South Africa - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Empowaa is online marketplace that connects professionals with businesses and individuals, offering a wide range of professional services. Our platform assists individuals to monetise their skills or profit from their skills and talents

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Empowaa is an innovative online platform that bridges the gap between skilled freelancers, businesses and individuals in need of services. We offer a broad spectrum of professional services, from technical trades like tiling and bricklaying to personal services such as hairstyling, nail care or any services that one can think of, even running errands or finding a baby sitter. We understand that finding employment is difficult, and the number of unemployment is growing each and every day. By promoting inclusivity and reducing systemic biases, we aim to create equal opportunities for all users, driving economic growth and fostering long-term, meaningful relationships. Our mission is to combat unemployment and empower individuals by providing them with the tools and opportunities to monetise their skills and achieve financial independence. Empowaa gives individuals an opportunity to make an income, by helping them find direct and indirect jobs.

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

Empowaa addresses the challenges of unemployment, underemployment and poverty by providing a streamlined platform for freelancers, businesses and individuals to connect. The freelance economy is rapidly growing, yet many individuals struggle to find consistent work and secure payments. Our platform solves this by offering a secure, user-friendly environment where freelancers can showcase their skills, gain work experience, and receive fair compensation. Additionally, businesses often face difficulties in finding reliable, skilled professionals for their projects. Empowaa simplifies this process by offering a diverse talent pool, enabling businesses and individuals to find the right professionals quickly and efficiently. Our focus on inclusivity and reducing biases ensures that opportunities are accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or location.

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

We offer financial freedom to individuals. We believe everyone is good in something and they can monetise what they're good at. At Empowaa we offer accessibility and Convenience: Empowaa’s web and mobile applications make it easy for users to access services and opportunities anytime, anywhere. Economic Empowerment: Empowaa provides a platform for freelancers to find work, gain experience, and achieve financial independence. Inclusivity and Fairness: By reducing systemic biases and promoting a merit-based system, we ensure equal opportunities for all users. Long-term Relationships: Empowaa focuses on fostering meaningful, long-term relationships between freelancers and clients, promoting trust and repeat business. Secure Transactions: We prioritise secure payments and communications, ensuring users’ personal details and transactions are protected.

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

Our target market includes individuals seeking freelance services for personal or business needs, as well as freelancers looking to monetize their skills. We aiWe target a diverse range of professionals, including those in technical trades, personal services, and digital professions. For businesses and individuals seeking services. We are targeting both the sellers and the buyers. The Sellers, which are professionals that sell services, and we are also targeting the Buyers, which are people looking to buy or render services from our platform. Sellers (Professionals/Freelancers) • Professional individuals with skills/talent • Lean entrepreneurs • Start-ups • Independent individuals Buyers • People who require convenient services/cost effective service • Enterprises • Teams looking to stand out to quality talent and scale hiring fast • For businesses looking for a flexible talent solution that scales with them • For companies looking for a solution that fits into their talent program

01.05 When was your company established?

2023-05-03

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

No

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

2

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.)

We have two owners, which is me Mduduzi Mahlangu and Luyanda Ngcobo. I am skilled in programming, i have worked as a Web Developer, DevOps Engineer, and a Systems Developer. I am passionate about technology and building products that improves and evolves peoples life. Luyanda Ngcobo is a creative individual, self-driven, he's a graphic designer by profession and a self taught marketer and an entrepreneur.

