| Sumario: | This study assessed the technical, environmental, economic, and institutional feasibility of expanding vermicompost production and business models in Ethiopia’s Rift Valley Basin, with a focus on the Wondo Genet, Misraq Mesqan, Wera, and Atote Ulo districts. The motivation was to address declining soil fertility, rising fertilizer costs, limited information on business model feasibility, and the need for rural employment opportunities. Using a mixed approach—including focus group discussions (FGDs), key informant interviews (KIIs), field observations, literature reviews, and cost-benefit analysis—the study examined current practices, business models, production scenarios, as well as their environmental, technical, institutional, and financial viability. Twelve different scenarios were analyzed across five factors: market model, production type, labor input, institutional support, and seasonal changes. The business model canvas (BMC) framework was used to design and evaluate enterprise models, and financial feasibility was assessed using Net Benefit (NB) and Benefit–Cost Ratio (BCR) metrics. Results showed notable spatial differences in vermicompost production potential across the sites. Wondo Genet was identified as the best location due to reliable water sources, biomass availability, and institutional support. Financial viability also varied among scenarios, where production supported by research, wet-season production, and modern systems were the most economically feasible, with BCRs of 2.24, 1.88, and 1.81, respectively. Traditional production, dry-season efforts, co-operative-led sales, and similar approaches were found to be financially unviable (BCR < 1). Major risks include market uncertainty, institutional fragmentation, seasonal inputs, environmental variability, and limited access to finance. Opportunities exist to utilize abundant organic waste, decrease reliance on chemical fertilizers, and create inclusive rural jobs. Our findings suggest that combining technical assistance, cooperative marketing connections, and infrastructure improvements can greatly boost the profitability and sustainability of vermicompost businesses in wet climates, providing a promising pathway for improving rural livelihoods through agriculture.
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