South Africa - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Chow Now: Commission-free food delivery at in-store prices, supporting local restaurants & creating bike driver jobs

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Chow Now is a food delivery platform connecting customers with local restaurants and takeaways in Durban, South Africa. Our mission is to support the local food industry while providing customers with a convenient and affordable way to enjoy their favorite foods. By charging 0% commission fees to restaurants, we ensure that customers pay in-store prices, making us a competitive and attractive option. We generate revenue through targeted advertising on our app and push notifications. Our platform also prioritizes creating jobs for local bike drivers, promoting sustainable and efficient delivery methods. By cutting out high commission fees, we help restaurants increase sales and maintain profit margins, ultimately supporting the local economy.

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

High commission fees (up to 30%) charged by food delivery apps are hurting local restaurants, reducing their profit margins and increasing prices for customers. Chow Now solves this by charging 0% commission fees, allowing restaurants to maintain their profit margins and customers to enjoy in-store prices, while creating jobs for local bike drivers and promoting sustainable delivery methods.

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

Chow Now offers: - Zero setup fees: Restaurants can join Chow Now without any initial investment. - Marketing support: Chow Now assists restaurants in promoting their offerings to attract more customers. - Customized ordering platform: Restaurants can tailor their online ordering system to suit their brand and preferences. - Analytics dashboard: Access to data insights helps restaurants make informed decisions to optimize their operations. - Customer support: Chow Now provides ongoing assistance to both restaurants and customers for a seamless experience.

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

Chow Now serves local restaurants and takeaways, helping them increase sales and maintain profit margins. Our platform also benefits customers seeking convenient food delivery at in-store prices. Additionally, we create jobs for local bike drivers, supporting the local community and promoting sustainable delivery methods.

01.05 When was your company established?

2024-01-03

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

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.)

As the sole owner of Chow Now, Muhammad Gangat embodies a multifaceted skill set and deep industry knowledge. With a background in entrepreneurship, Muhammad brings strategic vision and leadership to the table. His expertise in technology ensures the platform's innovation and reliability, while his understanding of the restaurant industry's intricacies allows for tailored solutions to meet partners' needs. Muhammad's proficiency in marketing, finance, and operations enables him to drive growth, optimize resources, and ensure operational efficiency. As the driving force behind Chow Now, Muhammad's dedication to sustainability and job creation underscores the company's commitment to its community and partners.

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

https://chownow.co.za/

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: Technology and Food service industries.

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

By offering customers in-store prices, Chow Now ensures affordability, easing financial burdens on all consumers. This inclusive approach empowers individuals and families to save money on meals, contributing to their overall financial stability and the community's economic resilience. Additionally, Chow Now supports local restaurants with commission-free online ordering, aiding their profitability and potential expansion. Partnering with local bike drivers for deliveries creates job opportunities, particularly for those needing flexible work.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Chow Now contributes to the "Zero Hunger" goal by supporting sustainable agriculture and improving access to food. By partnering with local restaurants, we promote the consumption of locally sourced ingredients, thereby supporting local farmers and sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, our platform facilitates the efficient distribution of food, ensuring that customers have access to a variety of meals from diverse cuisines. Through our efforts to promote sustainable food systems and improve food accessibility, Chow Now plays a role in addressing hunger and promoting nutrition within our community.

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

6

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

Chow Now contributes to the "Good Health and Well-being" goal by promoting access to diverse and nutritious food options. Our platform enables customers to choose from a wide range of restaurant offerings, including healthy meal choices, thereby encouraging balanced and nutritious diets. Additionally, by supporting local restaurants, we contribute to the vibrancy of the food ecosystem, fostering a sense of community and social well-being. Through our commitment to providing access to healthy food options and supporting local businesses, Chow Now plays a role in promoting good health and well-being for individuals of all ages within our community.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

