Nigeria - Startup under 3 years old

Décrivez votre projet en quelques mots

At Valens Farm and Kitchen, we process Eco-friendly catfish into dry, 100% sand-free, odorless fish for human consumption, fish oil, and pig feed, using plastics & nylon waste as fuel with black charcoal.

01.01 Décrivez votre startup en détail

"Valens Farm: is an innovative agricultural project offering a comprehensive catfish processing solution, leveraging eco-friendly practices. We process live catfish into: 1. Freshly Dry, sand-free, odorless fish for human consumption 2. Fish oil rich in Omega3, beneficial for eye and intestinal health 3. Pigs feed from fish intestines. Our drying process utilizes waste materials as fuel, including: * Plastic waste e,g (Cellophane, Nylon wastes etc) * Black charcoal from wood waste. This innovative drying process transforms the perishable fish into a non-perishable product, extending its shelf life to over 6 months, and reducing food waste increasing food security. We reduce our carbon footprint and promote sustainability by harnessing these waste materials. Our integrated approach ensures a closed-loop system, minimizing waste and maximizing value addition. We prioritize quality, sustainability, and innovation to deliver high-quality products while contributing to a greener future. "

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

1. Food waste reduction: By processing catfish into non-perishable products, We're extending its shelf life and reducing the likelihood of spoilage, and possible exportation soon. 2. Sustainable resource utilization: We use waste materials (plastics, cellophane, nylons, and charcoal) as fuel for the drying process, reducing economic waste and promoting eco-friendliness. 3. Food Security: By creating non-perishable fish products, we're increasing access to protein-rich food, particularly in areas with limited refrigeration or storage capabilities. 4. Value Addition: We're transforming a perishable product into a value-added, non-perishable one, enhancing its economic potential and contributing to the local economy. 5. Local Job Creation: We provide employment opportunities for local labor, contributing to the local economy and community development. By addressing these challenges, we're creating a sustainable, innovative, and impactful solution, with a positive impact on the environment

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).

1. Increased Food Security: Providing a reliable source of protein for consumers, particularly in areas with limited access to refrigeration. Some customers prefer well-dried fish over live ones. 2. Improved Nutrition: Offering fish oil and fish products rich in Omega3 fatty acids, supporting eye and intestinal health, and providing a rich source of protein. 3. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly: Minimizing waste, reducing the carbon footprint, and promoting sustainability by using waste materials as fuel and a closed-loop system. 4. Supports Local Economy: Contributing to community development and supporting the local economy through local resource use and employment. 5. Minimizing the environmental impact of operations through sustainable practices. 6. Improved Food Safety: Ensuring reduced risk of contamination through drying and packaging processes. 7. Demonstrating innovative solutions for sustainable food production, contributing to a more environmentally friendly food system.

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

1. Low-income communities: Our affordable and nutritious fish products cater to low-income households, providing them with access to protein-rich food. 2. Rural communities: The nonperishable fish products are ideal for rural areas with limited access to refrigeration, also there's this unique taste that dry fish adds to food that makes it even a major preference for fish lovers over fresh fish. 3. Health-conscious consumers: The fish oil and fish products rich in Omega3 fatty acids appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking nutritious food options. 4. local businesses and entrepreneurs: We also cater to local businesses such as restaurants, hotels, and entrepreneurs in the food industry. 5. The farm's innovative approach to sustainable food production may also attract development organizations and NGOs focused on food security and sustainability. 6. Our high-quality Fish Products may also be exported to neighboring countries shortly, promoting economic growth and regional trade.

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

01/12/2021

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 ?

1

01.08 Parmi les autres propriétaires, combien sont des femmes ?

1

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

Innocentia a co-owner, a female displays these experiences and skill sets. 1. Business Management: She has experience in managing businesses, particularly in agriculture and food processing. 2. She has a strong background in marketing, able to effectively promote our products to potential customers both online via social media and offline. 3. Operations Management: She is familiar with the entire process of drying live catfish, from waste collection to finished product packaging. 4. She has successfully managed, maintained, and even expanded the business for over 6 months while I was away on another skill up project demonstrating her ability to manage, innovate, and adapt. 5. Strong Communication Skills: She is an effective communicator, able to articulate our vision and mission to customers and stakeholders. 6. She is a team player, able to work with diverse groups of persons, from where we buy the live fish, to where we gather the wastes been used for fuel in the drying process.

