South Africa - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

"RISE" is a beacon of hope. Unlock potential within us, empowers people from every corner of society to share their talents and skills with the world. "Rise" helps: transform passion into purpose, earn vital resources & support, break various barriers.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Rise, a innovative talent show, offers a unique opportunity for participants to showcase their skills while supporting a noble cause. Participants pay a fee to enter, with top three winners receiving both a cash prize and a voucher, while all participants receive a voucher redeemable for essential items at a specific store. Vouchers are personalized, non-transferable, and cannot be exchanged for cash. The partner store must offer discounts, donate food or funds to support low-to-moderate income individuals with meals. Vouchers and prizes are funded by ticket and door sales, creating a sustainable cycle of support. By participating, talents not only compete for recognition but also contribute to a social impact initiative, fostering a sense of community and purpose.

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

The problem(s): A range of societal challenges, including poverty, substance abuse, and economic disparities, through innovative initiatives and community engagement, with the ultimate goal of fostering a more equitable and supportive environment for all. "Rise" is a talent show with a mission to combat poverty, alcohol and drug abuse, and financial gap. By promoting talent development and community support, "Rise" tackles social issues, fostering a culture of empowerment and positive outlets. This is a sustainable cycle of support. "Rise" aims to uplift and inspire, bridging the financial gap and promoting a brighter future.

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

The major benefits of using Rise, include: - Empowerment through talent development - Inclusive opportunities for all - Addressing social issues like poverty, alcohol, and drug abuse - Fostering a culture of Hope, Love, Peace, and Joy - Access to essential items for low-to-moderate income individuals - Community building and support - Positive outlets for expression and creativity - Bridging the financial gap - Encouraging community engagement and participation - Providing a platform for skill development and showcase - Promoting a sense of purpose and fulfillment By participating in Rise, individuals can gain confidence, develop their talents, and become part of a supportive community. The project offers a unique opportunity for personal growth, social impact, and community building, making it a valuable and rewarding experience for all involved.

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

Aspiring talents, emerging artists, and individuals from low-to-moderate income backgrounds seeking a platform to showcase their skills and access essential items. This includes individuals affected by poverty, alcohol, and drug abuse, as well as those seeking a supportive community and positive outlets for expression. Rise serves individuals from diverse backgrounds, ages, and skill levels, providing an inclusive and empowering environment for personal growth, talent development, and social impact.

01.05 When was your company established?

2023-04-01

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

No

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

0

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.)

N/A

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

https://www.facebook.com/ashwinreagen.ontong

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: Entertainment

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

- Provide vouchers for essential items to low-to-moderate income individuals - Offering cash prizes to top talent show winners - Creating a platform for skill development and talent showcase, potentially generating income opportunities - Fostering a supportive community, reducing social isolation and promoting economic mobility - Addressing poverty-related issues like alcohol and drug abuse through talent development and positive outlets.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

- Providing vouchers for essential items, including food and groceries, to low-to-moderate income individuals - Supporting access to nutritious food and meals for those in need - Addressing poverty-related issues, like alcohol and drug abuse, which can lead to food insecurity - Fostering a supportive community, reducing social isolation and promoting economic mobility, which can also impact food security - Offering a platform for skill development and talent showcase, potentially generating income opportunities to purchase food and improve food security

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

- By addressing alcohol and drug abuse, which can lead to health problems, through talent development and positive outlets - Providing access to essential items, including healthcare-related necessities, through vouchers - Fostering a supportive community, reducing social isolation, which can positively impact mental health - Promoting positive outlets for expression and creativity, which can improve mental well-being - Encouraging skill development and talent showcase, potentially reducing stress and improving self-esteem.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

A platform for skill development and talent showcase, promoting creative expression and learning. Rise offers opportunities for individuals to develop new skills, build confidence, and showcase their talents, fostering personal growth and development. By encouraging participation and providing access to resources, Rise supports the development of inclusive and quality education, promoting lifelong learning and empowerment for all.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Providing an inclusive platform for talent development, regardless of gender, age, or background. Rise promotes equal opportunities for all, addressing gender disparities and encouraging participation from underrepresented groups. By fostering a supportive community and challenging stereotypes, Rise contributes to gender equality, empowering women and girls to showcase their talents and reach their full potential.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

5

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

Provides access to essential items, including water and sanitation facilities, through vouchers and community resources. Rise promotes hygiene and sanitation education, addressing health issues related to water scarcity. By supporting low-to-moderate income individuals, Rise contributes to ensuring universal access to clean water and sanitation, fostering a healthy and sustainable community.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

4

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

Promotes energy-efficient practices and renewable energy sources through community engagement and education. Rise encourages sustainable living, reducing energy consumption and carbon footprint. By supporting low-to-moderate income individuals, Rise contributes to ensuring access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for all, fostering a clean energy future.

