Business Plan for Corn-Based Products Company 

Agricultural Landscape in Haiti

Haiti’s location in the Caribbean provides moderate temperatures allowing continuous agricultural production throughout the year. Despite recent declines in overall production, corn remains the dominant crop in Haiti, with significantly higher production levels than rice and sorghum. For the marketing year (MY) 2023/24, corn production in Haiti is estimated at 305,000 metric tons (MT). While this is a 2% decline from the previous year and a 5% decline from the 5-year average, corn still vastly outproduces rice (55,000 MT) and sorghum (60,000 MT), (Shannon, 2024). 

Corn as a Staple Food

In Haiti, corn is primarily consumed in the form of cornmeal, sweet corn, corn flour, and akasan (a popular Haitian beverage). Cornmeal, particularly in fine and medium sizes, is a daily dietary staple, often substituting for rice or bulgur wheat. Grilled sweet corn has also become a popular street food over the last decade.

The company's focus will be on those three products:

1. Cereal Bars with Added Nutrients:

   • Description: Nutritious cereal bars made from corn, fortified with vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients.

   • Market: Health-conscious consumers, children, and individuals looking for convenient, nutritious snacks.

2. Nutrient-Enriched Shakes:

   • Description: Delicious shakes made from corn derivatives, enriched with proteins, vitamins, and minerals for a balanced diet.

   • Market: Athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and those seeking a healthy meal replacement option.

3. Corn Chips:

   • Description: Crunchy and flavorful corn chips, available in various flavors and fortified with additional nutrients.

   • Market: Snack enthusiasts, retail stores, and supermarkets.

Additionally, the company will produce and sell other corn-based products, including cornmeal, corn flour, corn oil, ethanol, animal feed, and alcoholic beverages, to diversify its product range and cater to a broader market.

Location and Facilities

The company will be strategically located in regions with high corn production to minimize transportation costs and ensure a steady supply of raw materials. Our facilities will include modern processing plants equipped for milling, blending, cooking, and packaging. 

Raw Material Sourcing 

We will partner with local corn farmers to secure a reliable supply chain, providing them with support and training to improve crop yields and quality. By implementing sustainable farming practices, we aim to ensure long-term productivity and environmental conservation. 

Processing and Quality Control 

We will use advanced technology to produce high-quality cereal bars, shakes, and corn chips while implementing stringent quality control measures at every stage of production to maintain the highest product standards.

Target Market

We will focus on the Haitian market, where there is a growing demand for nutritious, convenient, and locally-produced food products, and establish partnerships with supermarkets, grocery stores, and specialty health food stores to reach both domestic consumers and retailers.

Marketing Tactics

We will develop a strong brand identity that emphasizes quality, local production, and nutritional benefits. Our promotions will utilize local media, social media, and community events to highlight the nutritional benefits and local sourcing of our ingredients.

Sales strategies

We will sell directly to consumers through company-owned stores and online platforms, supply products wholesale to supermarkets, grocery stores, health food stores, and convenience stores, and collaborate with local restaurants, cafes, and bars to incorporate our products into their offerings.

The financial projections for this business will be developed over the coming years. This will include a detailed analysis of startup costs, revenue projections, profit margins, and a comprehensive financial plan to ensure the long-term viability and profitability of the company.

By capitalizing on Haiti's climate and the high demand for innovative, nutritious corn-based products, this company aims to become a leading provider of cereal bars with added nutrients, nutrient-enriched shakes, and corn chips. Despite recent declines in production, corn remains the dominant crop in Haiti, offering a solid foundation for this business venture. With a focus on quality, sustainability, and community engagement, the company is poised for success in the growing market for corn-based foods. Additionally, the company will diversify its product range by producing and selling other corn-based products, including cornmeal, corn flour, corn oil, ethanol, animal feed, and alcoholic beverages, to cater to a broader market.