Funding Proposal
Updated August, 12th, 2024
Overview
Turabizo Studios is a vibrant community space based in Musanze, Rwanda.
It is a collection of six studios, including:
Film
Food
Fitness
Youth mentorship
Art
Lodging
Background
While Turabizo was officially founded in February 2023, our story and operations began in April 2021.
Establishing a company was a natural progression following our intuitive response to the needs and aspirations of the community.
Mission & Vision
It is our mission to:
Be a place where people from diverse backgrounds can come together and collaborate
Provide new educational, employment, and experiential opportunities
Support personal growth, strengthen community ties, and cultivate cultural & knowledge exchanges
Our vision is to:
Be a cornerstone in the community (we want anyone in the community to feel that we are an available resource to them)
Drive regional development, bridging the gap between tourism and local economies
Lead innovative programs that inspire global engagement and positive change
Leadership
All aspects of the company are led and managed by Founder, Eric Buron, and our core team, including Co-founder and Managing Director, Virginie Mukankuranga, and Chief Operating Officer, Eliab Nduwayo.
Request
We are seeking funding to accelerate our development, expand our reach, and achieve self-sufficiency and sustainability.
$290,618.81 USD will support daily operations for three years, repay startup debt, fund a film project, and acquire property and additional assets.
PROJECT
BREAKDOWNS
Ona | Film Studio
Challenge
Collectively, Rwanda has transformed over the past 30 years and deserves recognition for their progress and successful peace-making and reconciliation efforts.
However, general, international perception of Rwanda is stuck in the past, focused on the 1994 genocide, and Rwanda’s nascent film industry lacks global exposure.
Action & Solution
Inspired by modern-day Rwanda, we are developing our first film about a teenager finding his voice.
Through the process, we have the opportunity to employ hundreds of people, significantly contribute to the local economy, celebrate with the people of Rwanda, and share a slice of daily life with the world.
One of the kids in our mentorship program often reminds us to, “Enjoy your life.” That’s exactly the impact we want this film to have worldwide: joy.
Activities
Drafting and editing the script, conducting table reads, and gathering feedback
Drafting a lookbook and story sketch
Assessing cast and crew hires and beginning collaborations
Compiling test shoots from captured iPhone footage
Hosting Intore “warrior” training (a mix of Rwandan history, calisthenics, and traditional dance)
Location scouting
Evaluations
The film project has been on hold until we establish a secure foundation for the company. Once the foundation is set and we secure bridge funding, we can advance the project rapidly. We’ve drafted a roadmap with the necessary steps to achieve a finished product.
As we restart, we will gauge our progress and effectiveness based on our objectives and timelines. Major objectives include copywriting the script, receiving authorization from the government, hiring the full cast and crew, securing permits for locations and equipment, and finalizing our production schedule.
KuZiko | Food Studio
Challenge
Musanze is growing into a global business and tourism hub and boasts a rich food heritage.
However, the dining scene in Musanze is dominated by three establishments that offer similar dishes and inaccessible pricing for local residents.
Action & Solution
We have launched an experimental kitchen, dedicated to the art and science of good eating.
With our kitchen, we have the opportunity to showcase Rwanda’s local agriculture, food practices, and culinary traditions, while also introducing new, global flavors and expanding the city’s culinary options.
Targeting locals and travelers, our Double Korean Cheeseburger has been described as, “the best burger in Rwanda,” and our Japanese Vegetable Yakisoba has been described as, “the best meal in Rwanda.”
Activities
Reviewing, budgeting, and testing new recipes
Preparing 2-3 meals every day, five days a week, for over 20 people (team and youth)
Preparing all guest orders from our menu, for takeout or dine-in at our lounge
Evaluations
Our current benchmark to hit for food service is an average of 23 guests per day, 7 days a week, with an average cost of $6.25 per order. Although we have some distance to go to reach this goal, it is attainable. Achieving this benchmark would indicate that we have become a favored dining option in Rwanda and are on track toward self-sufficiency.
