Zimbabwe - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

This project focuses on developing a line of natural, plant-based skincare and haircare products, using effective formulas that are free from harmful, synthetic chemicals, artificial preservatives and colourants, and other harsh ingredients.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

My natural haircare products will be formulated with nourishing plant-based ingredients that will help strengthen, moisturise and revitalise the hair, reducing the need for chemical laden styling products or extensions. By addressing common hair concerns such as dryness, frizz or breakage, consumers will be able to achieve healthy and manageable hair, without relying on synthentic enhancements. The natural skincare products, free from harsh chemicals and additives, will help consumers achieve a glowing healthy complexion by nourishing the skin and supporting its natural regenerative processes. This can boost self-confidence and encourage consumers to embrace their natural skin tone and texture, rather than feeling the need to cover it up or alter it with heavy makeup or synthetic products. The product line will include - body and hair - butters, oils and cleansers that will embrace the unique, natural features of our consumers by catering to diverse hair types, skin types and tones.

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

The main problem is the prevalence of synthetic, harsh ingredients in mainstream personal care products such as parabens, sulfates, and other chemicals that can be drying and irritating to the skin, and potentially harmful to human health and the environment. The ill-effects on human health include but are not limited to: hormone disruption, skin irritation, potential carcinogenic effects, and bioaccumulation in the body, while effects on the environment include pollution of waterways and ecosystems and harm to aquatic life and other animals. Additionally, many women feel the need to conform to narrow beauty standards which rely on external enhancements or modifications which can be painful and/or harmful to health. Using my natural personal care products however, will promote natural hair health and skin radiance. Women can therefore feel empowered to showcase their authentic, unaltered beauty. This can contribute to a sense of self-acceptance and body positivity.

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

The product line leverages plant-based ingredients sourced from local, regional suppliers. By harnessing the natural properties and synergestic benefits of locally grown ingredients, which are inherently better aligned with the regional climate, environmental factors and prevalent hair and skin types, the products can deliver enhanced efficacy and superior performance in addressing common hair and skin concerns. The product line will offer versatile, multi-purpose formulations that can address a range of haircare and skincare needs, simplifying and streamlining consumers' personal care routines. This can be particularly appealing to busy or minimalist consumers who seek efficient and consolidated solutions for their daily self-care regimen. The product offering will also improve general health, as the consumers will be educated on healthy habits that can be incorporated in the diet, which whilst improving hair and skin health, will simultaneously result in better health overall.

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

The product line aims to serve a segment of consumers who are environmentally and socially conscious. These individuals prioritize the use of natural, eco-friendly, and ethically sourced products, aligning with their values and commitment to sustainability. The target beneficiaries also include health-conscious and mindful consumers who are increasingly seeking natural, non-toxic personal care solutions. These individuals are dissatisfied with the availability or suitability of conventional, chemically laden products, are aware of the potential health and environmental risks associated with synthetic chemicals and are willing to invest in products that prioritize natural, high-quality ingredients. The product line is designed to cater to consumers with a diverse range of hair and skin types within the African community, who are seeking for a minimalist and yet effective solution to their hair and skin needs.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2022-07-01

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

0

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

0

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

Not applicable

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

2

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

3

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

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

5

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

My project focuses on providing natural, non-toxic personal care solutions that prioritize the health and well-being of consumers. By formulating my products with natural, sustainable, and ethically sourced ingredients, I am offering consumers an alternative to conventional personal care products that may contain harmful synthetic chemicals. It is also designed to cater to the unique needs and concerns of consumers, addressing issues related to skin and hair health and simultaneously contributing to improving the overall well-being and self-confidence of my target audience. The emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly practices within my product line can also have indirect positive impacts on public health and well-being, as they contribute to a healthier environment. The project will also incorporate educational and advocacy components to raise awareness on health and wellness.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

3

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

4

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

5

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

By focusing on natural, sustainable, and ethically-sourced ingredients, my project may have a lower impact on water resources and wastewater management compared to conventional personal care products. The emphasis on natural and non-toxic formulations can also contribute to reducing the burden on water treatment systems and overall water quality. My project's focus on natural, biodegradable, and eco-friendly products can encourage more responsible consumption and disposal habits among consumers. This can indirectly contribute to the protection and conservation of water resources, as well as better wastewater management. My project will also include implementation of water conservation and recycling measures within my own operations.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