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://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552334396356&mibextid=ZbWKwL

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

Matériaux (agriculture, pêche, produits chimiques, matériaux de construction, conteneurs et emballages, métaux et mines, papier et produits forestiers)

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

6

02.01.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Our start-up contributes in several ways: 1. We provide employment opportunities for local communities, reducing unemployment and increasing income levels. 2. By processing and marketing fish products, Our start-up offers a stable source of income for a farmer like me. 3. By utilizing local resources and talent, we contribute to local economic growth, reducing poverty and improving living standards. 4. Improved food security: By increasing access to nutritious food, Valens Farm helps reduce food insecurity, a key factor in poverty. By addressing poverty through these channels, Valens Farm contributes to achieving the "No Poverty" goal (SDG 1) and promotes sustainable development in my region.

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

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.02.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Justifications: 1.Increased food availability: By processing and marketing our Fish and fish products, We invariably increase the availability of nutritious food, reducing food scarcity and hunger. 2.Improved food access: Affordable pricing and widespread distribution of our products ensure that nutritious food is accessible to more people, reducing food scarcity. 3.Support for small-scale farmers: Valens Farm sources Fish from local farmers, supporting small-scale agriculture and promoting inclusive and sustainable food systems. 4.Reducing food waste: Valens Farm's processing and preservation technologies reduce post-harvest losses, minimizing food waste and ensuring more food is available for consumption. 5.Nutrition education: Valens Farm educates consumers (which can be seen on our Facebook Page) about the importance of nutrition and healthy eating, promoting awareness. We contribute to achieving the "Zero Hunger" goal (SDG 2) and promote sustainable and inclusive food systems.

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

1. Nutritional food products: Valens Farm's fish and fish oil products provide essential nutrients, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein, promoting healthy diets and well-being. 2. Environmental stewardship: By collecting plastic waste from the environment, Valens Farm reduces pollution, prevents harm to marine life, and promotes a healthier ecosystem. This indirectly contributes to human health and well-being by: - Reducing plastic pollution in waterways and oceans, which protects human consumption of fish and other seafood. - Preventing harmful chemicals from plastics from entering the food chain. - Supporting a healthier environment, which is essential for human well-being. By addressing health and well-being through both nutritious food products and environmental stewardship, Valens Farm contributes to achieving the "Good Health and Well-being" goal (SDG 3).

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

6

02.04.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

1. Training: At Valens Farm, we provide training programs and tools for farmers and marketers, enhancing their skills and knowledge in sustainable agriculture and food processing. 2. Promoting food security: By increasing access to nutritious food, Valens Farm contributes to improved health and well-being, which are essential for effective learning and educational achievement. 3. Empowering women and girls: Valens Farm's entrepreneurship and capacity-building programs may specifically target women and girls, promoting gender equality and empowering them to pursue education and economic opportunities. By these points, Valens Farm contributes to achieving the "Quality Education" goal (SDG 4).

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

5

02.05.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Valens Farm contributes to the Gender Equality goal (SDG 5) of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in several ways: - Equal Access: The farm ensures equal access to resources, technology, and markets for both men and women, bridging the gender gap in agriculture. - Capacity Building: Valens Farm offers capacity-building programs, focusing on women's leadership, financial literacy, and agricultural skills, enhancing their overall capacity and confidence. - Addressing Stereotypes: By promoting women's participation in agriculture, Valens Farm challenges traditional gender stereotypes and biases, creating a more inclusive and equitable work environment. - Economic Empowerment: By providing fair wages and income opportunities, Valens Farm contributes to reducing the gender pay gap, enabling women to achieve economic independence and stability. By addressing these gender-related aspects, Valens Farm contributes to achieving SDG 5, promoting gender equality and empowering women.

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

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.06.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Valens Farm contributes to SDG 6 by: - Preventing water pollution: By processing fish fat into fish oil and using the intestines as animal feed, we minimize the risk of fish waste and by-products contaminating water sources. - Conserving water: Our drying process utilizes alternative fuel sources (plastic, cellophane, nylon wastes, and black charcoal) instead of water, reducing the demand for water resources. - Promoting sustainable sanitation practices: By utilizing waste materials as fuel, we reduce the amount of waste that could potentially enter waterways or harm the environment. - Supporting hygiene and public health: By producing dried fish for human consumption, we contribute to food security and public health, which is closely linked to access to clean water and sanitation. While our project may not directly address traditional water and sanitation issues, our innovative approach to waste management and resource efficiency indirectly supports the goals of SDG 6.

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

6

02.07.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Valens Farm contributes to SDG 7 by: - Utilizing waste materials as fuel: By using plastic, cellophane, nylon wastes, and black charcoal from wood as fuel in the drying process, we reduce reliance on fossil fuels and decrease the amount of waste sent to landfills. - Promoting renewable energy: Our use of biomass (wood charcoal) as a fuel source aligns with the principles of renewable energy, reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources. - Increasing energy efficiency: By leveraging waste materials as fuel, we optimize energy production and reduce energy waste, contributing to more efficient energy use. - Providing access to energy for rural communities: As a rural-based farm, our innovative energy solution may inspire and support other local communities in adopting similar approaches, increasing access to clean and affordable energy. By adopting a circular economy approach and leveraging waste materials as fuel, Valens Farm contributes to achieving SDG 7.

