Eco-farm La Bonne Semence winner of entrepreneurial competition Benin

On June 2 and 3, 2026, IUCN NL, in collaboration with ECO-BENIN and others, organized a competition between four eco-startups from the Mono Reserve in Benin.

The Concours des Entrepreneurs consisted of four participants who competed for two days for a grand prize of CFA 1,500,000 – approximately €2,300 – to support the further growth of their sustainable enterprises.

BioRiche

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Hyacinthe Boco started BioRiche, a company that transforms washed-up seaweed into biological pesticide.

CC Miel

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Paulin Zabo, Chair of the Supervisory Board, introduces CC Miel, a cooperative of beekeepers.

Het Concours des Entrepreneurs

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On day one, the entrepreneurs received training on completing a business canvas to map out and refine their business operations. On day two, the pitches took place before a five-member jury of experts, national and regional press, and an audience present, including three local mayors.

Karin Agbadja from La Bonne Semence, the youngest participant and the only woman, is initially very nervous and walks off the stage during the practice. She spends the rest of the evening and part of the night practicing her pitch. The next day, in front of the entire audience and a very proud father, she finally manages to secure first prize.

IUCN NL project in Benin

The Councours de Entrepreneurs is organized as part of the long-term project AGeReB: Sustainable management and financing of the Mono Biosphere Reserve in Benin.

For more information about this project and all activities, please visit our project page.