Elevating the standard of farming in the Caribbean

3D Aquaponic Solutions aims to establish a sustainable agricultural model that integrates aquaponics, recirculating aquaculture, and permaculture practices on a 2-acre property. 

Kristy Naidoo-Kurban is the Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, and Dillon Kurban is the Co-founder and serves as our Chief Technical Officer. 

The annual food import bill is USD $ 5 billon per annum. This is a significant market to reduce and increase food security.

We require USD$ 1 million to construct from the ground up. The land is owned by 3D Aquaponic Solutions. 

We are targeting to breakeven by our first year, and a 15% profit by our third year. One of our goals is to open a second farm, either in country or another Caribbean country by our fifth year. 

Aquaculture in Trinidad & Tobago experienced a boom from 2011 to 2014, with an average production of 50 metric tonnes. However, the absence of subsidies, grants, and assistance has resulted in many aquaculture farmers shuttering their operations, leading to an annual production average of only 5 tonnes. With aquaculture already accounting for 51% of global consumption and projected to increase to 57% by 2030, this project emerges at a pivotal moment and in an ideal location to catalyze lasting transformation and revitalize the aquaculture industry across the Caribbean.

Established in 2016, 3D Aquaponic Solutions is a trailblazing sustainable farming company specializing in Aquaponics. Our expertise spans indoor, outdoor, residential, and commercial aquaponic systems, driven by over 12 years of dedicated research and development.

At the forefront of innovation, we have revolutionized aquaponics, engineering systems that demand minimal time, labour, and maintenance while maximizing efficiency and yield. Now poised for expansion, our focus is on revolutionizing sustainable farming across Trinidad & Tobago and throughout the Caribbean. This ambitious project entails the transformation of 2 acres of farmland into a sustainable aquaponic and permaculture farm.
Key features include the creation of a 1.75-acre lined pond with water raceways and hydro generators, meticulously designed to optimize fish production and facilitate the growth of aquaponic produce.

With a multifaceted income model, this farm will generate revenue streams from fish, organic produce, and serve as a comprehensive training facility, embodying our commitment to sustainability and community empowerment.

In a market dominated by imported goods and produce from countries such as the United States, Costa Rica, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and Colombia, our primary objective is to disrupt the status quo by offering a locally sourced alternative. By harnessing the potential of our sustainable farming

system, we aim to cultivate food security and bolster the export of agricultural produce, bridging the gap between demand and domestic supply.

Within just one year of operation, our innovative system is projected to yield an impressive 149 tons of produce and 66 tons of fish. Leveraging this output, we aspire to significantly contribute to Trinidad & Tobago's GDP for agricultural produce, targeting an increase from the current 2.4% to a
remarkable 6% within the first two years of operation. Through strategic innovation and a commitment to self-sufficiency, we aim to redefine the agricultural landscape, fostering economic growth and resilience for the nation.

In Trinidad & Tobago, organic produce commands a staggering 600% premium over locally grown inorganic options, making it largely inaccessible to those with limited disposable income. Our farm endeavors to democratize access to organic goods by offering them at a price point just 150-200% above inorganic produce, ensuring affordability for a broader segment of the population with smaller disposable incomes. By making quality organic produce more attainable, we aim to foster a healthier and more equitable food landscape for all. 

Kristy Naidoo-Kurban has been instrumental from the on-set of the company. Her Business

Analytics, Management Information Systems & Big Data knowledge has
aided in growing the business locally and regionally. She has over 15 years
experience in the Financial Sector, which lends to the transparency she
brings to 3D Aquaponics.

Dillon Kurban’s vast array of knowledge in agriculture and aquaculture lends itself
perfectly to the company. His Instrumentation and Electrical Engineering experience only amplifies the type of products produced by the company. Dillon has many certificates locally and internationally in aquaponics
and aquaculture.

Our company has worked with schools to introduce sustainable farming in theory and practical with working systems. We have worked with several NGOs as well as FAO within the Caribbean. Kristy Naidoo-Kurban is on the Executive Board of the Caribbean Aquaproducers Association, which is a group of cross-Caribbean farmers in aquaculture, hydroponics and aquaponics aiming to create tradelines for materials and produce at affordable prices. We are setting meetings with governments.

Dillon has been on several international trainings in aquaponics and aquaculture.

