Tanzania - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Campus VC is a digital sandbox that empowers studentpreneurs in Africa with the know-how and micro funding they need to grow their hustles in college.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Chui Academy operates a digital sandbox called Campus VC that empowers studentpreneurs with the knowledge and micro funding they need to launch and grow their hustles in college before graduation day. We use our web application and mobile apps to provide on-demand virtual training to aspiring and existing studentpreneurs. Instead of typical classroom lectures found in business school, our training is led by former studentpreneurs who have successfully launched businesses while in college, earning hundreds of thousands of dollars before graduating. Our sandbox model leverages the power of storytelling to inspire and motivate students to launch their hustles in college as opposed to waiting until they graduate. By showcasing the stories of former students like our founder's, who have successfully started and ran businesses while still in college, we're able to demonstrate that it's possible to create your own job and even employ others before you graduate.

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

We are addressing the staggering graduate unemployment crisis plaguing Africa. Across the African continent, the specter of graduate unemployment looms large, with more than 45% of graduates remaining jobless even a decade after completing their studies. The prevailing education system in Africa predominantly emphasizes academic disciplines and technical skills, often neglecting to impart entrepreneurial acumen and problem-solving abilities essential for navigating real-world challenges. Consequently, many graduates find themselves ill-prepared to leverage their acquired skills to create opportunities within their communities and generate sustainable income streams. There is very limited focus within African educational institutions on fostering entrepreneurship. While technical skills and academic knowledge are emphasized, students are not typically equipped to apply these skills to real-world problems and create successful ventures.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

The first benefit we give our users is that we equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to turn their business ideas into a reality. Through our platform, students are gaining practical experience and real-world insights from former studentpreneurs who have successfully launched businesses while in college. This exposure enhances their entrepreneurial acumen and fosters a mindset of innovation and problem-solving, and this is something they would never get in the traditional classroom context. The second benefit is that we are offering our users an alternative pathway to economic empowerment and self-sufficiency. Through our sandbox, students have the potential to create their own job opportunities, generate income, and contribute positively to their communities' socio-economic development. The third benefit is micro-funding. We run entrepreneurial challenges that identify the most promising studentpreneurs in our training and award them with up to $1k in funding.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Campus VC primarily targets college-level students who are seeking to explore entrepreneurship as an alternative avenue to conventional employment. We are developing a comprehensive platform to accommodate all students who want to build profitable solutions and create jobs for themselves as well as others. Currently, and until the end of 2024, we're experimenting with a business-to-consumer (B2C) model. During this period, students will continue to pay for access to our sandbox platform. As we establish a solid foundation for growth, our aim is to transition to a business-to-business (B2B) model, collaborating directly with educational institutions. At this stage, educational institutions will cover the costs for their students to access the sandbox platform, ensuring broader and more sustainable access. Our focus in the initial phase will be on working with students in East Africa, particularly in Tanzania and later expand to Rwanda and Kenya.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-03-03

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

1

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

0

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

Ann is a seasoned entrepreneur and angel investor with 20+ years of experience of doing business in Africa and the US. She has built multiple businesses that have generated $500,000+ in revenue. This business experience is one among the strongest pillars at Campus VC. Ann also has a multi-year experience working with multinational companies in Africa to build and maintain their digital infrastructure. Her experience spans across mobile development, web development and database architecture. Together, we are creating a strong team that is dedicated to helping students succeed in their entrepreneurial journey.

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

https://thecampusvc.com/

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: Education technologies

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

Campus VC is tackling the UN's SDG 1 - No Poverty by empowering student entrepreneurs in Africa with essential knowledge and micro-funding. By equipping students with the tools to create and grow their own businesses, we are fostering economic self-sufficiency and job creation. Our digital sandbox provides practical business education and financial support, enabling students to turn their ideas into viable enterprises. This proactive approach addresses the root causes of poverty by generating employment opportunities and driving economic development from within the community. As graduates become successful entrepreneurs, they not only secure their own financial stability but also contribute to the broader economy, thus helping to lift others out of poverty and break the cycle of unemployment.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Campus VC is addressing the UN's SDG 2 - Zero Hunger by empowering student entrepreneurs in Africa to create innovative agribusiness solutions and food-related ventures. Through our digital sandbox, students gain essential skills and micro-funding to develop sustainable agricultural practices, improve food production, and enhance supply chains. By fostering entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector, we are promoting food security and creating jobs, which increases access to nutritious food and reduces hunger. Our initiatives drive local food production, making communities more self-reliant and resilient against food scarcity, ultimately contributing to the eradication of hunger across the continent.