We are collecting valuable feedback from our customers and making adjustments and improvements as we learn.
Komera | Fitness Studio
Challenge
In Rwanda, healthy living is built into daily life, with walking, sports, physical labor, and healthy eating. Musanze also recently opened a downtown fitness center with basketball courts and a handball court.
However, professional fitness training, a range of athletic games, quality facilities, equipment, and modern health education still remain unavailable to a large portion of the population.
Action & Solution
Our fitness program expands access to comprehensive health and wellness.
We have the opportunity to support continued health as a conscious choice, integrate fitness with Rwanda’s cultural heritage, and build community around physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
We have access to expert trainers in kinesiology, sports science, Tai Chi, yoga, calisthenics, acrobatics, hip hop, afrobeats, and Rwanda’s traditional Intore culture and dance.
Activities
Daily and weekly Tai Chi, yoga, and calisthenics training with the team
Village and citywide bike tours
Dance training for the youth
Intore “warrior” training, soon available to the public
Evaluations
Our current benchmark to hit for fitness is an average of 120 hour-long sessions each month, with an average cost of $3.04 per hour.
We are also measuring our impact by the size and strength of the community that forms around our fitness programs.
Guruka | Youth Mentorship
Challenge
Rwanda is making major strides in education: increasing access, improving conditions, and establishing competitive programs and universities. Notably, Rwanda Coding Academy was launched in 2019.
And yet, as is true in every society, there are youth who, due to circumstances or personal choice, do not follow conventional paths.
Action & Solution
Our mentorship program provides an additional choice for individuals with extraordinary potential.
We have the opportunity to guide these youth toward a happy, healthy, and successful future within the community, by letting them know that we see them, love them, and know their value.
We contribute a consistent routine, stable finances, positive role models, parent and teacher support, and a place to belong.
Activities
Daily morning check-ins before school, Monday through Friday, with games and homework review
Daily meals, including chapati, tea, eggs, fruit, and bread
Frequent afternoon check-ins after school, including dinner and games
Weekly football (soccer) matches every Friday
Frequent check-ins with parents and teachers
Holiday and weekend activities, including movies, art, reading, dance, and games that promote memory, teamwork, creativity, and pattern recognition
Providing school fees, lunch fees, supplies, and uniforms
Providing additional clothing and footwear
Providing hygiene products, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and lotion, and monitoring overall cleanliness and presentation
Periodic doctor visits
Embracing and celebrating individual personalities, qualities, and strengths on a daily basis
Evaluations
We evaluate progress with both objective and subjective methods.
Attendance
School reports
Teacher and parent assessments
Behavior, language, and manners
Self awareness
Group interactions
Regular assessments help us ensure positive impact and address subtle or overlooked needs.
As a unique blend of mentors, educators, and “second family,” distinct from traditional authorities, we have frequent conversations about each kid and seek to identify the areas where they will benefit most from additional attention, including schoolwork and emotional processing.
As our program evolves, we are refining our entry criteria, reviewing financial need, family support, and capacity. Our aim is to welcome and integrate two new students each year.
Our chances for success are high, as long as we can continue providing the baseline of our essential services and maintain a quality standard of support.
Encouraging scholarly education is only a part of our mission; however, celebrating the graduations of our first mentorship participants will be a significant and tangible milestone.
Hanga | Art Studio x Gallery
Challenge
Rwanda's art scene is rapidly evolving, producing paintings, sculptures, fashion, music, dance, and performances, that are playing a prominent role in supporting conservation, reflection, and beauty.
With the exception of a few breakthroughs, the local art scene remains isolated, a silo, separate from the rest of the world.
Action & Solution
Our art studio x gallery is a launchpad for emerging artists to elevate and market their work.
We have the opportunity to connect Rwandan artists with international art communities, expand their repertoire, advance their studies, refine their crafts, and build sustainable careers.
