Kenya - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

PikaMeal is a pay as you go solar cooking device designed to operate efficiently in African homes

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

My startup is called Hisia Designs and it is 6 months old. At Hisia Designs, we develop sustainable hardware and software designed for African communities. Our first product is called PikaMeal, a solar-powered hydrogen cooking device that leverages IoT for enhanced functionality. Traditional cooking methods, relying on wood, charcoal, and kerosene, pose significant health and environmental risks. PikaMeal addresses these issues by using solar energy for electrolysis to produce hydrogen, providing a clean cooking fuel. The pay-as-you-go model makes this technology accessible by spreading costs. Key features include remote monitoring and control via IoT, efficient solar power systems, robust hydrogen storage, and user-friendly interfaces. Our vision is to revolutionize clean cooking, making it sustainable, efficient, and affordable for all. Join us in transforming the way the world cooks, promoting health, and protecting the environment.

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

The main problem we are addressing is the reliance on traditional cooking fuels such as wood, charcoal, and kerosene, which pose significant health risks and environmental damage. These fuels release harmful pollutants, contributing to respiratory diseases and deforestation. Additionally, the high upfront costs of clean energy alternatives hinder widespread adoption, especially in low-income communities. Our solution, the PikaMeal solar-powered hydrogen cooking device, aims to provide a renewable, cost-effective, and user-friendly cooking solution. By leveraging solar power for hydrogen production and integrating IoT for remote monitoring and control, we make clean cooking accessible and affordable through a pay-as-you-go model. Our goal is to reduce health hazards, environmental impact, and economic barriers associated with traditional cooking methods.

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

Our PikaMeal solar-powered hydrogen cooking device offers several major benefits: Health and Environmental Safety: By replacing traditional fuels like wood, charcoal, and kerosene with clean hydrogen, PikaMeal eliminates harmful emissions that cause respiratory illnesses and deforestation, promoting a healthier environment and improving public health. Cost-Effectiveness: The pay-as-you-go model reduces the financial barrier to adopting clean cooking technology, making it accessible to low-income households. Users can pay for what they use, eliminating the need for a high upfront investment. Advanced Functionality and Convenience: PikaMeal integrates IoT technology, allowing for remote monitoring and control via a mobile app. Users can adjust cooking settings, monitor system status, and manage payments in real-time, enhancing user experience and ensuring efficient operation. These benefits combine to offer a sustainable, affordable, and user-friendly cooking solution tha

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

Our startup, Hisia Designs, aims to serve low-income households in African communities who rely on traditional cooking fuels such as wood, charcoal, and kerosene. These households often face significant health risks from smoke inhalation and struggle with the financial burden of purchasing these fuels. Additionally, our product targets communities that lack access to reliable and affordable clean energy alternatives due to high upfront costs. Women and children, who are typically responsible for cooking and are most affected by indoor air pollution, are primary beneficiaries. Our PikaMeal solar-powered hydrogen cooking device offers a sustainable, cost-effective, and user-friendly solution that improves health, reduces environmental impact, and provides economic relief to these communities. We also aim to empower these households by providing educational resources and support to ensure successful adoption and use of our technology.

01.05 When was your company established?

2023-01-01

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

No

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

1

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

0

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

Our startup, Hisia Designs, is co-founded by a team of skilled and experienced professionals dedicated to creating sustainable solutions for African communities. 1. Mark Odhiambo - Hardware Engineer o Experience: Currently a Hardware Engineer at Synnefa Green Limited. o Skills: Previously worked at Kenya Power and Lighting Company. Expert in microcontroller programming, solar power systems, hydrogen storage, and IoT integration. Skilled in SCADA control systems, PLC programming, and power system simulations. Expertise in testing and maintaining transformers and protective relays. 2. Co-founder 2 - Software Engineer o Experience: Former Software Engineer at Lafema Systems Limited. o Skills: Proficient in Java, C#, JavaScript, React, Node.js, cloud computing, and AI data analysis. Developed IoT platforms, AI algorithms, and user-friendly applications. Together, our team combines expertise in hardware engineering, software development, and electrical engineering to drive innovation