Chow Now contributes to the "Quality Education" goal indirectly by supporting local communities and businesses, which can have positive implications for education. By creating job opportunities and supporting economic growth, we contribute to the overall well-being of communities, which can indirectly support educational initiatives. Additionally, by providing access to diverse food options and supporting local culture, we contribute to a vibrant community environment that can enhance educational experiences and opportunities. While our primary focus is on food service and job creation, these indirect contributions can help foster an environment conducive to quality education.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

4

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

While Chow Now does not directly address gender equality through its core services, we are committed to fostering an inclusive work environment and promoting diversity within our team. We strive to provide equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of gender, and prioritize a culture of respect, fairness, and equal treatment. Additionally, by supporting local businesses and communities, we indirectly contribute to economic empowerment, which can positively impact gender equality by providing opportunities for women entrepreneurs and workers. While our primary focus is on food service and job creation, we recognize the importance of gender equality and are committed to supporting initiatives that promote it within our sphere of influence.

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 Chow Now does not directly contribute to providing clean water and sanitation, we are mindful of our environmental impact. We implement eco-friendly practices within our operations and encourage our partners to do the same. Additionally, by promoting sustainable agriculture and local sourcing, we indirectly support water conservation efforts. While our primary focus is on food service and job creation, we recognize the importance of clean water and sanitation and strive to minimize our environmental footprint.

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

While Chow Now does not directly contribute to providing affordable and clean energy, we are committed to reducing our environmental impact and promoting sustainability. We implement energy-efficient practices within our operations and encourage our partners to do the same. Additionally, by facilitating local food sourcing and reducing transportation emissions through efficient delivery methods, we indirectly contribute to reducing energy consumption and promoting cleaner energy alternatives. While our primary focus is on food service and job creation, we recognize the importance of affordable and clean energy and strive to support initiatives that align with these goals.

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

Chow Now contributes significantly to decent work and economic growth by creating job opportunities for local bike drivers and supporting small businesses. Our platform enables restaurants to increase sales without high commission fees, thus promoting economic growth and sustainability. Additionally, by providing a commission-free online ordering system, we empower restaurants to retain higher profit margins, contributing to the creation of more stable and prosperous working environments. Through our commitment to fostering full and productive employment and supporting sustainable economic growth, Chow Now plays a vital role in advancing the "Decent Work and Economic Growth" goal.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

5

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Chow Now contributes to industry innovation and infrastructure by providing a technologically advanced platform for online food ordering. Our innovative approach fosters efficiency in restaurant operations and delivery logistics, contributing to the development of resilient infrastructure. Additionally, by supporting local businesses and promoting sustainable practices, we encourage inclusive and sustainable industrialization. Through continuous technological advancements and our commitment to fostering innovation within the food service industry, Chow Now plays a role in driving progress towards the "Industry Innovation and Infrastructure" goal.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

4

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

While Chow Now does not directly address reducing inequalities as its primary focus, our platform indirectly contributes to this goal by providing opportunities for small and independent restaurants to compete in the digital marketplace. By offering a commission-free online ordering system, we empower these businesses to retain higher profit margins, potentially reducing economic disparities within the restaurant industry. Additionally, by partnering with local bike drivers for delivery, we create job opportunities, particularly for individuals seeking flexible employment, which can help alleviate income inequalities. While our primary focus is on food service and job creation, we recognize the importance of reducing inequalities and strive to support initiatives that promote fairness and inclusivity within our community.

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

Chow Now contributes significantly to sustainable cities and communities by fostering local economic growth, promoting environmental sustainability, and enhancing community resilience. Through our platform, we support local restaurants, thereby contributing to the vibrancy and inclusivity of urban areas. By facilitating the use of sustainable delivery methods and promoting eco-friendly practices, we reduce environmental impact and help build more resilient communities. Additionally, our commitment to supporting local businesses and job creation fosters a sense of community cohesion and social well-being. Through these efforts, Chow Now plays a crucial role in making cities and human settlements more inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

