Kenya - Startup under 3 years old

Décrivez votre projet en quelques mots

Collarosta Technologies and Crafts provides sustainable energy solutions and an e-commerce platform for artisans, promoting environmental conservation and improving livelihoods in Kisumu, Kenya, through eco-friendly briquettes and recycled handicrafts.

01.01 Décrivez votre startup en détail

Collarosta Technologies and Crafts is a social enterprise in Kisumu, Kenya, focused on environmental conservation and community empowerment. We address deforestation and waste management by producing affordable, eco-friendly briquettes from biodegradable materials, reducing reliance on charcoal and wood fuel. Our briquettes burn longer, emit less smoke, and are cost-effective, contributing to climate change mitigation and improved health outcomes. Additionally, we operate an e-commerce platform enabling artisans to sell recycled and upcycled handicrafts, generating sustainable incomes. Our initiatives align with SDGs 12 and 13, fostering sustainable consumption, reducing waste, and integrating climate change measures into local practices. We aim to enhance living standards, conserve the environment, and promote health and social wellbeing through innovative, community-driven solutions.

01.02 Quel est le problème principal que vous essayez de résoudre ?

The main problem we are addressing is the environmental and socio-economic impact of deforestation and inadequate waste management in Kisumu, Kenya. Widespread use of charcoal and wood fuel contributes to deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, and respiratory health issues, particularly among low and middle-income families. Concurrently, improper waste management leads to pollution, disease, and environmental degradation. Our solution includes producing affordable, eco-friendly briquettes from biodegradable materials to reduce dependence on traditional fuels, and providing an e-commerce platform for artisans to sell recycled and upcycled handicrafts. This dual approach mitigates climate change, improves health outcomes, generates sustainable livelihoods, and promotes environmental conservation. Our initiatives align with SDG goals, aiming to foster sustainable consumption, reduce waste, and integrate climate change measures into local practices.

01.03 Dites-nous quels sont les principaux avantages et/ou bénéfices de l'utilisation du produit/service fourni par votre startup (au moins 3).

Our startup, Collarosta Technologies and Crafts, offers several major benefits through our products and services: Environmental Conservation: Our eco-friendly briquettes, made from biodegradable materials, reduce deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions by providing an alternative to charcoal and wood fuel. This helps mitigate climate change and preserves biodiversity. Economic Empowerment: Our e-commerce platform enables artisans to sell recycled and upcycled handicrafts, generating sustainable incomes. The affordable briquettes also reduce energy costs for low and middle-income families, improving their financial stability. Health Improvement: The use of briquettes results in less smoke and fewer respiratory issues compared to traditional fuels. Additionally, proper waste management through recycling and upcycling reduces pollution and disease risks, enhancing overall community health.

01.04 Veuillez décrire précisément à qui s'adresse le produit/service de votre startup. Quels sont les bénéficiaires visés ?

Low and Middle-Income Families: These families in Kisumu, Kenya, rely heavily on traditional fuels like charcoal and wood. Our affordable, eco-friendly briquettes provide a cost-effective alternative, reducing their energy expenses and improving their health by lowering exposure to harmful smoke. Artisans: Local artisans who create recycled and upcycled handicrafts benefit from our e-commerce platform, which expands their market reach, increases their sales, and provides sustainable livelihoods. Community at Large: The broader community benefits from improved environmental conservation efforts. Our initiatives reduce deforestation, manage waste effectively, and promote cleaner, healthier living conditions, contributing to overall social and environmental wellbeing.