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

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

a) Energy (equipment, services, sustainable energy and fuel)

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Our startup, Hisia Designs, contributes to the goal of No Poverty by making clean cooking technology affordable and accessible to low-income households in African communities. Traditional cooking methods, such as using wood, charcoal, and kerosene, create a financial burden due to recurring fuel costs. Our product, PikaMeal, utilizes a pay-as-you-go model, allowing users to spread the costs over time, making it financially manageable for low-income families. By reducing the reliance on costly and harmful fuels, PikaMeal frees up household income for other essential needs such as education, healthcare, and nutrition. Furthermore, our solution empowers communities by creating local job opportunities in the production, maintenance, and distribution of our technology. By promoting economic savings, improving health outcomes, and fostering local employment, Hisia Designs directly contributes to reducing poverty and enhancing the quality of life for underserved populations.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Our startup, contributes to the Zero Hunger goal by improving food security and promoting sustainable agriculture through our innovative cooking solution, PikaMeal. By utilizing solar power for hydrogen production, PikaMeal provides a reliable and clean energy source for cooking, which ensures that households can prepare meals even in areas with limited access to traditional fuels. This stability in cooking resources helps prevent food wastage and ensures consistent meal preparation, directly impacting food security. Additionally, the economic savings from reduced fuel costs allow families to allocate more resources toward purchasing nutritious food, enhancing overall diet quality. Our focus on sustainability reduces the environmental impact of traditional cooking methods, thereby supporting agricultural practices that rely on healthy ecosystems. By empowering communities with affordable, sustainable cooking solutions, Hisia Designs plays a crucial role in addressing hunger

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

Our startup strongly contributes to the Good Health and Well-being goal through our PikaMeal solar-powered hydrogen cooking device. Traditional cooking fuels like wood, charcoal, and kerosene release harmful pollutants that cause respiratory illnesses and other health issues. By replacing these fuels with clean hydrogen, PikaMeal significantly reduces indoor air pollution, thereby preventing respiratory diseases and improving overall health. Moreover, the reduction in time and effort spent collecting firewood decreases physical strain and injury risk, particularly for women and children. The economic savings from lower fuel costs can be redirected toward healthcare and nutrition, further enhancing well-being. PikaMeal's integration with IoT allows for remote monitoring and timely maintenance, ensuring consistent and safe operation. By promoting a healthier cooking environment and supporting overall well-being, Hisia Designs plays a vital role in ensuring healthy lives

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

Our startup, Hisia Designs, strongly contributes to the Quality Education goal by empowering communities with access to sustainable technology and educational resources through our PikaMeal solar-powered hydrogen cooking device. In many low-income regions, traditional cooking methods hinder educational opportunities, particularly for women and children who spend significant time collecting firewood or suffer health setbacks from indoor air pollution. PikaMeal's adoption reduces these barriers by providing a reliable and clean energy source, freeing up time for educational pursuits and improving attendance rates in schools. Moreover, by integrating IoT technology, PikaMeal offers learning opportunities in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, as users engage with remote monitoring and control systems.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Hisia Designs strongly contributes to the Gender Equality goal by addressing key barriers that disproportionately affect women and girls in African communities. Traditional cooking methods often burden women and girls with tasks such as collecting firewood, which not only limits their educational and economic opportunities but also exposes them to health risks from indoor air pollution. PikaMeal, our solar-powered hydrogen cooking device, reduces these inequalities by providing a clean and efficient cooking solution. By minimizing the time and effort required for cooking tasks traditionally assigned to women, PikaMeal empowers them to pursue education, employment, and community engagement opportunities. This shift in household responsibilities promotes gender equality by challenging traditional gender roles and empowering women to participate more actively in decision-making processes.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

Hisia Designs contributes significantly to the Clean Water and Sanitation goal through our innovative approach to reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices in African communities. PikaMeal, our solar-powered hydrogen cooking device, plays a crucial role in this goal by reducing reliance on traditional cooking fuels like wood and charcoal, which contribute to deforestation and water pollution. Deforestation from wood collection can disrupt local water cycles and degrade water quality in nearby rivers and streams. By promoting clean cooking with hydrogen, PikaMeal mitigates these environmental impacts, ensuring sustainable management of water resources. Moreover, the integration of IoT technology in PikaMeal allows for efficient water management practices. Users can monitor and control their cooking remotely, minimizing water consumption during food preparation. This not only conserves water but also promotes sustainable water use practices in households.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