Our tables are marked by the mixing of paints. Our walls host an array of local artwork, in a variety of mediums, depicting people, animals, places, and experiences. And we’ve already helped facilitate several sales.
Activities
Internal workshops with the team, local artists, and youth
Art classes for the public
Evaluations
Quantity of artwork generated
Quantity of sales
Use of new mediums, materials, and styles that push boundaries and explore unique expression
Murugo | Lodging Studio
Challenge
Rwanda has an active tourism industry. With access to gorilla trekking in the north, Musanze is a popular destination and has a wide range of lodging options in and around the city.
However, as Rwanda solidifies its place on the map, the gap between the tourism and local economies continues to widen, with local residents feeling more brunt than benefit from the boom.
Action & Solution
Our lodging and accommodations bring travelers into the heart of the Rwandan experience.
We have the opportunity to attract international visitors, for short and long-term residencies, with the explicit intent of furthering direct knowledge exchange and collaboration with local residents.
We are already connecting global innovators with Rwandan youth and artists, inspiring mutual respect, impact, and inspiration. In the words of our recent guests from Cologne, Germany: “STAY HERE.”
Activities
Setting up and maintaining our guestrooms
Tending to overnight guests
Drafting a countrywide Travel Guide
Evaluations
Our current benchmark to hit for lodging is an average of 15 nights booked per month, with an average cost of $65.00 per night between two guestrooms
Number and frequency of repeat customers
Number and frequency of referrals and new customers
Positive reviews and an increase in volume
Diversity of origin (so far, we’ve hosted guests from Germany, Canada, the USA, and Rwanda)
Extent of cultural exchanges, including ideas, tech, food, art, etc
BUDGET
BREAKDOWNS
Current Expenses
MO avg. $1,609.53
YR avg. $18,619.62
3 YR avg. $55,858.86
+ 3% inflation $61,014.90
Breakdown
YR avg.
$6,832.92 — Food, supplies, transportation
$5,722.20 — Team
$3,969.48 — Rent, utilities, tools, software, repairs
$1,709.76 — Youth
$1,320.00 — Animals
$254.88 — Gifts + Misc
Growth Expenses
MO avg. $3,000
YR avg. $36,000
3 YR avg. $108,000
+ 3% inflation $111,240
Breakdown
How additional funds will be directed:
Company
Pay raises for the current team
New hires and/or contract work for business administration, accounting, and legal support
Film
See independent budget below
Food
New equipment, including an extra fridge and freezer for food storage, allowing us to expand what we offer and at a higher quantity
New hires for kitchen management, cooking, washing, and serving
Upgrades to our “rustic” setting for a more comfortable space for guests to eat and lounge
Fitness
Additional equipment, including yoga mats and hand weights
Adult and youth bicycles
Mentorship
Additional meals for the youth, twice a day, to boost consistent nutrition
Additional support for primary families, including food, supplies, and clothing
Additional activities, including classes, field trips, and skills training
Art
Additional art supplies, including paint, canvases, and brushes
Printmaking, packaging, and shipping
Lodging
Functional upgrades, including floor resurfacing, water heaters, window repair, etc
Experiential upgrades, including new towels, pillows, blankets, furniture, etc
Projected Revenue
MO avg. $5,652.30
YR avg. $67,827.60
3 YR avg. $203,482.80
+ 3% inflation $209,587.68
Breakdown
Food
$51,750.00 / YR
Food is currently our highest source of revenue
The current average revenue per order is $6.25
Our seating capacity is 23 guests at a time
Twenty-three orders per day, per month, equals $51,750.00 in yearly revenue
Lodging
$11,700.00 / YR
Together, our two guest rooms equal $65.00 per night
Guests at 50% capacity (15 days booked per month), equals $11,700.00 in yearly revenue
Fitness
$4,377.60 / YR
One hour of fitness training is approximately $3.04 per person
Training at 50% capacity (8 hours of training for 15 days), equals $4,377.60 in yearly revenue
*These projections are based on past orders and bookings. We are currently generating revenue in 3 out of 6 studios. In the future, we also expect to generate revenue through film and art.