01.05 Quand votre entreprise a-t-elle été créée ?

31/08/2022

01.06 Vendez-vous déjà votre produit/service ?

Oui

01.07 Combien y a-t-il de propriétaires de votre entreprise en plus de vous ?

5

01.08 Parmi les autres propriétaires, combien sont des femmes ?

4

01.09 Veuillez décrire le profil des autres propriétaires de votre startup (compétences, expérience, etc.).

Ivan Otieno, in charge of programs and operations, a project management expert, has effective leadership, planning, organizing, decision making and communication skills Minnah Aketch, in charge of finance and administration, a business administrator, has effective analysis, IT, numeracy, writing, reporting, planning and organization skills. Alice Moude, in charge of marketing and public relations, a nutritionist, has effective communication, negotiation, scheduling and business acumen skills. Wycliffe Omondi, in charge of audit, a supply chain management lecturer, has effective attentiveness, IT, business acumen, data mining and analytical skills. Mercy Mary, in charge of monitoring and evaluation, an entrepreneur, has effective research, business acumen, problem solving and attentiveness skills Francisca Guya, who is a casual work coordinator, experienced in workplace leadership, is observant and attentive to the details.

01.10 Si vous avez un site web, une page sur les médias sociaux (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin...) ou une application, veuillez fournir le(s) lien(s) ici :

https://collarosta.org/

01.11 Quel est le secteur d'activité qui décrit le mieux votre entreprise ?

Autre : Renewable Energy and Environmental Conservation.

02.01.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Pas de pauvreté'

6

02.01.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Our startup, Collarosta Technologies and Crafts, contributes significantly to the goal of No Poverty by creating sustainable economic opportunities for low and middle-income families and artisans in Kisumu, Kenya. By producing and selling affordable, eco-friendly briquettes, we help reduce energy costs for these families, freeing up resources for other essential needs. Additionally, our e-commerce platform enables local artisans to sell recycled and upcycled handicrafts, providing them with a stable income source. These initiatives directly improve the financial stability and living standards of our beneficiaries, helping to lift them out of poverty and contributing to broader economic development in the region.

02.02.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Faim Zéro'

5

02.02.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Our startup indirectly contributes to the Zero Hunger goal by promoting environmental sustainability and economic empowerment, which are crucial for achieving food security and improved nutrition. By reducing deforestation through the use of eco-friendly briquettes, we help preserve ecosystems that support agriculture. Additionally, by providing affordable energy solutions, we enable low and middle-income families to allocate more resources to food and nutrition. The economic empowerment of artisans through our e-commerce platform also increases their financial capacity to afford better nutrition for their families. While our primary focus is not directly on food production, our efforts contribute to the broader conditions necessary for food security and sustainable agriculture.

02.03.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Bonne Santé et Bien Être'

6

02.03.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Collarosta Technologies and Crafts contributes significantly to the goal of Good Health and Well-being by promoting cleaner energy solutions and reducing respiratory health risks associated with traditional charcoal and wood fuel. Our eco-friendly briquettes emit less smoke, thereby improving indoor air quality and reducing respiratory infections, particularly among women who are primary food handlers. This directly contributes to better health outcomes and well-being for our beneficiaries. Additionally, our initiatives in waste management and environmental conservation help reduce pollution and mitigate environmental factors that affect health. By promoting sustainable practices and providing economic opportunities through our e-commerce platform for artisans, we contribute to overall community well-being and support the UN's goal of ensuring healthy lives for all.

02.04.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Éducation de Qualité'

5

02.04.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

While our primary focus is on environmental conservation and economic empowerment, Collarosta Technologies and Crafts indirectly contributes to the Quality Education goal. By promoting sustainable practices and providing economic opportunities through our initiatives, we support the community's capacity to invest in education. Families benefiting from our affordable briquettes can allocate more resources to education expenses, such as school fees and supplies. Additionally, through our e-commerce platform, we raise awareness about environmental sustainability and encourage artisans to incorporate recycling and upcycling principles into their crafts, which can be educational for both artisans and consumers. While education is not our direct service, our efforts create an enabling environment that supports lifelong learning opportunities and contributes to the broader goals of quality education.