Hisia Designs strongly contributes to the Affordable and Clean Energy goal by pioneering the adoption of sustainable energy solutions in African communities through our innovative product, PikaMeal. PikaMeal is a solar-powered hydrogen cooking device that addresses the dual challenge of affordability and cleanliness in energy access. Traditional cooking fuels like wood, charcoal, and kerosene are not only expensive over time but also contribute to indoor and outdoor air pollution, impacting health and exacerbating climate change. By harnessing solar power to produce clean hydrogen fuel, PikaMeal offers a cost-effective and sustainable alternative for cooking. Our pay-as-you-go model makes PikaMeal accessible to low-income households, allowing them to spread the cost of ownership over time while reducing their expenditure on traditional fuels. This affordability empowers families to allocate savings towards other essential needs such as education, healthcare and livelihood

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

4

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

Once Hisia Designs grows, it aims to contribute significantly to Decent Work and Economic Growth by creating more job opportunities within the community. As our operations expand and demand for our sustainable technology increases, we foresee employing local talent in various roles such as manufacturing, distribution, customer support, and technical services. By fostering economic growth through job creation, Hisia Designs aims to promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic development in the regions we serve.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Hisia Designs contributes significantly to Industry Innovation and Infrastructure by pioneering the development and adoption of sustainable technology solutions in African communities. Our flagship product, PikaMeal, a solar-powered hydrogen cooking device, exemplifies innovation by integrating renewable energy sources with IoT technology. This combination not only provides clean cooking solutions but also fosters innovation in energy efficiency and management. By utilizing solar power for hydrogen production and integrating IoT for remote monitoring and control, PikaMeal promotes sustainable industrialization in regions where access to modern infrastructure is limited. Furthermore, Hisia Designs is committed to building resilient infrastructure by partnering with local stakeholders to establish manufacturing hubs and distribution networks. These initiatives not only support local economies but also enhance the reliability and accessibility of our products and services.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Hisia Designs contributes to the goal of Reduced Inequalities by addressing socio-economic disparities and promoting equitable access to sustainable technology solutions in African communities. Traditional cooking methods, such as using wood, charcoal, and kerosene, disproportionately affect low-income households, exacerbating inequalities in health, education, and economic opportunities. PikaMeal, reduces reliance on costly and harmful fuels. The pay-as-you-go model makes PikaMeal accessible to low-income families, enabling them to improve their quality of life without the financial burden associated with traditional energy sources. Moreover, by integrating IoT technology, PikaMeal enhances usability and efficiency, leveling the playing field for users in rural and underserved areas who often lack access to modern infrastructure. This technological inclusivity empowers marginalized communities by providing them with tools to enhance productivity and economic resilience

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

4

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

Hisia Designs contributes significantly to the goal of Sustainable Cities and Communities by promoting clean energy solutions and fostering resilient, inclusive, and sustainable human settlements in African regions. Urban and rural communities alike face challenges related to energy access, environmental sustainability, and quality of life. PikaMeal, our solar-powered hydrogen cooking device, addresses these challenges by offering a clean and affordable alternative to traditional cooking fuels. By reducing indoor air pollution and reliance on biomass, PikaMeal contributes to creating healthier living environments in both urban and rural settings. Furthermore, the integration of IoT technology in PikaMeal enhances safety, efficiency, and user experience, thereby promoting the adoption of modern energy solutions in communities where infrastructure may be lacking. This technological advancement not only improves quality of life but also strengthens community resilience against crises

