Aquinput is an operations consulting company that seeks to provide shrimp farmers in Bangladesh with better inputs, standardization services, and market access to improve their income and cope with climate change.
Who or what was your best resource for starting your company?
I conducted fieldwork on the effect of climate change on rural economies in Asia for a research institute in 2015. I visited the coastal regions of Bangladesh and observed interesting transitions in livelihood patterns. I spoke with various experts and farmer clubs – all of them helped shape my views on the problem.
Participating in the NH Social Venture Innovation Challenge also led me to discuss my idea with Ian Grant of the E-Center at UNH, who helped me understand the solution better. My faculty adviser Dr. Curt Grimm was also a helpful sounding board.
What was your biggest obstacle in starting your company and how did you overcome it?
My biggest obstacle is that the sector I want to work in is riddled with complex regulatory challenges and vested interests. While my concept for the business has been found to be sound, its implementation will be difficult without concerted effort. I cannot say with conviction that I have overcome these obstacles completely.
What’s the best advice you have received?
I have heard a number of great thinkers emphasize the importance of pursuing excellence through self-discipline rather than specific goals. I have also been advised to learn about the transience of everything in life and that has given me a good temperament and ability to work under pressure.
What about the NH lifestyle appeals to you?
NH is a beautiful place with fun-loving people. I find the culture of outdoor adventures, live music concerts and sports very appealing.
What does the future look like for your company?
Winning the NH Social Venture Innovation Challenge was special because it tells me I’m able to effectively communicate complex ideas to diverse audiences. In the future, I want to use this as a core skill to work in the sustainable investing, policy advocacy, or international development fields.