Projected Profit
REVENUE: $209,587.68
EXPENSES: $111,240
PROFIT: $98,347.68
*3 YR avg. + 3% inflation (below 50% capacity)
Strategies
Recent growth strategies:
Launched our first website
Launched a new affiliate marketing program for food and lodging
Added a second bedroom to our guestroom listing
Expanded our menu options from 1 to 14 dishes per day
Began offering takeout from our kitchen
Expanded our open kitchen hours from 3 to 7 hours daily, 5 days a week
Held our first on-site art class, hosted by our curator, Christian Nsinzi
Upcoming growth strategies:
Adding bike tours
Adding warrior training
Themed art galleries and auctions with related events
Challenges
1
Our primary challenge to solve is marketing, letting more people know about us.
2
Our next challenge will be managing an increase in service volume.
Solutions
1
Our new website and affiliate marketing program launched on July 29th, 2024. In this early stage, we are feeling optimistic about their success.
The affiliate program will allow us access to new communities and networks. It also allows us to collaborate with more people and support the local economy in a unique way.
The website makes it easier to share our services, especially our menu and pre-order instructions. As we continue to undergo changes, it is easy to update customers with a live link.
2
In our projections, we capped our food capacity at 23 orders daily. This is accurate for what we can manage with our current team, kitchen, supplies, and storage. For our first several months, our kitchen was only open to the public for 3 hours a day, 5 days a week.
In the spring of 2023, our team held weekly off-site events. We prepared food and served 30-50 people at each event. Then, however, we only prepared one meal for each event. Now, to attract and retain loyal customers, we depend on a menu with variety.
We recently expanded our kitchen hours to 7 hours daily and this is going to stretch our team. When we acquire new equipment and hire a larger team, then we can expand to 9+ hours a day, 7 days a week, and greatly increase our service capacity and revenue.
2x KuZiko Capacity
If we double our kitchen capacity (from 23 to 46 orders per day), at $6.25 per order, that equals:
$287.50 daily avg. revenue
$8,625 monthly avg. revenue
$103,500 yearly avg. revenue
Plus revenue from fitness and lodging:
Total YR avg. $119,577.60
Total 3 YR avg. $358,732.80
Total 3 YR avg. + 3% inflation $369,505.18
50% Capacity Profit
REVENUE: $369,505.18
EXPENSES: $111,240
PROFIT: $258,265.18
*3 YR avg. + 3% inflation (at 50% capacity)
Startup Debt
$872.69
$5,827.80
$5,847.20
$12,547.69
Repayment
Our first line of credit to support startup costs was established on July 10th, 2022. We officially opened our kitchen and began generating revenue on May 10th, 2024. As of August 2024, we still have remaining startup debt to repay.
Fortunately, this debt is not classified as a liability on our balance sheet, as it is not directly linked to the company's operations. The credit was secured separately by our directors to safeguard the company and its stakeholders. However, we remain responsible for repaying the funds.
Film Bridge Funding
$60,000
The budget for small to mid-sized independent films can vary widely based on several factors, including the scope of the project, location, talent, and genre.
Small Independent Films
Typical budgets for small independent films usually fall within $100,000 to $1 million. These films often have modest production values and may involve local talent and crew. They might rely on crowdfunding, grants, or low-budget financing.
Mid-Sized Independent Films
Typical budgets for mid-sized independent films usually fall within $1 million to $10 million. Films in this range often have more professional production values, higher-profile cast and crew, and may include some marketing and distribution budget. They might be funded through a combination of private investors, production companies, and pre sales.
Breakdown
Pre production costs can range from $10,000 to $200,000.
Production costs for small films might be $50,000 to $500,000. For mid-sized films, it can range from $500,000 to $5 million.
Post production costs can range from $20,000 to $500,000.
For marketing and distribution, small films might allocate $10,000 to $100,000, while mid-sized films may spend $100,000 to $2 million or more.
