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Cornell University

Emerging Markets Program

Student Multidisciplinary Applied Research Teams (SMART) Program

South Africa Herbal View

Team Leaders

Ed Mabaya and Norbert Wilson 

Project Location: 

Cape Town, South Africa 

Type of organization:

Private company (small enterprise) 

Description of organization:

Herbal View Hydroponics is a food security community project that is currently producing Vegetables and Herbs. The business currently operates on a 2ha farm land at Donkerhoek Farm in Simonduim, cultivating in tunnels, Shade Nets and in the open fields? Recently, the business has started processing herbs and spices and is now making its  our own pesto. HVH is currently targeting markets in surrounding chain supply stores, but needs the right equipment to produce processing foods and spices. HVH seed to position itself as a nice market brand marketed in Stellenbosch, Paarl, Somerset West, Cape Town, Durbanville and Waterfront.  This requires new labelling and branding along with a marketing campaign  including exhibitions. The CEO and Founder Mr. Basil Williams seeks to expand the business through an aggressive marketing strategy for value added products such as chillies and pesto.   

 Definition of Task:

The CEO and Founder Mr. Basil Williams seeks to expand the business through an aggressive marketing strategy for value added products such as chillies and pesto.  Top achieve this, needs a well-structured business plan and marketing strategy that is informed by solid markets analysis and benchmarking of competitors.  The SMART project will also document a publishable case study of the company.   

 Skill Requirements :  

  • Good understanding of business and development frameworks 
  • Keen interest and/or knowledge in entrepreneurship and development  
  • Writing business plans and marketing plans 
  • Excellent analytical and writing skills (the case study will be published) 
  • Ability to write and analyze case studies 
  • Website development and social media engagement as part of marketing effort.  

Suggested Timeline and Logistics:  

7-17 January 2018.  The team will be staying in Stellenbosch.