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

2

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

Since we are not a health company, we dont directly have much effect on this goal

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Campus VC is addressing the UN's SDG 4 - Quality Education by providing African student entrepreneurs with practical business education and hands-on experience. Our digital sandbox offers tailored training, resources, and mentorship that complement traditional academic learning, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. By equipping students with entrepreneurial skills and micro-funding, we enhance their learning outcomes, foster innovation, and prepare them for the job market. This approach not only improves educational quality but also empowers students to create sustainable businesses, thereby contributing to lifelong learning and professional growth.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Campus VC is addressing the UN's SDG 5 - Gender Equality by ensuring equal access to entrepreneurial resources and opportunities for female students in Africa. Our digital sandbox promotes inclusivity by providing tailored support, mentorship, and micro-funding specifically for women entrepreneurs. By empowering female students to develop and grow their own businesses, we are challenging gender stereotypes, reducing economic disparities, and fostering an environment where women can thrive as leaders and innovators. This commitment to gender equality not only enhances the economic potential of women but also contributes to broader societal changes, promoting equal opportunities and sustainable development for all.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

2

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Since we are not a water company, we dont directly have much effect on this goal.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

2

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Since we are not an energy company, we dont directly have much effect on this goal.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

Campus VC is addressing the UN's SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth by equipping African student entrepreneurs with the skills, knowledge, and micro-funding needed to launch and scale their businesses. Our digital sandbox fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, creating new job opportunities and driving economic growth. By supporting students in developing sustainable enterprises, we promote inclusive economic development and improve employability, reducing the high rates of youth unemployment. This approach not only stimulates economic activity but also ensures decent work conditions and fair economic participation, contributing to the overall prosperity and resilience of communities across Africa.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Campus VC is addressing the UN's SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure by fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation among African students. Our digital sandbox provides aspiring student entrepreneurs with the tools, mentorship, and micro-funding needed to develop cutting-edge businesses and technological solutions. By supporting the creation and growth of start-ups, we are driving the development of new industries and strengthening economic infrastructure. This focus on innovation enhances industrialization and promotes resilient infrastructure, ensuring sustainable economic growth and technological advancement across the continent. Our initiatives are key to building a robust ecosystem that supports industrial development and innovation.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Campus VC is addressing the UN's SDG 10 - Reduced Inequalities by providing equal access to entrepreneurial education and micro-funding for students across Africa, regardless of their socio-economic background. Our digital sandbox levels the playing field by offering resources and mentorship to underserved and marginalized communities, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to develop and grow their businesses. By empowering these student entrepreneurs, we are promoting social and economic inclusion, reducing disparities, and fostering upward mobility. This approach not only helps bridge the inequality gap but also ensures that the benefits of economic growth and innovation are shared more equitably across society.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

5

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Campus VC is addressing the UN's SDG 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities by empowering student entrepreneurs to develop innovative solutions that enhance urban sustainability and resilience. Through our digital sandbox, we support ventures in areas such as sustainable technology, green energy, urban agriculture, and waste management. These initiatives contribute to more efficient resource use, reduced environmental impact, and improved urban living conditions. By fostering local economic growth and job creation, we also promote social inclusion and community cohesion. Our efforts help build sustainable, resilient cities that can better withstand environmental and economic challenges, improving the quality of life for all residents.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

4

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Campus VC contributes to the UN's SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production by promoting sustainable practices among student entrepreneurs in Africa. Through our digital sandbox, we encourage businesses to adopt eco-friendly production methods, reduce waste generation, and promote recycling and reuse. By fostering innovation in sustainable products and services, we help drive responsible consumption patterns across the continent. Our support for circular economy principles ensures that resources are used efficiently and products have minimal environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. Ultimately, Campus VC plays a crucial role in advancing sustainable consumption and production practices, contributing to a more environmentally responsible future.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