Other costs include legal fees, insurance, and contingency funds. These can add an additional 5-10% of the total budget.
Bridge Funding
Keeping in mind that these figures are general estimates and actual budgets vary, we are currently seeking $60,000 in bridge funding.
How funds will be directed:
Screenwriters
Editors
Translators
Copyright fees
Authorization fees
Research & development
Planning
Budgeting
Communication
Cast and crew hires
Administration (contracts, permits, etc.)
Scouting
Camera concepts
Design (production, costume, tech)
Production schedule
Software and some equipment
We will maximize the use of these funds to their fullest extent. Any remaining funds will be allocated toward production costs. We anticipate the need for additional financing to complete production.
This bridge funding allows us to focus more time and energy on the project, accelerating its progress.
Property Estimate
$83,491.46
Our Home
Turabizo Studios has been operating from the same property since April 17th, 2021.
While we do not currently own the property, we envision renovating and expanding from our existing location. Should it become necessary to purchase land elsewhere, we still wish to maintain some operations at our current site.
This space is key to our brand, holds emotional significance for our team and youth, and it’s located in an ideal neighborhood. It’s on a quiet, safe, peaceful street. It’s conveniently close to the main road and only a 10 minute walk to Bukane, the local primary school where most of our kids attend.
With ownership of the property and building, we will be able to make the necessary physical upgrades to significantly improve the operations of the company and each studio.
We are aware that acquiring the property and house will cost at least $75,901.33. We’re also confident that it will not cost more than $83,491.46. We aim to purchase the property for increased stability and security, minimizing the risk of relocation.
Our landlord has expressed interest in selling the property to us, providing an open window of opportunity as soon as we are ready.
Vehicle Estimate
$23,339.66
We have started searching for vehicles and have found offers ranging from $12,523.72 to $34,155.60. We are confident that we can find a suitable vehicle within this price range.
A vehicle will be a valuable asset for:
Film
Location scouting, travel to production sites, tech design, rehearsals, and equipment transport
Food
Expanding our menu by making more frequent trips to Kigali for additional ingredients and supplies not readily available in Musanze, as well as general errands and supplies pick-up
Mentorship
Facilitating transportation for the kids to various destinations like museums, events, and field trips, as well as visiting their families throughout the district
Art
Transporting art and attending art events in Kigali
Lodging & Tourism
Offering private transportation for local and international travelers, including to and from the airport in Kigali
Car Rentals
Car rental in Rwanda is a profitable secondary income stream, particularly during peak tourism and wedding seasons. Daily rental rates typically range from $30 to $40
While our current operations are functioning without a vehicle, having one would significantly improve our efficiency. Once we have the necessary funds and identify a suitable vehicle, we plan to make a purchase.
Expansion Plan
$X?
We envision expanding from our current property, renovating our house, and building a proper campus.
This is part of our long-term vision and we have not yet begun to assess the financial requirements, which we anticipate will be substantial.
The funds in this proposal are listed by priority, with an expansion as our last priority.
If we achieve the anticipated profit levels and successfully execute our film project, we aim to generate a significant portion of the funding required for our expansion.
For further details on this vision, please refer to the section titled “Future Vision.”
GRAND TOTAL
$111,240 / Daily Operations
+ $12,547.69 / Startup Debt
+ $60,000 / Film Bridge Funding
+ $83,491.46 / Property Estimate
+ $23,339.66 / Vehicle Estimate
= $290,618.81 Total
Scope
We have the opportunity to be a key anchor in northern Rwanda by creating hundreds of jobs, influencing international perception, attracting an influx of visitors, supporting local residents, boosting the economy, and nurturing future thought leaders and innovators who will contribute the region’s long-term development.
Benchmarks
1 - Stable foundational operations
Our primary goal is to achieve self-sufficiency and sustainability. Although our progress has been gradual, our initial results are promising. Based on our current and past accounting records, our projections indicate significant future potential. Ultimately, we aim to reach a revenue level where the company is fully self-supported and no longer reliant on external funding.
