EthiopiaArticleInvestment
The Power of Impact-Driven Business Development in Addressing Local Challenges
In the agricultural industry, the management of organic waste is a critical issue. Disposing of this waste in an environmentally friendly and sustainable way has become increasingly important, with many companies looking for viable solutions to prevent environmental hazards. In addition, farmers are looking for alternative sources of organic fertilizers. A business case involving a Dutch poultry producer and an agricultural producer in Ethiopia is a prime example of how such challenges can be addressed through close collaboration, sustained business development efforts, and access to financial resources.
During a visit to a Dutch poultry producer, TRAIDE Ethiopia discovered that the company had no viable solution for managing its organic waste. The company was concerned about the potential environmental hazards associated with this waste. Concurrently, an agricultural producer lacked access to organic fertilizers. TRAIDE Ethiopia took action by connecting the two companies, developing a sustainable business plan, and connecting them with RVO’s financial resources to launch a trial of organic fertilizer production.
The solution presented by TRAIDE was twofold. Firstly, they identified the organic waste produced by the Dutch poultry producer as an opportunity to create an alternative source of organic fertilizer for the agricultural producer. Secondly, TRAIDE connected the two companies, thereby creating a symbiotic relationship where the waste from the poultry producer is used to create organic fertilizer for the agricultural producer. This approach addresses both the environmental and agricultural concerns of the two companies, creating a sustainable and cost-effective solution.
To execute this plan, TRAIDE facilitated the development of a business plan and connected the companies with RVO’s financial resources. The plan included the creation of a small-scale organic fertilizer production plant, which would process the waste from the Dutch poultry producer into organic fertilizer for the agricultural producer. The organic fertilizer would then be sold to the agricultural producer at a competitive price. The organic fertilizer production plant would be operated by a local entrepreneur, creating employment opportunities in the community.
To ensure the success of the project, TRAIDE provided ongoing support and guidance to both companies. This included technical assistance for the development of the organic fertilizer production plant, as well as training on the production and use of organic fertilizers. TRAIDE also facilitated ongoing collaboration between the two companies, ensuring that the relationship remained symbiotic and mutually beneficial.
The project was successful in creating a sustainable solution to the organic waste management problem faced by the Dutch poultry producer and the lack of access to organic fertilizers for the agricultural producer. The creation of the organic fertilizer production plant provided employment opportunities for the local community and contributed to sustainable agricultural practices.
This business case demonstrates the importance of having a local presence and the need for close collaboration and sustained business development efforts. TRAIDE was able to connect two companies with complementary needs, and through collaboration and innovation, create a solution that benefits both parties. The access to financial resources provided by RVO was also critical in ensuring the success of the project.
In conclusion, the case of the Dutch poultry producer and the agricultural producer in Ethiopia highlights the importance of sustainable solutions to organic waste management and the need for collaboration in achieving such solutions. The success of this project provides a model for future initiatives aimed at addressing similar challenges faced by businesses and communities globally.
