conrad challenge 2024
A Solution to Food Security in Vietnam
Our solution involves implementing vending machines stocked with non-perishable food items, offering 24/7 accessibility through an RFID card system.
the problem
While Vietnam’s economic progress has brought the poverty rate down, 4.9 million people still live in poverty and face household food insecurity (FI) marked by undernourishment. The problem is exacerbated in ethnic rural areas with FI estimates of over 40%.
THE SOLUTION
Vending machines (VMs) stocked with non-perishable food for distribution
We propose vending machines (VMs) stocked with non-perishable food for distribution to the poor. VMs offer wider reach as they can be placed at any location with electricity and access would be available 24/7. They would be cost-efficient to operate.
Long-lasting food
Wider reach and distribution
Cost-efficient
24/7 availability
Feature #1
RFID CARD SYSTEM
FEATURE #2
15" TOUCH SCREEN DISPLAY
FEATURE #3
NON-PERISHABLE FOOD ITEMS
BUSINESS MODEL
A quick overview of the concepts behind ECOBITE
Key Metrics
Our success would be measured by the number of vending machines developed under our venture, the volume of food that we distribute, the total number of food partners, and amount of people that we have helped through our non-profit.
Unique Value Proposition
To ensure equal food distribution and proper accounting, our smart VMs would be accessible via a QR code. Recipients would apply to our charity to receive a code weekly. The VMs would remotely notify the charity when restocking is needed.
Sustainable Advantage
Compared to food banks, VMs reduce energy consumption and lower operating costs. They would also lower waste as each VM would proportion the distribution. By stocking non-perishables like rice, noodles, cooking oil, canned food, etc. there would be no spoilage.
Cost Structure
We expect VM manufacturing to be our highest cost. We must also pay for electricity, maintenance, storage, and restocking. We hope to offset the energy and storage costs by working with the government and getting volunteers to restock the VMs.
the team
We are a passionate group of high school students from Vietnam
Evie Diep
Project manager
An Hoang
Graphic Designer
Trung Nhan Do
Programmer
Binh Minh Pham
Editor / Designer
Tom Nguyen
Researcher