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

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.08.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Valens Farm contributes to SDG 8 by: - Creating employment opportunities: Our farm provides jobs for people, contributing to decent work and reducing unemployment rates. - Promoting sustainable agriculture and processing practices: By processing catfish and fish by-products, we demonstrate sustainable agriculture practices, supporting the growth of the agricultural sector. - Stimulating local economic growth: By utilizing local resources (fish, wood charcoal) and creating value-added products (dried fish, fish oil, animal feed), we contribute to the local economy's growth and development. - Encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship: Our innovative approach to waste management and energy production sets an example for other entrepreneurs and farmers, inspiring innovation and progress in the sector. - Providing fair income opportunities: By selling our products, we generate a fair income for ourselves and our employees, aligning with the goal of decent work and fair compensation.

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

6

02.09.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Valens Farm contributes to SDG 9 by: - Promoting innovative agricultural practices: Our processing of catfish and fish by-products, and utilization of waste materials as fuel, demonstrate innovative approaches to agriculture and resource management. - Developing sustainable infrastructure: We're building a sustainable infrastructure supporting the local economy by establishing a processing facility that uses waste materials as fuel. - Upgrading industrial processes: Our drying process, which utilizes alternative fuel sources, improves the efficiency and sustainability of our operations, aligning to upgrade industrial processes. - Enhancing research and development: Our innovative approaches to fish processing and waste management may inspire further research and development in the agricultural sector, driving innovation and progress. By establishing a thriving business in a rural area, you're contributing to the development of infrastructure in these regions, supporting economic growth

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

6

02.10.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Valens Farm contributes to SDG 10 by: - Promoting economic empowerment for rural communities: By creating jobs and income opportunities in rural areas, we're reducing income inequality between urban and rural populations. - Providing access to nutritious food: Our dried fish products contribute to food security, especially in areas with limited access to fresh fish, reducing nutritional inequality. - Empowering marginalized groups: By training and employing local community members, including potentially marginalized groups, we're promoting social inclusion and reducing social inequality. - Reducing waste and pollution: Our innovative use of waste materials as fuel reduces environmental pollution, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities, thus addressing environmental inequality. - Fostering inclusive business practices: By leveraging local resources and talent, we're demonstrating inclusive business practices, reducing inequality in access to resources and opportunities.

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

6

02.11.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Valens Farm contributes to SDG 11 by: - Promoting sustainable urban and rural development: By utilizing waste materials as fuel and reducing waste pollution, we're contributing to sustainable development in both urban and rural areas. - Implementing resilient infrastructure: Our drying facility, which utilizes alternative fuel sources, demonstrates resilient infrastructure development, able to withstand environmental and economic shocks. - Enhancing urban-rural linkages: By processing fish and fish by-products from rural areas for urban consumption, we're strengthening urban-rural linkages and promoting sustainable regional development. - Supporting community development: By providing jobs, income opportunities, and training to local community members, we're contributing to community development and social cohesion. - Our innovative use of waste materials as fuel reduces environmental pollution, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment for urban and rural communities.

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

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.12.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Valens Farm contributes to SDG 12 by: - Implementing sustainable consumption practices: By utilizing 100% of the catfish, converting waste into valuable products (fish oil, animal feed), and minimizing waste, we embody responsible consumption. - Promoting sustainable agriculture practices: Our innovative approach to fish processing and waste management demonstrates sustainable agriculture practices, reducing environmental impact. - Reducing food waste: By processing fish into durable products (dried fish, fish oil), we reduce food waste and loss, aligning with the goal of halving food waste. - Using eco-friendly fuel sources: Our use of waste materials (plastic, cellophane, nylon) and black charcoal from woods as fuel reduces reliance on fossil fuels, promoting sustainable energy production. - By providing sustainable products (dried fish, fish oil) and promoting responsible consumption practices, we inspire consumers to embrace sustainable lifestyles.

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

6

02.13.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Valens Farm contributes to SDG 13 by: - Reducing greenhouse gas emissions: By using waste materials (plastic, cellophane, nylon) and black charcoal from wood as fuel, we reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lowering carbon emissions. - Promoting sustainable land use: Our innovative approach to fish processing and waste management demonstrates sustainable land use practices, reducing deforestation and habitat destruction. - Implementing climate-resilient agriculture practices: Our use of dried fish and fish oil products reduces food waste and supports climate-resilient agriculture practices. - Supporting carbon sequestration: The wood charcoal used in our process is a carbon sink, capturing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. - Encouraging sustainable consumption patterns: By providing sustainable products (dried fish, fish oil), we promote sustainable consumption patterns, reducing carbon footprint.