This concept has been an idea for over 12 years. Throughout the years, we have been gathering knowledge, through our business, experience, research and development, and various trainings.

We have gone through several versions of this system for many years. This is the most effective and efficient system that we will create.

This farm will focus on B2B transactions, our primary target market includes
wholesalers, distributors, and retailers seeking locally sourced, sustainably grown produce and fish. We will also target restaurants, hotels, and catering services looking for high-quality, fresh ingredients to meet the demands of their customers.

The B2C focus will have customers visiting the farm and the sustainable
market/restaurant. With further expansion, we will tap into the export market and increase GDP income. 

We have created 40-50 indoor, outdoor, commercial aquaponic systems for apartments, homes, schools and businesses.

The clients with the systems have seen 70-80% decrease in purchase of produce and have a steady supply of fish free of chemicals, pollution and hormones.

The Agricultural sector in Trinidad & Tobago is severely underdeveloped. The focus of the country historically turned to oil and gas. This saw very little money going to the agricultural sector. Which means, little subsidies, small grants and very little protective measures for farmlands which are constantly pilfered. This is leading a large amount of farming experts to go into early retirement. This has caused us to seek outside financing and expertise to show the innovations of farming and showcase the prosperity of farming.

Technological and quality materials are expensive and very hard to come by for agriculture. Kristy Naidoo-Kurban is on the Executive Board of a new NGO for cross-Caribbean Aquaproducer farmers which are setting meetings with the Caribbean government members to create trade lines throughout the Caribbean for affordable transactions for the purchase of technology and materials.

Trinidad & Tobago has numerous farmlands which are state lands, the farmers who farm these lands are bound by numerous rules which states what they can farm, what type of structure can be constructed. These laws have not been changed in over 70+ years, which limits innovation and improvement.

Culturally farmers are considered the uneducated field, the conception is beginning to change, very slowly. Farmers receive 20% of final sale as their income. We are working to change that to reduce the middle men so that farmers can reap at least 80% of the final selling price.

 With more entrepreneurs getting into farming, workshops have begun to guide them into getting their produce into markets and groceries. However there is a limited market available, which chooses the best produce, as such more chemicals are used.

Product Overview

With 90% of locally consumed organic food being imported, this farm addresses a critical gap in the market by offering farm-to-table freshness that eliminates the need for lengthy import times, which can range from 1 to 3 months. By ensuring a consistent and timely supply, our farm aims to mitigate price fluctuations caused by supply shortages and delays. As the pioneering initiative of its kind in Trinidad & Tobago and the wider Caribbean, our farm not only provides essential sustenance but also serves as a beacon for ecotourism and a premier training facility for sustainable farming practices.

Price Strategy
In Trinidad & Tobago, organic produce commands a staggering 600% premium over locally grown inorganic options, making it largely inaccessible to those with limited disposable income. Our farm endeavors to democratize access to organic goods by offering them at a price point just 150-200% above
inorganic produce, ensuring affordability for a broader segment of the population with smaller disposable incomes. By making quality organic produce more attainable, we aim to foster a healthier and more
equitable food landscape for all.

Promotion Strategy
Building upon our existing social media presence across platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube, 3D Aquaponic Solutions will augment our outreach efforts by hiring dedicated personnel to invigorate our social media engagement and enhance SEO optimization. Through compelling content and strategic dissemination, we aim to not only amplify our brand's visibility but also inspire and support other farmers in transitioning to sustainable farming practices. By leveraging our digital platforms effectively, we aspire to catalyze a broader movement towards ecological stewardship within the farming community.

Place Strategy
Utilizing our 2-acre farmland as the cornerstone of our operations, 3D Aquaponic Solutions will establish a physical presence through the opening of a grocery store and restaurant, offering our farm-to-table fresh
produce directly to local consumers. Additionally, for our B2B clientele, we will leverage existing trade routes with refrigerated truck systems to ensure efficient and timely delivery of our products. Furthermore, to expand our reach and accessibility, we will develop an online platform where customers
can conveniently purchase our goods, thereby catering to the growing demand for online marketplaces. By strategically integrating physical stores, online channels, and B2B distribution, we aim to maximize our
market penetration and serve diverse customer segments effectively. 

This bounty is crafted with care and precision, tailored to cater to health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers, as well as esteemed establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and groceries. 

Brand Development: Crafting an identity centered on sustainability, freshness, and innovation.