Chow Now promotes responsible consumption and production by encouraging sustainable practices throughout our operations. We facilitate the use of locally sourced ingredients by partnering with nearby restaurants, reducing carbon emissions associated with transportation and supporting local farmers. Additionally, our platform promotes efficient use of resources by reducing food waste through optimized inventory management and order tracking. By advocating for sustainable practices and fostering a circular economy within the food service industry, Chow Now contributes to the goal of responsible consumption and production, ensuring the long-term well-being of both communities and the environment.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

6

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Chow Now contributes to climate action by promoting sustainable practices within the food service industry. Through our platform, we encourage the use of eco-friendly packaging materials and advocate for reduced carbon emissions through efficient delivery methods. Additionally, by facilitating local sourcing and supporting small-scale producers, we minimize the environmental impact associated with long-distance transportation and promote biodiversity. Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond operations, as we actively engage with partners and customers to raise awareness about the importance of combating climate change. Through these efforts, Chow Now plays a role in addressing the urgent need for climate action and reducing the environmental footprint of the food service sector.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

2

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

As a land-based platform focusing on food delivery, Chow Now does not have a direct impact on marine ecosystems. While we prioritize sustainability in our operations and advocate for responsible consumption, our contributions to the preservation of life below water are limited. However, we recognize the interconnectedness of all ecosystems and are committed to exploring opportunities to minimize our environmental footprint and support initiatives aimed at conserving marine resources in the future.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

2

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

As a food delivery platform operating primarily in urban environments, Chow Now's direct impact on terrestrial ecosystems is limited. However, we recognize the importance of land conservation and biodiversity preservation for long-term sustainability. While our core focus is on promoting local businesses and sustainable practices within the food industry, we are committed to minimizing our environmental footprint wherever possible. This includes advocating for responsible sourcing practices and reducing waste generation throughout our operations. Additionally, we are open to exploring partnerships and initiatives that support the protection and restoration of terrestrial ecosystems in the future.

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

2

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Chow Now's primary focus is on facilitating food delivery and supporting local restaurants, and while we don't directly contribute to promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions, we indirectly support these goals. By fostering economic growth and job creation, we contribute to the stability of communities and provide opportunities for individuals. Additionally, by operating within legal frameworks and promoting ethical business practices, we uphold accountability and integrity within our operations. While our impact in this area may be modest compared to other sectors, we recognize the importance of peaceful and inclusive societies and strive to align our actions with these principles.

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Chow Now collaborates with various stakeholders including local restaurants, delivery partners, and community organizations, fostering partnerships that contribute to sustainable development. By working closely with these entities, we collectively strive to address challenges and leverage opportunities for positive impact. Additionally, our platform serves as a bridge between consumers and local businesses, promoting community engagement and supporting the local economy. While our contributions may be modest in the broader context of global partnerships, our commitment to collaboration and mutual benefit underscores our dedication to advancing sustainable development goals.

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

2

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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

Chow Now's platform introduces a novel approach to food delivery by prioritizing local sourcing, sustainable practices, and commission-free transactions. Unlike traditional food delivery services, we empower both restaurants and customers by offering in-store prices, thereby eliminating the common issue of price inflation. Additionally, our focus on supporting local businesses and promoting eco-friendly delivery methods sets us apart in the market. This innovative model not only addresses unmet needs in the food delivery industry but also contributes to the sustainability and vitality of local communities.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Chow Now's main potential competitors include traditional food delivery platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash. However, what sets us apart is our commitment to sustainability, local sourcing, and empowering both restaurants and customers. Unlike our competitors, we offer commission-free transactions, enabling restaurants to retain higher profit margins and customers to enjoy in-store prices. Additionally, our focus on eco-friendly delivery methods and supporting local businesses distinguishes us in the market, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and those who prioritize supporting their communities.

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

Yes, I am initiating actions within my community to promote entrepreneurship and support small business growth. Through my consulting work, I provide guidance and support to entrepreneurs and small business owners, helping them to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. While my consulting work is not specifically focused on gender, I am committed to promoting equality and empowerment through my work, and I believe that entrepreneurship and economic empowerment are essential for building stronger, more resilient communities.