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

https://empowaa.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

Empowaa contributes to reducing poverty by providing a platform where individuals can offer their services and earn an income. By connecting freelancers with clients, we create job opportunities that enable individuals to support themselves and their families. This economic empowerment helps lift people out of poverty and promotes financial stability. Our inclusive approach ensures that even those from marginalised communities have access to these opportunities, making a significant impact on their lives and reducing poverty on a broader scale. Additionally, Empowaa's focus on fair compensation and secure transactions ensures that freelancers are paid promptly and fairly, further supporting their economic well-being.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Empowaa indirectly contributes to the goal of zero hunger by providing economic opportunities that enable individuals to earn a living and afford basic necessities, including food. By creating a platform where people can find work and generate income, we help ensure that more families can secure their food needs. The financial stability gained through consistent freelance work helps reduce food insecurity and supports better living conditions. Moreover, by empowering individuals with the means to earn an income, we help create a ripple effect that positively impacts communities, fostering economic resilience and reducing 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

Empowaa promotes good health and well-being by offering freelancers the flexibility to work on their terms, reducing work-related stress and improving work-life balance. Economic empowerment through our platform allows individuals to afford healthcare and maintain a healthier lifestyle. Additionally, the ability to choose projects that match their skills and interests leads to higher job satisfaction, contributing positively to mental health and overall well-being. By providing a secure and supportive environment, Empowaa helps reduce the anxiety associated with job instability, further promoting the health and well-being of our users.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

Empowaa supports quality education by enabling individuals to monetize their skills and afford educational resources. By providing job opportunities, we empower freelancers to invest in their own and their children's education. Additionally, the platform promotes continuous learning and skill development, encouraging users to enhance their qualifications and stay competitive in the job market. Empowaa also plans to offer educational resources and training programs to help freelancers improve their skills, ensuring they can provide high-quality services and grow professionally. This focus on education and skill-building contributes to the overall goal of improving access to quality education.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Empowaa fosters gender equality by creating an inclusive platform where everyone, regardless of gender, has equal access to job opportunities. By reducing barriers to entry and promoting a merit-based system, we ensure that women can compete fairly and showcase their skills. The flexibility offered by freelance work also allows women to balance work and family responsibilities more effectively, promoting greater participation in the workforce. Empowaa's commitment to supporting marginalised communities includes specific initiatives aimed at empowering women, providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed in their professional endeavors.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

3

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

While Empowaa's core operations do not directly address clean water and sanitation, the economic empowerment we provide enables individuals to improve their living conditions. With increased income, freelancers can invest in better sanitation facilities and access to clean water for their households. Our broader commitment to improving quality of life indirectly supports the goal of clean water and sanitation by enhancing the economic stability and well-being of our users. Furthermore, by promoting remote work, we reduce the environmental impact associated with commuting and traditional office settings, contributing to overall sustainability efforts.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

3

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

Empowaa indirectly contributes to the goal of affordable and clean energy by promoting economic stability and enabling freelancers to invest in sustainable energy solutions. As individuals earn more through our platform, they are better positioned to afford clean energy alternatives for their homes and businesses. Additionally, by facilitating remote work, Empowaa reduces the need for commuting, thus lowering carbon emissions and supporting environmental sustainability. Our platform also plans to collaborate with organizations promoting clean energy, further advocating for environmentally friendly practices and technologies.

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

Empowaa strongly contributes to decent work and economic growth by providing a platform for freelancers to find meaningful work opportunities. We promote fair wages, secure payments, and a supportive environment for independent professionals. By connecting skilled individuals with clients, we drive economic growth and create sustainable employment opportunities. Our focus on inclusivity and reducing systemic biases ensures that a diverse range of people can benefit from the economic opportunities we provide. Additionally, Empowaa's emphasis on continuous skill development and professional growth helps freelancers enhance their capabilities and contribute more effectively to the economy.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

5

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Empowaa fosters industry innovation and infrastructure by creating a dynamic platform that leverages technology to connect freelancers and clients. Our marketplace encourages innovation by enabling freelancers to offer a wide range of services and adapt to market demands. By providing secure and efficient infrastructure for transactions and communication, we support the growth of a modern, flexible workforce that can drive industry advancements and economic development. Empowaa's commitment to continuous improvement and adoption of cutting-edge technologies ensures that our platform remains at the forefront of industry innovation.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Empowaa is dedicated to reducing inequalities by providing equal access to job opportunities for all users, regardless of their background, gender, or location. Our platform promotes meritocracy and reduces systemic biases, ensuring that everyone has a fair chance to succeed. By supporting marginalized and historically underrepresented communities, we strive to create a more inclusive and equitable job market, contributing to the overall goal of reduced inequalities. Empowaa also actively engages in initiatives that raise awareness and address the root causes of inequality, fostering a more just and inclusive society.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