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

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.14.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Valens Farm contributes to SDG 14 by: - Promoting sustainable fisheries practices: By processing catfish into durable products (dried fish, fish oil), we support sustainable fisheries management and reduce overfishing. - Reducing marine pollution: Our innovative use of waste materials (plastic, cellophane, nylon) as fuel reduces marine pollution from plastic waste and supports a healthier ocean ecosystem. - Supporting aquatic biodiversity: By processing fish intestines into animal feed, we support the sustainable use of aquatic resources and promote biodiversity in aquatic ecosystems. - Encouraging eco-friendly aquaculture practices: Our sustainable approach to fish processing and waste management sets an example for eco-friendly aquaculture practices, reducing environmental impact. - Contributing to food security: By providing dried fish and fish oil products, we contribute to global food security, reducing pressure on wild fisheries and supporting sustainable seafood sources.

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

6

02.15.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Valens Farm contributes to SDG 15 by: - Promoting sustainable agriculture practices: Our innovative approach to fish processing and waste management demonstrates sustainable agriculture practices, reducing environmental impact. - Conserving biodiversity: By using fish intestines for animal feed, we support the sustainable use of aquatic resources and promote biodiversity in aquatic ecosystems. - Reducing waste and pollution: Our use of plastic, cellophane, and nylon wastes as fuel reduces waste pollution and supports a healthier terrestrial ecosystem. - Supporting sustainable forest management: The use of black charcoal from woods as fuel promotes sustainable forest management and reduces deforestation. - Encouraging sustainable land use: Our sustainable approach to fish processing and waste management sets an example for sustainable land use practices, reducing environmental degradation.

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

6

02.16.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Valens Farm contributes to SDG 16 by: - Promoting peaceful and inclusive societies: By providing sustainable livelihoods and income opportunities, we contribute to social cohesion and peaceful societies. - Ensuring access to justice: By operating a transparent and accountable business, we demonstrate commitment to fair practices and access to justice for all stakeholders. - Strengthening institutions: Our innovative approach to fish processing and waste management sets an example for institutional effectiveness and good governance. - Reducing corruption: By using waste materials as fuel, you reduce the risk of corruption associated with fossil fuel sourcing and support transparent practices. - Promoting the rule of law: Your compliance with environmental and social regulations demonstrates respect for the rule of law and support for strong institutions.

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

Valens Farm contributes to SDG 17 by: - Collaborating with local communities: Our business engages with local communities, providing jobs and income opportunities, and fostering partnerships for sustainable development. - Promoting public-private partnerships: Our innovative approach to fish processing and waste management demonstrates the potential for public-private partnerships to drive sustainable development. - Encouraging resource sharing: By utilizing waste materials as fuel, we showcase the importance of resource sharing and circular economy practices. - Advocating for sustainable development goals: By aligning our business with the SDGs, we raise awareness and advocate for sustainable development goals, encouraging others to join the effort.

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

6

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

3

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

3

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

6

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.

5

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

5

06.08 Justification

Before I ventured fully into Fish processing and drying, I had a market survey of the kind of Dry fish in the market, I noticed it was majorly dry fish from the north, and it was not as fresh as it ought to be, I took advantage of that and started processing mine in such a way that my dry fish will always be preferred over the one sent down from the Northern Nigeria. I took extra care in the whole process. I buy the Catfish alive, then kill them and cut into sizes, then wash thoroughly, I then season it before carrying them inside oven and monitor the drying from there for days. when Its done, I still sundry it for some days before its ready for distribution, so these processes gives it this unique taste and freshness, people buy it from me because of its freshness, 100% sand-free, and wonderful taste.

06.09 Analyse compétitive

1. Other catfish processing businesses 2. Fish oil producers 3. Animal feed manufacturers 4. Sustainable energy solutions providers What makes Valens Farm stand out from competitors: 1. Unique drying process using waste materials and black charcoal, reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. It has a unique taste and is more delicious compared to the ones dried with fossil fuel such as LPG 2. High-quality, 100% sand-free, and odorless dried fish products. 3. Omega-3-rich fish oil for human consumption and animal feed. 4. Closed-loop system: processing fish intestines into animal feed, reducing waste, and increasing efficiency. 5. Commitment to sustainability, reducing plastic waste, and promoting eco-friendly practices. 6. Local sourcing and engagement with the community, supporting regional development. 7. Innovative approach to waste management, setting an industry example.

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

Yes. I encourage female entrepreneurship by giving them my products on a consignment arrangement, where they receive the products at retail prices and remit payment after successfully selling the products.