3

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Campus VC addresses the UN's SDG 13 - Climate Action by empowering student entrepreneurs in Africa to develop and implement innovative solutions that mitigate and adapt to climate change. Through our digital sandbox, we support ventures focusing on renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable agriculture, and climate-resilient infrastructure. By fostering these initiatives, we contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing climate resilience, and promoting sustainable development. Our efforts empower the next generation of leaders to tackle climate challenges, fostering a more sustainable and resilient future for Africa and the planet as a whole.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Campus VC may not directly impact the UN's SDG 14 - Life Below Water, which focuses on conserving and sustainably using marine resources. Our initiatives primarily support student entrepreneurs in developing businesses and innovations that are more land-based and focused on urban environments or agriculture. While indirectly related through broader environmental sustainability efforts, our activities typically do not directly influence marine conservation or marine resource management, which are the core objectives of SDG 14. Therefore, our impact on SDG 14 may be limited compared to other goals more directly aligned with our entrepreneurial support and innovation focus.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

5

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Campus VC contributes to the UN's SDG 15 - Life on Land by fostering entrepreneurial ventures that promote sustainable land use and biodiversity conservation in Africa. Through our digital sandbox, we support student entrepreneurs developing businesses focused on sustainable agriculture, reforestation, ecosystem restoration, and wildlife conservation. These initiatives help preserve terrestrial ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and promote responsible land management practices. By empowering students to create businesses that prioritize environmental stewardship, we contribute to the protection and restoration of terrestrial habitats, ensuring the sustainable use of land resources for future generations.

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

5

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Campus VC indirectly supports the UN's SDG 16 - Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions by fostering economic opportunity and inclusive growth through entrepreneurship in Africa. While our primary focus is on empowering student entrepreneurs with knowledge and micro-funding, these initiatives contribute to stable and resilient communities. By promoting economic development and reducing inequalities, we help create a foundation for peaceful and just societies. Moreover, by encouraging ethical business practices and governance in our programs, we contribute to strengthening institutions and promoting accountability. While not directly addressing all aspects of SDG 16, our efforts contribute to creating an environment conducive to peace, justice, and strong institutions in the communities we serve.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Campus VC plays a crucial role in advancing the UN's SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals by fostering collaborations and partnerships across various sectors to support student entrepreneurs in Africa. Through our digital sandbox, we collaborate with educational institutions, government agencies, NGOs, and private sector partners to provide holistic support, including mentorship, training, and micro-funding. These partnerships amplify our impact, leveraging resources and expertise to empower young entrepreneurs and drive economic growth. By promoting multi-stakeholder partnerships, knowledge sharing, and capacity building, Campus VC contributes to achieving sustainable development goals collectively. Our collaborative approach fosters innovation, strengthens networks, and facilitates the exchange of best practices, ultimately advancing progress towards all SDGs, including economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion across Africa.

05.01 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

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

2

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

7 - Strongly Agree

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.08 Justification

Campus VC stands out as uniquely innovative by addressing a critical gap in entrepreneurial support for studentpreneurs in Africa. Unlike traditional educational platforms or incubators, we focus specifically on equipping students with practical business skills and micro-funding tailored to their needs, thereby filling a void in comprehensive support for young entrepreneurs. Our envisioned service improves upon existing models by combining educational resources with direct financial support, creating a holistic ecosystem that empowers students to not only innovate but also sustain their ventures through critical early stages. By bridging the gap between education and entrepreneurship with a dedicated digital sandbox, Campus VC offers a scalable solution that fosters long-term economic impact and empowerment across the continent.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

Our main potential competitors include traditional educational institutions offering entrepreneurship programs, local business incubators, and international platforms focusing on startup support in emerging markets. What sets Campus VC apart is our tailored approach combining practical business education with micro-funding specifically designed for students. Unlike many educational institutions that may offer theoretical knowledge without hands-on support, Campus VC provides a digital sandbox that bridges the gap between learning and real-world application. This hands-on approach is supplemented by mentorship from industry experts and a strong emphasis on sustainability and local economic development. Additionally, our commitment to respecting regional values and cultures ensures that our initiatives are culturally sensitive and locally relevant, fostering deeper community engagement and trust.

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

At Campus VC, we prioritize gender equality by actively involving women in decision-making roles within our organization. I strongly advocate for women's participation and leadership, ensuring their voices are heard and respected in shaping our initiatives. In my current role, I collaborate closely with female colleagues, valuing their insights and contributions to drive our mission forward. Whenever I get speaking engagements, I consistently advocate for women's rights and empowerment in entrepreneurship. By promoting inclusivity and supporting women in leadership positions, I aim to create a more equitable environment where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive and contribute effectively to our shared goals at Campus VC and beyond.