2

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

By establishing my production and sourcing operations, my project is likely creating new employment opportunities, particularly in the local communities where I will operate. The focus on natural, sustainable ingredients may also generate economic opportunities for small-scale farmers, cooperatives, and suppliers, contributing to inclusive economic growth. As a natural and eco-friendly product line, my project will also emphasize ethical and safe working conditions throughout the supply chain, aligned with the principles of decent work. This can include fair wages, worker rights, occupational health and safety, and other labor standards. My project's focus on natural, sustainable, and innovative product formulations may spur entrepreneurial activities and foster a culture of innovation within the personal care industry. This can contribute to the diversification of economic activities and promote sustainable economic growth.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

5

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

My focus on developing natural, sustainable, and eco-friendly personal care products represents innovation within the industry. This can lead to the development of new technologies, processes, and formulations that can be shared and adopted more widely. Additionally, by emphasizing sustainable sourcing and production methods, my project can contribute to the development of more sustainable industrial practices and infrastructure within the personal care industry and serve as a model for other companies to adopt similar sustainable and innovative approaches.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

By creating employment and sourcing opportunities for local communities, particularly in areas where economic resources may be limited, my project can help reduce income and wealth inequalities. and engaging with small-scale suppliers, cooperatives, and marginalized groups can enhance their access to economic participation and growth. My project also focuses on natural and affordable personal care products and can help improve access and affordability for a broader range of consumers, including those from lower-income backgrounds. This can contribute to reducing disparities in access to such products and services. My product offering also actively empowers women and can help address systemic inequalities. The project's focus on natural and sustainable personal care products may also contribute to raising awareness and advocating for more inclusive and equitable practices within the industry.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

4

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Developing natural, eco-friendly, and sustainable personal care products is a direct contribution to responsible consumption and production practices. By using natural, renewable, and biodegradable ingredients, the project minimizes the use of harmful chemicals and promotes more sustainable consumption patterns. Emphasis on sustainable sourcing and production methods, such as engaging with small-scale suppliers and cooperatives, can help reduce the environmental footprint of my operations. This aligns with the principles of responsible production, including efficient use of resources, waste reduction, and promoting circularity. The project also incorporates measures to reduce packaging waste, and promote recycling of product packaging, which contributes significantly to responsible consumption and production practices. By positioning my products as sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives, this helps raise consumer awareness and promote more responsible consumption patterns.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

5

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

The use of natural, renewable, and biodegradable ingredients in my products can help reduce the carbon footprint and environmental impact associated with the personal care industry. Emphasis on engaging with small-scale suppliers and cooperatives, as well as the focus on sustainable sourcing and production methods, can contribute to lowering the greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact of my operations. The project also incorporates measures to reduce packaging waste and promote recycling, which can contribute to climate change mitigation through improved waste management.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

4

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

The use of natural, renewable, and biodegradable ingredients in my products can help minimize the negative impacts on terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity. By avoiding synthetic or harmful chemicals, my project promotes the protection and conservation of land-based environments. The emphasis on engaging with small-scale suppliers and cooperatives, as well as the focus on sustainable sourcing and production methods, can also contribute to the sustainable management of land-based resources and habitats. Additionally, the project incorporates measures to reduce packaging waste, and promote recycling, which can contribute to the prevention of land-based pollution and the preservation of land resources. The project also helps raise consumer awareness and promote more responsible consumption patterns that benefit land-based environments

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

3

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

4

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

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

3

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

3

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

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.

2

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.08 Justification

My products will make use of unique formulations by focusing on novel, high quality ingredients to create effective and safe products, and will use only sustainable and purely natural ingredients which will differentiate my products from existing offerings which contain synthetic and sometimes harmful ingredients. Most skincare in the market also makes use of harmful preservatives, while my products will be preservative-free, anhydrous formulations. And where preservatives are absolutely necessary, only those that are naturally derived will be used. My products will also be packaged in a combination of renewable and biodegradable materials, with special emphasis on limiting the use of plastic. By harnessing the traditional knowledge of my product ingredients and production processes, a strong emotional connection can be created with the local community, fostering a sense of pride and ownership in my products.

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

Main competitors include: -Established global natural or organic brands such as the Body Shop, Burt's Bees and Aveda that have a long history of offering natural and organic personal care products. -Smaller independent brands that have emerged in recent years within the region. -Mainstream brands like L'Oreal, and Unilever that have introduced natural sub-brands to cater to the growing demand for greener options. The combination of sustainable sourcing, innovative natural formulations, transparent operations, and community engagement can help the project stand out. Leveraging unique African botanicals, natural extracts, and traditional recipes in my product formulations can help the project stand out; and highlighting the efficacy and sustainability of these African-inspired ingredients can be a key selling point. The project will also use unique high performing purely natural formulations that rival and in some cases exceed the efficacy of competitors' products.

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