Ofrieda (Futterzeit GmbH)

Ofrieda helps you to feed your dog without a guilty conscience. The start-up completely relies on alternative protein sources and offers vegetarian dog food and insect-based dog food.

Felix, what are the advantages of a start-up?
You have the chance to implement your own ideas and develop products that can really make a difference. The start-up process is an exciting journey where you not only grow professionally, but also personally. You also get to know an inspiring community that supports and motivates you. The work is anything but boring. You can constantly take on new challenges and build up your financial independence in the process. It's simply an exciting adventure that's worth embarking on!

What were the main hurdles in the start-up process?
As I have an economic background, it was crucial to learn about dog nutrition and find experts who could help me with their knowledge when developing the first recipes. The start-up also required a lot of perseverance.

Do you have any tips for you fellow founders?
Conduct a thorough market analysis to understand your target audience and ensure that there is a real need for your product or service. Actively seek feedback and share your ideas with others. Sometimes external opinions are more honest than those of friends and family. Remember that founding is not a race, it's a marathon. Stay patient and hang in there, even when the road gets tough. Don't forget to take care of yourself and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Starting a business can be stressful, so it's important to take regular breaks and find a balance.

Awards:

• Andersgründer Stipendium
• Gründerstipendium NRW