Highschool Winner in the 2024 National Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge
Vali Melien, a homeschooled highschool student and Mensa member, has introduced an extraordinary concept that combines the beloved ritual of coffee drinking with significant health benefits. Her business, Oh Coffee, aims to provide a nutritious and functional coffee experience that enhances health and well-being.
The Mission Oh Coffee's mission is to make premium, nutrient-rich coffee accessible to everyone while promoting sustainability and ethical sourcing. Vali's research revealed that many North Americans are not meeting their daily recommended intake of fruits and vegetables. By infusing coffee with superfoods, adaptogens, and probiotics, Oh Coffee offers a convenient way to bridge this nutritional gap.
The Product Oh Coffee is made from premium Arabica coffee beans and infused with a blend of 22 whole plant vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and adaptogens derived from mushrooms. Each 16-ounce cup provides the nutritional equivalent of five servings of fruits and vegetables. The beans are sourced from sustainable, women-run farms, ensuring both environmental and social benefits.
Market Research and Target Audience Vali identified a significant market opportunity: 73% of North Americans drink coffee daily, amounting to 200 million adults. Her target audience includes millennials, young professionals, and coffee enthusiasts who are health-conscious and seek convenient, nutritious options. Vali's market research indicates a growing demand for functional beverages, positioning Oh Coffee to capitalize on this trend.
Pricing and Financials Oh Coffee offers two main products: standard beans at $24.95 per 450 grams (45 cents per serving) and specialty functional coffee at $39.95 per 450 grams (73 cents per serving). Vali's detailed financial projections include a monthly revenue of $50,000, with a net profit of $14,000, reflecting a profit margin of 28%.
Marketing Strategy Vali’s comprehensive marketing strategy includes digital marketing, social media influencer collaborations, content marketing through blogs and YouTube, and traditional marketing methods like local print media and community engagement. She also plans to hold tasting events and workshops to promote her brand and educate consumers about the health benefits of Oh Coffee.
Judge Feedback Avi Zur expressed his enthusiasm for Vali's idea, "I love coffee, and your idea of combining it with health benefits is brilliant." Nika Sanguellini remarked, "Your presentation was very detailed, and the product is something I would definitely buy." Jennifer Donovan added, "Your design concept is engaging and well-thought-out. Great job on the overall presentation."
Conclusion Vali Melien’s Oh Coffee is a revolutionary concept that transforms a daily habit into a health-boosting ritual. By combining the rich flavors of premium coffee with the nutritional benefits of superfoods, Vali offers a unique product that meets the needs of health-conscious consumers. With her well-rounded business plan and strong commitment to sustainability, Vali is set to make a significant impact in the coffee industry.