02.05.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Égalité entre les Sexes'

6

02.05.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Collarosta Technologies and Crafts significantly promotes Gender Equality by empowering women. In Kisumu, women often handle cooking, exposing them to health risks from traditional fuels like charcoal. Our clean, affordable briquettes reduce smoke exposure, improving women's health and quality of life. Additionally, our e-commerce platform supports female artisans, offering economic opportunities and financial independence. This fosters inclusivity and empowers women in decision-making roles, advancing gender equality. Overall, our efforts aim to create a more equitable society where women thrive economically and socially, aligning with the UN's goal of gender equality.

02.06.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Eau Propre et Assainissement'

5

02.06.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Collarosta Technologies and Crafts contributes to the Clean Water and Sanitation goal through environmental conservation and waste management initiatives. Our focus on sustainable energy solutions and economic opportunities indirectly aids water and sanitation. Eco-friendly briquettes reduce deforestation, preserving watersheds and water quality, crucial for sustainable water management by preventing soil erosion and sedimentation. Waste management, including recycling, reduces pollution, creating cleaner environments that indirectly benefit water sources and sanitation conditions. While our impact is indirect, our commitment to environmental sustainability and community health aligns with ensuring clean water and sanitation for all, per the UN's SDGs.

02.07.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Énergie Propre et Abordable'

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.07.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Collarosta Technologies and Crafts significantly advances the Affordable and Clean Energy goal by offering sustainable solutions through eco-friendly briquettes. Made from biodegradable materials like water hyacinth and municipal waste, our briquettes reduce reliance on charcoal and wood fuel. They provide a cleaner, more affordable option for cooking, heating, and industrial purposes, enhancing energy access for low and middle-income families in Kisumu, Kenya. Promoting briquette use directly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and aids in climate change mitigation. Our initiative supports sustainable energy practices, ensuring reliable access to clean energy crucial for economic growth and environmental sustainability. In essence, our commitment to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy strongly aligns with the UN's SDG of Affordable and Clean Energy, benefiting communities and fostering environmental conservation and climate resilience.

02.08.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Travail Décent et Croissance Économique'

6

02.08.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Collarosta Technologies and Crafts significantly contributes to Decent Work and Economic Growth by creating sustainable jobs and fostering inclusive economic development in Kisumu, Kenya. Our eco-friendly briquette production and e-commerce platform for recycled handicrafts provide income opportunities, especially for local artisans, including women. We empower individuals through employment in briquette manufacturing and sales, as well as through online retail of upcycled goods, promoting financial stability and livelihood improvement. Emphasizing fair wages, safe working conditions, and skills enhancement, we cultivate a productive and inclusive workforce. Furthermore, our initiatives enhance local economic resilience by reducing reliance on traditional energy sources and promoting eco-friendly practices. By supporting small-scale entrepreneurs and artisans, we stimulate economic growth, advance social equity, and foster community well-being. In summary, Collarosta Technologies an

02.09.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Industrie, Innovation et Infrastructure'

6

02.09.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Collarosta Technologies and Crafts contributes significantly to the goal of Industry Innovation and Infrastructure by promoting sustainable industrial practices and fostering innovation in Kisumu, Kenya. Our production of eco-friendly briquettes exemplifies innovation by utilizing biodegradable materials like water hyacinth and municipal waste, reducing environmental impact compared to traditional charcoal. Through our e-commerce platform for recycled handicrafts, we support local artisans in showcasing innovative products made from environmental waste. This initiative not only promotes inclusive economic growth but also encourages creativity and entrepreneurship among marginalized groups. Moreover, our efforts in briquette manufacturing and sales contribute to building resilient infrastructure by providing alternative energy sources that lessen dependence on deforestation for wood fuel. This supports sustainable development by reducing carbon emissions and preserving natural resources

02.10.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Réduction des Inégalités'