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

Hisia Designs strongly contributes to the Responsible Consumption and Production goal by promoting sustainable practices and fostering a circular economy through our innovative technology solutions. PikaMeal, our solar-powered hydrogen cooking device, exemplifies responsible consumption by reducing the reliance on non-renewable and environmentally harmful cooking fuels such as wood, charcoal, and kerosene. By harnessing solar energy for hydrogen production, PikaMeal offers a clean and sustainable alternative that minimizes carbon emissions and environmental degradation associated with traditional fuel consumption. Moreover, Hisia Designs adopts a circular economy approach by designing products that prioritize durability, efficiency, and recyclability. PikaMeal's components are designed for longevity and are recyclable, reducing waste and promoting resource efficiency throughout the product lifecycle.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Hisia Designs is deeply committed to contributing to the Climate Action goal by tackling the challenges of climate change through our innovative sustainable energy solutions. PikaMeal, our solar-powered hydrogen cooking device, plays a pivotal role in combating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting renewable energy adoption. Traditional cooking methods like burning wood and charcoal release significant amounts of carbon dioxide and other pollutants, contributing to global warming and air pollution. By harnessing solar energy for hydrogen production, PikaMeal offers a clean and efficient alternative that minimizes carbon footprints and environmental impacts associated with cooking. Moreover, Hisia Designs integrates IoT technology into PikaMeal, enhancing energy efficiency and optimizing resource use. Remote monitoring and control capabilities provided by IoT enable users to manage energy consumption effectively, further reducing environmental impact.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

2

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

Hisia Designs contributes significantly to the Life Below Water goal by promoting sustainable practices that conserve marine resources and reduce pollution impacts on aquatic ecosystems. While directly addressing marine conservation, Hisia Designs indirectly impacts the goal through the use of sustainable resources that promote good health

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

4

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

Hisia Designs plays a crucial role in contributing to the Life on Land goal by advocating for and implementing sustainable practices that protect terrestrial ecosystems and promote biodiversity conservation. Our flagship product, PikaMeal, a solar-powered hydrogen cooking device, significantly reduces the demand for traditional cooking fuels such as wood and charcoal. This reduction in biomass extraction helps mitigate deforestation and land degradation, preserving vital terrestrial ecosystems and habitats for wildlife.

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

3

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Hisia Designs contributes to the Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions goal by promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusive community engagement through our sustainable technology initiatives.

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

2

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Hisia Designs strongly contributes to the Partnerships for the Goal by actively engaging in collaborative efforts with diverse stakeholders to advance sustainable development. Our approach to partnerships revolves around fostering meaningful collaborations with local communities, governments, NGOs, academia, and industry partners. These partnerships are instrumental in co-designing and implementing innovative solutions like PikaMeal, our solar-powered hydrogen cooking device. By integrating local knowledge and expertise into our product development process, we ensure that our solutions are contextually relevant and address community needs effectively.

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

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

4

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.

1 - Strongly Disagree

06.08 Justification for my startup

The product/service envisioned by Hisia Designs is distinctly innovative due to its response to an unmet need in the market. Our PikaMeal solar-powered hydrogen cooking device is not just an improvement on existing solutions but represents a new technological advancement in clean energy cooking. Unlike traditional solar cookers, it utilizes hydrogen as a clean fuel source, addressing the limitations of sunlight dependency and cooking efficiency. This innovative approach not only enhances cooking reliability but also reduces environmental impact, making sustainable cooking accessible in regions with inconsistent sunlight. Furthermore, our device extends beyond typical solar cooking solutions by integrating hydrogen technology, which is novel in the context of portable cooking appliances. This unique combination not only improves cooking performance but also positions our product as a pioneer in sustainable cooking technologies.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main potential competitors in the market for clean energy cooking solutions include companies offering traditional solar cookers and alternative portable cooking devices or other renewable sources. However, Hisia Designs distinguishes itself through several key factors that set us apart: Hydrogen Technology: Unlike conventional solar cookers that rely solely on sunlight, our PikaMeal device utilizes hydrogen as a clean fuel source. This innovative approach ensures cooking reliability even in regions with inconsistent sunlight, Efficiency and Reliability: The integration of hydrogen technology enhances cooking efficiency, providing faster cooking times and consistent performance. User-Friendly Design: Our product is designed with user convenience in mind, featuring easy setup and operation. Market Accessibility: We aim to make clean energy cooking accessible to a broader demographic by offering a competitively priced, high-quality product.

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