Papero’s Path to Success: A Winning Story from Our Program’s Startups
Tomooh program, launched in 2017, promotes entrepreneurship and innovation in Egypt. With two successful phases supporting over 375 young Egyptians, the third phase provided a wide range of services to 100 aspiring entrepreneurs. Adopting an inclusive approach, Tomooh targets early-stage entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds and regions, addressing the unique challenges they face. From the 100 participants, 50 advanced to a hybrid pre-incubation program, receiving training, mentorship, and post-training support. Ten startups were then selected to showcase their ideas at the highly anticipated Demo Day, with a chance to win a seed fund. Tomooh empowers youth to contribute to the Egyptian economy through entrepreneurship and innovation.
The first-place winner of Tomooh Program for Entrepreneurship, Papero, has emerged as a shining success story in the startup world. With unwavering determination and a groundbreaking vision, Papero has revolutionized the manufacturing of environmentally recyclable paper bags in Egypt, earning them a well-deserved seed fund of 50,000 EGP. At the core of Papero’s mission is the steadfast commitment to deliver their innovative product to every Egyptian household. By creating awareness and fostering a positive concept around alternative, environmentally friendly products, Papero aims to replace the prevalent use of plastic bags in the Egyptian market.
Egypt faces numerous challenges stemming from pollution caused by plastic bags, rice straw burning, and the importation of kraft paper. Plastic bags, derived from non-renewable petroleum resources, take hundreds of years to decompose, exacerbating the pollution crisis. Rice straw burning further contributes to harmful pollutants in the air, while the importation of kraft paper disrupts the supply chain and compromises paper quality. Papero’s solution lies in their locally sourced rice straw paper bags, utilizing a renewable resource that would otherwise go to waste. These bags are not only recyclable and biodegradable, reducing waste and pollution, but also cost-effective due to their production from low-cost materials within the local market.
With a startup budget totaling $83,892, Papero forecasts impressive revenues of $69,499 in its inaugural year of operation. This remarkable achievement would translate into a net profit of $9,162 and a project payback period of just 1 year and 6 months. The return on investment (ROI) for potential investors stands at an impressive 11%. Papero’s success can be attributed to its exceptional team and their unwavering dedication to their mission. This promising startup possesses the potential to create a profound impact on both the environment and the Egyptian economy. By spearheading the transition from harmful plastic bags to their sustainable alternative, Papero is paving the way for a greener and more prosperous future for Egypt.
Through their participation in Tomooh Program for Entrepreneurship, Papero has not only secured the coveted first-place position but has also garnered the recognition and support necessary to propel their venture to new heights. The seed fund of 50,000 EGP will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for Papero’s expansion, allowing them to reach a wider audience and fulfill their ambitious goal of delivering their eco-friendly paper bags to every home in Egypt. Papero’s remarkable achievements in the face of environmental challenges and their commitment to sustainability make them a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. Their success story serves as a testament to the transformative power of innovative ideas and the unwavering dedication of a visionary team. With Papero leading the charge, Egypt is taking significant strides toward a greener, cleaner, and more prosperous future.