6

02.10.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Collarosta Technologies and Crafts contributes to the Reduced Inequalities goal by creating economic opportunities for marginalized communities in Kisumu, Kenya. Our eco-friendly briquette production and e-commerce platform for recycled handicrafts empower local artisans, especially women, by providing them with sustainable income sources and financial independence. We prioritize inclusivity by ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for all employees, fostering an equitable workforce. Our initiatives help bridge economic disparities by supporting small-scale entrepreneurs and artisans, enabling them to improve their livelihoods and achieve financial stability. Additionally, by offering affordable and sustainable energy solutions, we reduce the economic burden on low and middle-income families, enhancing their quality of life. Our commitment to social equity and economic empowerment directly aligns with the UN's goal of reducing inequalities within and among countries, promot

02.11.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Villes et Communautés Durables'

6

02.11.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Collarosta Technologies and Crafts contributes to the Sustainable Cities and Communities goal by promoting eco-friendly practices and sustainable energy solutions in Kisumu, Kenya. Our production of briquettes from biodegradable materials like water hyacinth and municipal waste reduces reliance on traditional fuels, decreasing deforestation and air pollution. This contributes to creating cleaner, healthier urban environments. Our e-commerce platform for recycled and upcycled handicrafts encourages waste management and recycling, reducing the environmental footprint of urban areas. By supporting local artisans and providing economic opportunities, we foster inclusive community development and resilience. Additionally, our initiatives in environmental conservation and sustainable energy support the creation of resilient urban infrastructure. By addressing key urban challenges such as waste management and energy sustainability, we contribute to making cities more safe and inclusive.

02.12.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Consommation et Production Responsables'

6

02.12.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Collarosta Technologies and Crafts significantly contributes to the Responsible Consumption and Production goal by promoting sustainable practices and the circular economy in Kisumu, Kenya. Our eco-friendly briquettes are produced from biodegradable materials such as water hyacinth and municipal waste, reducing reliance on traditional, unsustainable fuels like charcoal and wood. This approach minimizes waste and promotes the efficient use of resources. Our e-commerce platform supports the sale of recycled and upcycled handicrafts, encouraging the reuse of materials and reducing the environmental impact of production. By creating market opportunities for products made from recycled materials, we foster a culture of sustainability and responsible consumption among consumers. Additionally, our focus on waste management, recycling, and upcycling helps reduce pollution and supports cleaner production processes.

02.13.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Lutte contre les Changements Climatiques'

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.13.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Collarosta Technologies and Crafts actively contributes to the Climate Action goal by providing sustainable energy solutions and promoting environmentally friendly practices. Our eco-friendly briquettes, made from biodegradable materials like water hyacinth and municipal waste, significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional charcoal and wood fuel. This helps combat deforestation and mitigates climate change impacts. By encouraging the use of our briquettes, we support the reduction of carbon footprints in households and industries, directly addressing climate change. Additionally, our initiatives in recycling and upcycling reduce waste, lower pollution, and promote the sustainable use of resources. Our commitment to environmental conservation includes educating communities about the importance of sustainable practices and the impacts of climate change.

02.14.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Vie Sous-Marine'

5

02.14.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Collarosta Technologies and Crafts contributes to the Life Below Water goal by utilizing water hyacinth, an invasive aquatic plant, in the production of our eco-friendly briquettes. This not only provides a sustainable energy alternative but also helps in the removal of water hyacinth, which can choke water bodies, disrupt aquatic ecosystems, and hinder marine biodiversity. By promoting proper waste management practices and reducing pollution through our recycling and upcycling initiatives, we indirectly benefit marine environments. Reducing the amount of waste that enters water bodies helps protect aquatic life and maintains healthier marine ecosystems. While our primary focus is on land-based activities, the indirect benefits of our efforts in reducing pollution and managing invasive species contribute to the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources. This aligns with the UN's goal of promoting sustainability in marine environments.

