When Ambinintsoa Ratsitoarison walked onto the virtual stage at PIM’s Demo Day, she carried more than just her pitch deck-she carried the hopes of her team, her community and her country. Representing EcoCoco, a startup turning coconut waste into clean energy and water solutions, Ambinintsoa not only delivered her first-ever pitch in English but also left the judges and audience inspired. By the end of the evening, she was named Top of Class Award Winner– a recognition of her relentless drive, innovation and leadership.
A Journey Rooted in Purpose
With over 12 years of experience in environmental conservation, humanitarian programs and impact investment with institutions such as UNESCO, the African Union and the World Bank, Ambinintsoa had long been supporting others in their entrepreneurial journeys. But becoming a mother to her son ignited a new fire.
“Motherhood gave me the courage to go beyond supporting entrepreneurs-to become one myself” she reflects.
That calling became EcoCoco – an impact-driven startup that transforms coconut waste into sustainable energy solutions while empowering local communities. Alongside their flagship clean energy briquettes, EcoCoco is developing an activated charcoal line, currently in lab testing, to further extend its impact on health and sustainability.
Balancing Motherhood, Leadership and Learning
When she joined the InnovImpact Incubator earlier this year, Ambinintsoa wasn’t chasing a prize. Instead, she sought mentorship, credibility and the skills to take her venture to global recognition.
The program was anything but easy. From March to July, she balanced intensive incubator workshops with her selection into the Mandela Washington Fellowship program in the U.S., all while raising her two-year-old son and leading a volunteer-driven EcoCoco team.
“Many nights, I stayed up late meeting deadlines and woke up early to care for my baby while running EcoCoco,” she recalls. “It was challenging, but it made me more ambitious and confident.”
Learning, Growing and Winning- Most memorable takeaway
One of her most transformative learnings came from mentor Kome, who introduced her to TAM-SAM-SOM market analysis tools. “Before, I would say our target market was everyone in Madagascar. Now, I know how to structure our approach and plan for growth.”
At Demo Day, Ambinintsoa’s preparation and persistence shone through. Despite her nerves, she delivered a compelling pitch that resonated with judges, peers and investors. The recognition was profound – two awards in one night: Top of Class and the Startup Warrior Award.
“Demo Day was unforgettable. It wasn’t just about pitching – it was the moment I realized how far my team and I had come. I’ll carry that with me forever.”
The Road Ahead
EcoCoco is now at a critical stage, transitioning from handmade production to industrial scale. The startup requires $50,000 for six production machines and has already secured $10,000 through grants, enabling the purchase of its first machine, soon to arrive in Madagascar. With this milestone, EcoCoco plans to launch its products commercially by the end of the year.
The vision is bold: to scale operations, expand internationally and continue proving that sustainability and community empowerment go hand in hand.
A Role Model for Future Entrepreneurs
Ambinintsoa’s journey is a testament to resilience and vision. Her advice to future PIM participants is simple yet powerful:
“Give your very best. Take on challenges. Learn from everyone you meet. And remember : your dream is never too big.”
Her story embodies what PIM stands for – empowering leaders who dare to dream and equipping them to turn those dreams into impact.
As PIM continues to nurture and showcase talent through platforms like Demo Day, Ambinintsoa’s success reminds us of the potential within every aspiring entrepreneur. She is not just the Top of Class – she is proof that with courage, learning and persistence, one can transform obstacles into opportunities for change.
About Ambinintsoa: (LinkedIn)
Ambinintsoa Ratsitoarison is the founder of EcoCoco, a Malagasy impact-driven startup transforming coconut waste into clean energy and water solutions. With over 12 years of experience in environmental conservation, humanitarian programs, and impact investment – including roles with UNESCO, the African Union, and the World Bank; she brings deep expertise and passion to her entrepreneurial journey. A mother and changemaker, Ambinintsoa is committed to creating sustainable solutions that empower communities and protect the planet.
Writer :
Divya Shukla (LinkedIn)
Management Trainee, PIM
I’m a Pharmaceutical Science Graduate, driven by a passion for healthcare innovation, social impact and creative problem-solving. I’ve co-founded a volunteer initiative and actively led student-led projects and events. I love working with startups and thrive in dynamic environments where I can wear multiple hats.
