04 Sep 2024
, Morocco
Sustainable Food and Agriculture

Abdelilah Hammada, the visionary behind ALGUNO, embarked on a journey fueled by a passion for entrepreneurship and a deep-rooted connection to his hometown, Nador. Inspired by the abundant seaweed resource in the Marchica lagoon, Abdelilah saw an opportunity to create a sustainable solution for agricultural development.

ALGUNO’s innovative biostimulant fertilizer, derived from marine algae, offers a much-needed alternative to harmful chemical fertilizers. By addressing soil degradation and water pollution, ALGUNO is contributing to a more sustainable and resilient agricultural ecosystem, starting in Morocco.

This innovation is supported by some recent serious scientific studies, attesting that substances extracted from algae, such as polysaccharides, stimulate plant growth and protects them against diseases.

The road to success wasn’t without its challenges. From securing land for algae cultivation to navigating bureaucratic hurdles, Abdelilah and his team faced numerous obstacles. However, their unwavering determination and belief in their solution propelled them forward.

Achievements

Despite initial skepticism, ALGUNO’s achievements have gained recognition and support. The startup has secured intellectual property, obtained government approvals from the National Agency for Aquaculture Development (ANDA) to operate a 16-hectare aquaculture farm in the Marchica lagoon.

Besides the prize for Best Patentable Project in the Gold Patent competition organized by Valbiom Maroc Cluster in May 2023, they clinched other prestigious awards for its contributions to sustainability such as the Switchmed Prize 2023-2024 and being a finalist in the Seed program for green entrepreneurship.

"Our mission at ALGUNO is to create a sustainable future for agriculture. By providing farmers with a natural and effective alternative to chemical fertilizers, we are helping to protect our environment and ensure food security for generations to come.” said Abdelilah Hammada, the CEO and founder.
Revolutionizing Agriculture: ALGUNO’s Innovative Fertilizer | The Switchers

Abdelilah’s vision for the future extends beyond ALGUNO’s success. He aims to establish a sustainable development circle between agriculture and aquaculture, preserving underwater biodiversity. ALGUNO’s work is a testament to the potential of the blue economy and its contribution to a more sustainable world.

The ALGUNO Team

ALGUNO’s success is a testament to the dedication and expertise of its passionate and talented team of co-founders and experts:

  • Mohamed Talha as the Chief Operations Officer (COO),
  • Zakariae Benali is responsible for project management and operations,
  • Khadija Sbahou is in charge of ALGUNO’s product development and sustainable farming practices.
  • Soukaina Alazzouzi is ensuring the quality and safety of ALGUNO’s products.
  • Aya Elmeziani as an agronomist engineer,
  • And Maha Boughardaien playing a vital role in promoting ALGUNO’s brand and reaching out to potential customers.
Revolutionizing Agriculture: ALGUNO’s Innovative Fertilizer | The Switchers

Impact on Farmers

ALGUNO’s biostimulant fertilizer has had a significant impact on farmers across Morocco. Many have reported increased crop yields, improved soil health, and reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers.

One such farmer, Mohamed El Idrissi, shared his experience with ALGUNO’s products:

"ALGUNO has been a game-changer for my farm. Their fertilizer has not only improved my crop yields but has also helped me reduce my reliance on harmful chemicals. I'm grateful for the opportunity to be part of ALGUNO's success story."
Revolutionizing Agriculture: ALGUNO’s Innovative Fertilizer | The Switchers

Future Plans

ALGUNO’s ambitious plans for the future include expanding its operations to other regions in Morocco and beyond. The company is also exploring new product lines and partnerships to further its impact on sustainable agriculture.

Abdelilah Hammada expressed his vision for the future: “We want ALGUNO to be a global leader in sustainable agriculture. Our goal is to help farmers around the world produce healthy, high-quality crops while minimizing their environmental impact”

ALGUNO’s story is a testament to the power of innovation in driving the sector of blue and green economy forward simultaneously and the importance of harnessing marine resources responsibly. Indeed, it has the potential to revolutionize the agricultural industry and drive positive change on a global scale.

For aspiring green entrepreneurs, Abdelilah offers a valuable piece of advice: “Surround yourself with a competent team and be prepared to face challenges head-on. The opportunities in the blue economy are vast, and with the right mindset and dedication, you can make a significant impact.”

For more information about Alguno, you can visit their website, facebook, IG or LinkedIn

Alguno