02.15.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Vie Terrestre'

6

02.15.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Collarosta Technologies and Crafts contributes to the Life on Land goal by promoting sustainable land use and conservation through our eco-friendly briquettes. By utilizing biodegradable materials such as water hyacinth and municipal waste, we reduce the reliance on traditional charcoal and wood fuel, which in turn helps preserve forests and reduces deforestation. Our waste management practices, including recycling and upcycling, help combat land degradation and promote the sustainable use of terrestrial resources. By reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, we contribute to maintaining healthier ecosystems and preventing soil contamination. Additionally, our efforts in community education and awareness on environmental conservation practices encourage sustainable land management and biodiversity preservation. By supporting local communities in adopting eco-friendly practices, we help halt and reverse land degradation and biodiversity loss, aligning with the UN's goal

02.16.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Paix, Justice et Institutions Efficaces'

5

02.16.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Collarosta Technologies and Crafts contributes to the Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions goal by fostering inclusivity and economic empowerment within local communities in Kisumu, Kenya. By providing sustainable employment opportunities, particularly for marginalized groups such as women, we promote social equity and reduce economic disparities, which are essential for peaceful societies. Our commitment to fair business practices and ethical sourcing of materials ensures accountability and transparency in our operations. This promotes trust and cooperation within the community, supporting the development of strong, inclusive institutions. Moreover, our educational initiatives on environmental conservation and sustainable practices raise awareness and encourage community involvement in local governance and decision-making processes. This active participation helps build effective and accountable institutions at all levels, contributing to the overall goal of promoting peace.

02.17.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Parteneriats pour la Réalisation des Objectifs'

6

02.17.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Collarosta Technologies and Crafts actively contributes to the Partnerships for the Goals by collaborating with various stakeholders to promote sustainable development. We engage with local communities, NGOs, and governmental bodies to implement our eco-friendly briquette production and e-commerce platform for recycled handicrafts. These collaborations enhance our impact by pooling resources, knowledge, and expertise, thus strengthening the means of implementation. Our partnerships with local artisans, particularly women, foster inclusive economic growth and social equity. By providing training and market access, we empower these artisans, contributing to their economic independence and community development. Additionally, we work with environmental organizations to promote sustainable practices and raise awareness about the importance of environmental conservation.

06.01 Un grand nombre de clients utilisent déjà un produit/service très similaire au nôtre.

1 = Pas du tout d'accord

06.02 Notre produit/service représente un type de produit/service entièrement nouveau

6

06.03 Notre produit/service pourrait être décrit comme une nouvelle technologie

6

06.04 Notre produit/service est une amélioration d'un produit ou d'un service existant

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

06.05 Notre produit/service pourrait être décrit comme une extension d'une gamme de produits ou de services

5

06.06 Notre produit/service répond à une demande ou à un besoin qui n'a pas été satisfait par d'autres produits/services.

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

06.07 Notre produit/service est une nouvelle version d'un ancien produit/service

2

06.08 Justification

Our startup strongly aligns with statements 6.03 and 6.06. We are developing a novel technology that addresses a significant gap in the market: affordable and sustainable energy solutions tailored to rural communities in developing regions. Existing solutions often fail to meet the specific needs of these communities due to high costs or insufficient environmental considerations. Our innovation leverages locally available biomass to create eco-friendly briquettes, offering a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels like charcoal and wood. This addresses the pressing demand for accessible energy solutions while reducing environmental impact.

06.09 Analyse compétitive

Our main competitors include traditional charcoal suppliers and other renewable energy startups focusing on urban markets. What sets us apart is our dual commitment to affordability and sustainability. Unlike charcoal, which contributes to deforestation and air pollution, our briquettes utilize renewable biomass sources like agricultural waste and water hyacinth. This not only lowers production costs but also promotes environmental conservation. Additionally, our focus on rural communities ensures that our products are tailored to local needs and preferences, enhancing adoption rates and long-term viability. By combining innovation with community-centric solutions, we aim to establish a competitive edge in the renewable energy sector.

11.05 Menez-vous des actions au sein de votre communauté pour promouvoir le rôle des femmes entrepreneurs ?

Advocating for policies supporting female-led businesses