In this episode of the Black Soldier Fly Leaders podcast, host David Tavernor interviews Andrew Wallace, co-founder of Chanzi, a pioneering company in the insect protein industry. Andrew shares his journey from various business roles in East Africa to discovering the potential of insect protein for animal feed. He discusses the unique model of Chanzi, which focuses on using waste for insect farming, the challenges of financing and scaling the business, and the importance of sustainability in waste management. The conversation also touches on the profitability of insect protein and the future of the industry, with Andrew offering valuable advice for aspiring leaders in the field.

Takeaways

Andrew Wallace's journey to insect protein began with his experience in various business roles in East Africa.

• Chanzi's model focuses on using waste as a primary input for insect farming.
• The company has achieved break-even status, making it a unique player in the insect protein industry.
• Sustainability and waste management are key components of Chanzi's business model.
• Andrew emphasizes the importance of adaptability in a nascent industry like insect protein.
• The partnership with AB InBev highlights the strategic approach to waste management and resource utilization.
• Chanzi's production costs are significantly lower than competitors, allowing for competitive pricing.
• The company aims to expand its operations across East Africa, leveraging its unique model.
• Andrew believes that the insect protein industry will continue to grow and evolve over the next few years.
• The conversation underscores the importance of understanding unit economics in the insect protein business.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Chanzi and Andrew Wallace

06:54 Andrew's Journey to Insect Protein

13:52 The Partnership with Sune and Business Model

20:49 Scaling and Financing the Business

24:41 Waste Management and Sustainability Solutions

28:41 Integrating Waste Management Solutions

30:21 The Waste Problem in Africa

30:43 Anaerobic Digestion vs. Insect Protein

37:30 Insect Protein Production and Byproducts

41:36 Profitability in Insect Farming

44:55 Challenges in the Insect Protein Industry

49:05 Open Collaboration in Waste Management

52:52 Global Perspectives on Insect Protein

54:42 Advice for Future Leaders in the Industry

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