2 - Published film product
After stabilizing our operations, our next focus will be the film project, which will spur additional team and operational growth while elevating our global presence. We anticipate that the film’s message will resonate on an international scale, drawing attention to Rwanda and our initiative, and acting as a catalyst for further expansion.
3 - Expanded facilities
Following the successful launch of the film, we will design and construct expanded facilities to significantly scale up our operations, team, and impact. Our vision is to transform the company into a comprehensive community hub—a vibrant campus better equipped to serve both locals and travelers.
Risk
Our current, primary risks include dependence on a single funding source and insufficient revenue streams.
Mitigation
Despite these risks, all of our studios remain operational and our commitment to the community is unwavering. Historically, our Founder Eric has been the primary source of funding for our initiatives. Recognizing the limitations of this approach for long-term growth, we are actively working to reduce and eventually eliminate this dependence.
Since Spring 2024, we have started generating our own revenue, demonstrating our potential and setting a positive trajectory for the future. We are focusing on diversifying our revenue streams to reduce the hazards associated with reliance on a single source.
We meticulously track our status and progress, including daily guest counts, food and drink orders, supply use, expenses, revenue, profit, feedback, challenges, solutions, and strategies. Our reviews—daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly—ensure we stay on track, address issues promptly, and remain aligned with our long-term objectives.
While our priority has always been people over profits, our current goal is to excel in both areas. To overcome the financial challenges we face and secure a stable future, we are seeking additional funding. This support will strengthen our operations, expand our customer base, and solidify our income streams.
Sustainability
Initial financial security creates a buffer, ensuring ongoing operations and paving the way for long-term stability and growth.
A solid financial runway provides the time to build our customer base and reputation, enables us to improve services and operations to effectively meet and grow with demand, and allows us to measure performance and make adjustments to ensure we surpass our financial goals.
Expanding our team will allow each member to specialize in their respective areas, minimizing overlap and preventing overextension, which in turn enhances both quality and effectiveness.
This runway also allows us to save for future risks and improvement projects, setting aside earnings to sustain operations beyond the funding period and serve as a launchpad to true independence.
It is too early to predict the success of the film project; however, if we are able to achieve a quality product within the funding period and find the right platform, we will have created an ongoing, passive income for the company.
CONCLUSION
Impact
Our company has already made a significant impact and holds the potential to transform lives on a larger scale.
Our steadfast and resilient team continually proves their dedication and commitment to improvement.
Our grassroots approach has built meaningful connections with our neighbors, and we are committed to growing in close alignment with our community.
Our reputation is solid, our presence valued, and we are expected to uphold high standards.
Damages
Discontinuing our operations now would be devastating—not only for the team that has invested years of hard work but also for the local youth who depend on us for stability.
Our presence is a cornerstone of the community, and abandoning our efforts at this critical juncture would have detrimental consequences.
While the community is resilient and adaptable, the loss of our potential impact would be profound.
Change
As we navigate financial constraints, securing additional funding is crucial for our continued growth and goal achievement. These funds will act as a springboard for our future expansion, enabling us to drive meaningful change.
For those unfamiliar with Rwanda or Africa, we invite you to visit and experience our work firsthand. If you require more information to understand and support our cause, we are happy to provide it.
We also recognize and deeply appreciate those who intuitively grasp the significance of our work. Your support can help us create something of lasting, generational impact.
Support
We welcome donations through our GFM campaign; however, as a private business, these donations are not tax-deductible.
We are not accepting investment at this time but plan to make this option available in the future.
If you are interested in making a larger donation as a grant or sponsorship, please contact us directly.
We are currently offering a variety of gifts in return for your support. We also invite you to follow our weekly and quarterly reports for updates.
Thank you
Thank you for considering our proposal.
We look forward to the opportunity to discuss how your support can make a difference.
Contact
Eric Buron
buron.m.eric@gmail.com
+1 (917) 474-0465