Empowaa contributes to sustainable cities and communities by enabling local talent to find work within their communities, reducing the need for long commutes and supporting local economies. Our platform promotes economic stability and job creation, which are essential for sustainable urban development. By fostering a flexible and remote workforce, we also help reduce environmental impact, supporting the goal of making cities more sustainable and resilient. Empowaa's emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility ensures that all community members can benefit from the opportunities provided, enhancing overall social cohesion and sustainability.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

3

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

Empowaa contributes to sustainable cities and communities by enabling local talent to find work within their communities, reducing the need for long commutes and supporting local economies. Our platform promotes economic stability and job creation, which are essential for sustainable urban development. By fostering a flexible and remote workforce, we also help reduce environmental impact, supporting the goal of making cities more sustainable and resilient. Empowaa's emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility ensures that all community members can benefit from the opportunities provided, enhancing overall social cohesion and sustainability.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

3

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

N/A

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

N/A

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

2

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

N/A

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

7 - Strongly Agree

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Empowaa supports peace, justice, and strong institutions by promoting fair and transparent practices within our platform. We ensure that all users adhere to our nondiscrimination policies and uphold high standards of conduct. By providing equal opportunities and fostering a respectful environment, we contribute to social stability and justice. Our commitment to reducing systemic biases and supporting marginalized communities aligns with the broader goal of building inclusive and accountable institutions. Empowaa also actively engages in community outreach and advocacy efforts to promote the principles of peace and justice.

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Empowaa is committed to fostering partnerships that support sustainable development goals. By collaborating with organizations that share our mission, we amplify our impact and drive positive change. Our partnerships focus on reducing unemployment, promoting economic empowerment, and supporting inclusive growth. By working together, we can create more opportunities for individuals and contribute to the global effort to achieve sustainable development. Empowaa also seeks to collaborate with educational institutions, NGOs, and government agencies to further our mission and reach a broader audience.

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

5

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

4

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

3

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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.

6

06.08 Justification for my startup

While there are other platforms like Kandua, Upwork and Fiverr, Empowaa improves upon these by emphasising inclusivity, fair compensation, and secure transactions. Our focus on reducing systemic biases ensures a more equitable job market, allowing underrepresented groups to thrive. Our platform responds to specific demands that other services have not fully addressed, such as the need for secure communication, fair wage practices, and support for continuous professional development. By addressing these gaps, we create a more supportive and effective environment for freelancers and clients.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main competitors include platforms like Kandua, Upwork and Fiverr. However, Empowaa stands out by prioritising inclusivity, economic empowerment, and reducing systemic biases. Unlike our competitors, we offer a more personalised and supportive environment for freelancers, focusing on long-term relationships and continuous skill development. Our commitment to secure payments, privacy, and data security further differentiates us, providing users with a trustworthy and reliable platform for their professional needs. Additionally, Empowaa's emphasis on local talent and community engagement helps us create a more sustainable and socially responsible business model. Our competitors offer limited services which means they do not cater for other individuals. This is what we offer: Availability of jobs, Maximise deal flow, Flexibility and control, Access to an expansive catalogue of digital services, Access to a diverse pool of professionals, proof of quality, value for money and talent

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

Yes, Our two employees/painters at Empowaa which are females. We had a Service Level Agreement, so since we cannot afford to pay them money, we had an agreement that we will exchange our skills which is programming and graphic design then on their side they will complete some of the tasks that we assign them. They have an organisation of which focuses on early childhood development, so we assisted them with a site, and social media content,