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

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

By encouraging innovation and creativity through talent development and showcase, fostering entrepreneurship and sustainable infrastructure. Rise promotes access to resources and education, supporting the development of sustainable industries and infrastructure, and driving economic growth and job creation. By addressing social and economic inequalities, Rise contributes to building resilient and sustainable infrastructure for all.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

By addressing social, economic, and cultural inequalities through talent development and showcase, promoting inclusivity and diversity. Rise provides access to resources and opportunities, reducing barriers and fostering equal participation. By empowering marginalized groups and addressing discrimination, Rise contributes to reducing income and social inequalities, promoting human rights and dignity for all.

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

By fostering a sense of community and social connection, promoting inclusive and sustainable urban development. Rise encourages talent development and showcase, supporting local economies and cultural diversity. By addressing social and economic inequalities, Rise contributes to building safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities, ensuring access to green spaces, transportation, and community resources for all.

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

We encouraging sustainable practices and responsible consumption through education and community engagement. Rise promotes the reuse and recycling of resources, reducing waste and supporting eco-friendly practices. By fostering a culture of sustainability and minimalism, Rise contributes to achieving efficient use of resources, reducing emissions, and promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

Promoting ocean conservation and sustainable practices, reducing marine pollution and supporting marine ecosystems. Rise encourages education and community engagement on ocean literacy, supports sustainable fishing and aquaculture practices, and advocates for ocean conservation efforts. By fostering a culture of ocean stewardship, Rise contributes to protecting marine biodiversity, reducing ocean acidification, and ensuring the sustainable use of ocean resources.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

Promotes sustainable land use, reforestation, and conservation practices, reducing deforestation and habitat destruction. Rise encourages education and community engagement on environmental stewardship, supports sustainable agriculture and forestry practices, and advocates for the protection of biodiversity and ecosystems. By fostering a culture of sustainability and environmental responsibility, Rise contributes to protecting life on land, promoting ecosystem services, and ensuring a healthy and resilient planet.

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

Promoting peaceful conflict resolution, access to justice, and strong institutional frameworks. Rise encourages community engagement, education, and advocacy for human rights, rule of law, and good governance. By fostering a culture of peace, justice, and accountability, Rise contributes to reducing violence, promoting inclusive and participatory decision-making, and ensuring equal access to justice for all.

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Rise aims to partner with organizations sharing its vision, leveraging collective expertise and resources to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Partners include: - Business associations - NGOs - Government agencies - Educational institutions - Corporates Together, they: - Empower female entrepreneurs - Promote sustainable business practices - Support climate action - Advance gender equality - Foster economic growth By collaborating, Rise and its partners can: - Amplify impact - Share knowledge and expertise - Mobilize resources - Drive systemic change - Achieve the SDGs Rise's partnerships fuel collective progress, creating a better future for all.

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

6

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

6

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

6

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

7 - Strongly Agree

06.08 Justification for my startup

1. Combines entrepreneurship, sustainability, and women's empowerment in a holistic platform. 2. Leverages AI and technology to provide personalized support and resources. 3. Offers a virtual mentorship and networking platform, connecting female entrepreneurs globally. 4. Provides access to innovative funding and investment opportunities. 5. Tracks and measures sustainable development impact, ensuring tangible results. 6. Fosters a collaborative community, addressing social and environmental challenges. 7. Addresses the gender gap in entrepreneurship, promoting diversity and inclusion. Rise's innovative approach sets it apart from existing solutions, making it a pioneering initiative in the entrepreneurship and sustainability space.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Competitive Analysis: *Competitors: SAEN, TEN, WEN, SEN #Strengths & Weaknesses: •South Africa Entrepreneurship Network: Established brand, wide reach (Limited focus on sustainability, male-dominated) •The Entrepreneurial Network: Strong networking events (Limited online presence, no specific focus) •Woman Etrepreneurial Network: Dedicated to women's empowerment (Limited resources, no focus on sustainability or tech) •Sustainable Entrepreneurship Network: Emphasis on sustainability (Limited scope, no specific focus on women or tech) •Rise's Advantage: Holistic approach (entrepreneurship, sustainability, women's empowerment) Technology integration (AI, innovation) Personalized support (tailored guidance, resources) Inclusive focus (diversity, equity, inclusion) Rise stands out in South Africa with its unique blend of entrepreneurship, sustainability, and women's empowerment, leveraging technology and personalized support to create a comprehensive and inclusive platform

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

Yes, we are initiating actions to promote the role of female entrepreneurs in communities. By supporting and empowering women-led businesses and initiatives: - Encouraging gender equality and inclusivity - Providing resources and opportunities for female entrepreneurs - Celebrating and showcasing women's achievements and successes - Creating a supportive network and community for women in business - Addressing gender gaps and challenges in entrepreneurship - Inspiring and mentoring future generations of female leaders My efforts will and are contributing to a more inclusive and equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem, promoting positive change and sustainable development in communities.