Website & Social Media: Developing a user-friendly website showcasing the farm, products, and commitment to sustainable practices. Utilize social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to share farm updates, educational content about aquaponics, and mouth-watering recipes featuring produce and fish.

Public Relations & Media Outreach: Highlighting our unique farm and its environmental benefits through press releases and local stories.

Community Engagement: Host farm tours and educational workshops to connect with the community, raise awareness about aquaponics, and build trust with potential customers. Partner with local schools to
educate students about sustainable food production.

Promotional Events: Participate in farmers markets, food festivals, and culinary events to showcase our products and connect directly with consumers.

Increase Customer Retention: Implementing client-focused strategies will not only expand our customer base but also increase customer retention. By understanding and addressing the needs and preferences of our clients, we aim to build lasting relationships that foster loyalty and repeat business.

Increase Profit by 20%: To achieve a 20% increase in profit, we will focus on growing our business through enhanced production and efficiency. Utilizing companion planting techniques and other innovative methods, we will optimize resource utilization and minimize costs, thereby boosting profitability.

Become a Top Player in the Country: Our vision is to emerge as a top player in the country by establishing our innovative farm as a hub of knowledge and training. Through ongoing research and development, along with comprehensive training programs, we will not only lead the way in sustainable farming practices but also inspire and educate others in the
industry.

Expand the Business: Our growth strategy includes expanding to a second farm, allowing us to capitalize on opportunities in new markets and diversify our operations. By replicating our successful model and leveraging economies of scale, we will further strengthen our position in the industry.
By aligning our goals with strategic initiatives focused on customer satisfaction, profitability, expansion, and industry leadership, we are poised to achieve sustainable growth and success in the market.

This farm symbolizes the culmination of over a decade of unwavering dedication and visionary ambition. Prior to the establishment of 3D Aquaponic Solutions, our founders, Kristy Naidoo-Kurban & Dillon Kurban, harbored aspirations of pioneering large-scale sustainable commercial farms. Through relentless research and development efforts, coupled with immersive training programs spanning diverse countries, we have meticulously honed our approach to encapsulate the depth of knowledge and experience accumulated along the journey.

Our mission transcends mere sustainability; it aims to ignite a transformative
revolution in the agricultural sector, positioning the Caribbean as a formidable global force in both the quality and quantity of produce for both local consumption and international exportation. Join us as we lead the charge in this agricultural renaissance, placing paramount emphasis on water conservation, organic farming methodologies, and the delivery of exquisitely flavorful fish and produce to communities near and far.

In summary, 3D Aquaponic Solutions is poised for significant growth and impact. Our strategic initiatives include client-focused strategies to enhance customer retention and expand our customer base, alongside plans to increase profitability by 20% through enhanced production and efficiency. We're committed to expanding our operations with the establishment of a second farm, solidifying our position as a top player in the country. Through our innovative approach, we aim to become a hub of knowledge and training, revolutionizing the agricultural industry and elevating the Caribbean's standing as a global competitor in sustainable farming practices. Join us in shaping a future where sustainability, innovation, and excellence converge to create a thriving agricultural sector.

Currently there are 2 full time staff and 3 part time staff for the company.

Our farm will employ a team of 16 full-time workers, inclusive of both local
individuals and immigrants, embodying our commitment to diversity and inclusivity. While educational background is not a prerequisite, we prioritize hard work and a willingness to learn, fostering an environment where every individual's input is valued.

We have been working on this solution for over 12 years, we have gone through several versions. Over the years of learning, research and development, training and experience has led us to this final version which will be profitable, efficient and innovative.

Our farm will employ a team of 16 full-time workers, inclusive of both local
individuals and immigrants, embodying our commitment to diversity and inclusivity. While educational background is not a prerequisite, we prioritize hard work and a willingness to learn, fostering an environment where every individual's input is valued.

Embracing the belief that innovative ideas can originate from anyone, regardless of their role or level, we maintain an open-door policy to encourage staff to share their suggestions and recommendations. Our farm will serve as a dynamic on-the-job training facility, collaborating with national institutions, schools, and universities to provide hands-on learning experiences.

We extend a warm invitation to local NGOs, Caribbean, and international students to participate in our educational initiatives. With a vision to expand this farming concept regionally and internationally, we are dedicated to cultivating a skilled and diverse workforce equipped to drive sustainable agriculture forward on a global scale