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

Gardens of Babylon actively engages in partnerships to advance sustainable development goals. We collaborate with local governments, educational institutions, and NGOs to promote sustainable agricultural practices and innovation. By partnering with international organizations, we exchange knowledge, technologies, and best practices to enhance our operations and impact. Our training programs for local farmers are developed in collaboration with agricultural experts, ensuring the dissemination of advanced techniques and sustainable methods. These partnerships strengthen our capacity to implement sustainable solutions, drive community development, and contribute to the global effort for sustainable development. Through these collaborations, we foster a network of stakeholders dedicated to achieving shared sustainability goals.

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

3

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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

5

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.

3

06.08 Justification for my startup

Gardens of Babylon is unique and innovative: New Technology: We use advanced vertical farming and aquaponics with AI for optimized growth and resource management. New Product/Service: Our combination of vertical farming and aquaponics ensures year-round supply of fresh, pesticide-free produce. Improvement: We drastically reduce water usage, land requirements, and environmental impact while increasing yield and consistency. Unmet Needs: We meet the demand for local, sustainable, nutritious food, reducing reliance on imports and enhancing food security. Extension: Our educational programs promote sustainable practices among local farmers and consumers. This blend of new technology, improved methods, and addressing unmet needs makes Gardens of Babylon a leader in sustainable agriculture.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Main Competitors: Traditional Farms: High water, land use, and pesticide reliance. Local Markets: Fresh produce but inconsistent and less sustainable. Imported Produce: Variety but high carbon footprint and lower freshness. Our Edge: Sustainability: Uses less water, land, and no pesticides. Technology: AI optimizes growth for consistent, year-round yields. Local Impact: Reduces emissions, supports the economy, enhances food security. Community: Provides training, promotes sustainable practices. These factors make Gardens of Babylon unique and competitive in the market.

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

Yes, I am actively involved in promoting the role of female entrepreneurs through various initiatives: Collaboration with NGOs: I work with organizations like the National Organization of Labor and Startups to create opportunities for women in entrepreneurship. Algeria Venture Ambassador: As an ambassador, I advocate for female entrepreneurs, providing mentorship and support to help them succeed. Startup Weekend Mascara: As the project manager, I organized events specifically aimed at empowering women, including workshops and networking opportunities. E-commerce Training for Artisanal Women: I conduct training sessions for artisanal women, teaching them how to leverage e-commerce to expand their businesses from home. These actions are designed to empower women, provide them with essential skills, and create a supportive community for female entrepreneurs.