5 EMMIE business projects to look out for next year

The EMMIE program is not just a regular Master program, but a place where ground-breaking ideas are born, tested and either shelved for later, or go into another level. While EMMIE aspirants are preparing to pitch their pilot ideas, it is time to take a look at the what innovative ideas are on the works and getting more fleshed out with each day.

Here are 5 projects being developed by our very own EMMIE entrepreneurs to look out for in the next year. Whether you are looking to invest in an impactful venture, to collaborate, to support or to find inspiration, these ideas will be a great start. 

AGREEE ASIA believes that Coconut farmers deserve to enjoy the same opportunities and benefits other working professionals have – nutritious food on the table, good education for their kids, and decent living conditions for their families. Additionally, farmer households should be able access healthcare and social services to help their kids achieve their dreams for a better life.

As an agri-business, we dedicate this project to empower farmers by maximizing the land in a way that respects nature, provide sustainable work environment for farmers, and champion ethical production of Coconut products for our clients.

The business requires at least EUR 300.000,00 in funding for a five-year development plan including working capital and capital investments.

Kua Nasi, is an accessories brand focused on women’s empowerment. In collaboration with 55 talented female artisans, Kua Nasi creates unique, limited-edition pieces that reflect grace and individuality. We help turn their skills into exquisite handmade beaded jewelry or sisal bags that we sell for premium prices. This way, we achieve our goal of creating decent and dignified jobs for women from low socioeconomic backgrounds regardless of their level of education. 

Our current challenges include accessing the market and raising start-up financing for these women. This latter challenge has had us overly stretching the times between sourcing for material used for the jewelry or bags to production and to market introduction, lag times that are not ideal for the fast-paced industry we are trying to get into. We are currently looking for businesses that would be willing to resell our jewelry and bags as well as impact financiers. 

Pivot Upstart is a climate finance readiness software designed to empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in emerging markets. By providing tools for assessing carbon footprints, tracking social inclusivity, and evaluating financial readiness, Pivot Upstart helps SMEs opportunities. The software combined with consulting and capacity building services offers a structured approach to sustainability, making it accessible for businesses to measure, report, and enhance their environmental and social practices, ultimately positioning them as eligible candidates for climate-related funding.

Reviv Community partners with informal Thai home-based workers and Vietnamese Mhong refugee workers in Thailand to create products from textile waste, deadstock fabric, and low impact materials. We train workers with limited skills to produce sustainable, high-quality products. By promoting fair wages and transparency, we empower marginalized workers who often face exploitation, inadequate pay, and limited opportunities for skill development.

Currently, we’re focusing on building partnerships with shops to showcase our products and brands and explore collaboration opportunities. Additionally, we’re seeking grants to help drive our mission forward.

In a world where hidden hunger—micronutrient deficiencies often masked by normal diets—affects billions, SuppLifyLab is breaking new ground as a tech-driven platform that delivers accessible, accurate, and personalized nutrient assessments. The platform leverages a comprehensive, data-driven questionnaire designed with advanced algorithms that pinpoint deficiencies down to specific micronutrients, with customized supplement recommendations, including detailed guidance on brands and dosages. 

SuppLifyLab’s impact extends beyond individual users; it’s a tool for public health. For healthcare professionals, SuppLifyLab provides data-supported recommendations that can seamlessly integrate into their practice. With partnerships spanning wellness communities, NGOs, and local clinics, SuppLifyLab is positioned not just as a tool for personal health but as a scalable solution for global health initiatives. The platform’s impact potential makes it an ideal opportunity for investors looking to make a meaningful difference in the realm of preventative health.

There you have it, 5 different start-ups, each representing a unique approach to helping solve complex, global challenges. Whether it’s providing personalized health solutions, uplifting farmers, empowering artisans, or promoting sustainable craftsmanship, these companies are paving the way for a more inclusive and healthy future. For investors and partners alike, now is the time to support these groundbreaking initiatives and be part of the work for a positive change.

Artisanal bag, from Kua Nasi

Written by: Erta Dunga