Zambia - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Empowering women-owned businesses through an innovative AI e-commerce platform in Africa, focusing on digitalization, inclusivity, and same-day delivery.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Zedex Vendors is a groundbreaking e-commerce platform empowering women-owned businesses across Africa. Our mission is twofold: to provide a robust digital marketplace that catalyzes the growth of women entrepreneurs and to bridge the gender gap in e-commerce. Through Zedex Vendors, women entrepreneurs access a user-friendly platform to showcase and sell their products or services online. We offer features such as free vendor registration, which lowers barriers to entry, and same-day delivery options, enhancing customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Our platform integrates cutting-edge AI technology to optimize user experience and streamline operations. Our business model includes earning revenue through a 10% commission on transactions and advertising fees. Additionally, we plan to offer subscription packages that enhance vendors' visibility and marketing tools.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

The main problem Zedex Vendors aims to solve is the limited digital presence and opportunities for women-owned businesses in Africa. Many women entrepreneurs face barriers to entering and thriving in ecommerce due to lack of suitable platforms, resources, and support tailored to their needs. By providing a dedicated ecommerce platform, Zedex Vendors empowers women to digitalize their businesses, reach broader markets, and overcome gender disparities in online commerce. Our goal is to create a more inclusive and equitable digital economy where women can thrive and contribute significantly to economic growth and empowerment.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your startup provides (at least 3).

Empowerment of Women Entrepreneurs: Zedex Vendors provides a dedicated platform that empowers women-owned businesses by offering them a space to showcase and sell their products or services online. This empowerment is crucial in bridging the gender gap in ecommerce and fostering economic independence. Access to a Digital Marketplace: Our platform offers easy access to a digital marketplace where vendors can reach a wider audience beyond their local markets. This access facilitates business growth, increases visibility, and opens up new revenue streams for women entrepreneurs. Innovative Features and Support: Zedex Vendors integrates advanced technology such as AI for enhanced user experience and operational efficiency. We offer features like same-day delivery options and comprehensive analytics to optimize sales strategies. Additionally, our platform provides support through resources, training, and networking opportunities tailored t

01.04 Please describe who exactly your startup’s product/service is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Zedex Vendors' product/service is aimed at serving women entrepreneurs in Africa who own and operate businesses of various sizes and sectors. Our targeted beneficiaries include women who face barriers to entry and growth in traditional marketplaces.

01.05 When was your company established?

2022-04-09

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

2

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

2

01.09 Please describe the profile of the other owners within your startup (skills, experience, etc.)

Karen Tembo- CEO/Founder- environmental engineer 2 years experience in Risk enginnering Skills- HTML coding, risk management, innovation, graphic designer Mercy Mumba- Civil Engineer, Co Founder - 7 years experience in construction industry and project management

01.10 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link(s) here:

https://zedexvendors.com/

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

h) IT (digital services, equipment and software)

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Zedex Vendors strongly contributes to the goal of reducing poverty by empowering women entrepreneurs, who are often marginalized and face economic barriers. By providing a digital platform that enables them to reach broader markets, increase sales, and grow their businesses, we create opportunities for financial stability and growth. This empowerment not only lifts individual women out of poverty but also contributes to economic development within their communities and beyond. Through our inclusive approach and support services, we aim to foster sustainable economic independence and reduce poverty levels among women in Africa.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Zedex Vendors likely contributes moderately to the Zero Hunger goal. While our direct impact on food security and sustainable agriculture may be limited, our platform indirectly supports women entrepreneurs who may be involved in food production or agriculture. By empowering these entrepreneurs economically, we contribute to their ability to address hunger and promote sustainable practices within their communities.

02.03.01 My startup contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

2

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification for my startup

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

edex Vendors contributes moderately to the Quality Education goal. While our primary focus is on empowering women entrepreneurs through ecommerce, our platform also provides educational opportunities in digital skills, marketing strategies, and business management. By offering resources, training, and networking opportunities tailored to the needs of women entrepreneurs in Africa, we support lifelong learning and skill development

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Zedex Vendors strongly contributes to the Gender Equality goal. Our platform is specifically designed to empower women-owned businesses in Africa, addressing the gender gap in ecommerce and providing equal opportunities for women entrepreneurs. By offering a dedicated marketplace, resources, and support tailored to their needs, we promote economic independence, leadership, and empowerment among women and girls.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

Our platform empowers women entrepreneurs by providing them with access to a digital marketplace where they can showcase and sell their products or services. This access to a broader market enhances their opportunities for full and productive employment, supporting economic growth and sustainability. Additionally, by offering resources, training, and support services, Zedex Vendors promotes entrepreneurship and job creation within communities

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Our platform integrates cutting-edge technology, such as AI in the form of virtual try-ons for enhanced user experience and operational efficiency, fostering innovation within the ecommerce sector in Africa. By providing a robust digital marketplace and leveraging advanced infrastructure solutions, we promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization. This approach not only supports the growth of women-owned businesses but also contributes to building resilient infrastructure and fostering technological innovation across the continent.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

3

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

3

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

4

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

4

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

02.16.01 My startup contributes to the Peace Justice and Strong Institutions goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

4

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

06.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.02 The product/service represents an entirely new type of product/service.

5

06.03 The product/service could be described as a new technology.

4

06.04 The product/service is an improvement on an existing product or service.

5

06.05 The product/service could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

6

06.06 The product/service responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.07 The product/service is a new version of an old product/service.

3

06.08 Justification for my startup

Unlike generic marketplaces, we offer tailored features like free vendor registration, same-day delivery options, and AI integration to enhance user experience and operational efficiency. Our commitment to bridging the gender gap in ecommerce, coupled with our comprehensive support services and educational resources, sets us apart. This unique approach not only addresses specific market needs but also drives inclusive economic growth and empowerment, making Zedex Vendors a pioneering force in transforming digital commerce across the continent.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Shop Bwana is a notable competitor offering a wide range of products, including construction materials and driving classes, but it lacks a niche focus like Zedex Vendors. Our platform specifically targets and empowers women-owned businesses in Africa, providing a dedicated space for them to showcase and sell their products or services online.

11.05 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

Yes, we have engaged a couple of female vendors who are creating handmade jewelry and are in the process of scheduling some digital classes.