Ghana - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Paylate, led by me, Bertrand Sambo, revolutionizes purchasing with credit services and direct buying from global stores. Choose outright payment or our credit service for genuine products, with reliable delivery by PayMensa.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

PayMensa embodies a transformative vision in consumer finance and access to global products. Our platform empowers individuals by providing flexible credit services and facilitating direct purchasing from global brands. We break down barriers to economic participation, offering pathways to ownership from small household items to major investments like weddings or land acquisitions. By establishing direct connections with brands, we ensure transparency and authenticity in every transaction. We prioritize customer satisfaction with reliable delivery, ensuring products reach our customers promptly and securely. Paylate is more than a financial platform; it is a catalyst for economic empowerment and access to global opportunities, leveling the playing field for individuals across Africa.

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

PayMensa aims to address two main problems: limited access to credit and challenges in purchasing authentic products from global brands in African countries. We provide flexible credit services, empowering individuals to make purchases based on future earning potential. Additionally, we facilitate direct purchasing from global brands, eliminating the need for intermediaries and ensuring transparency and authenticity in transactions.

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

One of the primary benefits of PayMensa is its promotion of financial inclusion. Through our flexible credit services, individuals who may not have immediate access to funds can still make purchases based on their future earning potential. This breaks down significant barriers to economic participation and empowers individuals to pursue their aspirations. Furthermore, PayMensa ensures access to authentic products from global brands. In regions where physical stores are lacking, individuals often resort to purchasing replicas or dealing with unreliable third-party sellers. PayMensa eliminates this risk by establishing direct connections with global brands, ensuring transparency and authenticity in every transaction. Convenience and efficiency are also paramount in the Paylate experience. Our platform offers a seamless shopping experience with user-friendly interfaces, allowing customers to browse and purchase products with ease

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

PayMensa serves consumers needing credit for purchases, global brand enthusiasts seeking authentic products, local businesses expanding reach, and economic development initiatives promoting financial inclusion in Africa.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2021-08-12

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.)

Ishaak Yussif Miyasir is an expert in marketing and programming with a BSc in Electrical Engineering from KNUST, graduated in 2023. He has seven years of experience working on various projects, demonstrating a strong proficiency in both technical and marketing domains. Ishaak competed in KNUST's innovative challenges, showcasing his problem-solving skills and innovative thinking. His technical skills include proficiency in Python, MATLAB, and other programming languages. In marketing, he has successfully developed and executed digital marketing strategies, utilizing SEO, social media marketing, and data analytics to drive project success. At PayMensa, Ishaak plays a crucial role in driving the marketing strategy and technical development. His ability to bridge technical and marketing expertise, combined with his strong analytical skills and creative problem-solving, make him an invaluable partner for our project here at PayMensa.

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

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

g) Financial services

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

My project, PayMensa, significantly contributes to the No Poverty goal (SDG 1) by providing access to credit services. Through our platform, individuals who may not have immediate access to funds can still make purchases based on their future earning potential. By offering flexible credit options, we empower individuals to overcome financial constraints and improve their quality of life, ultimately contributing to the goal of ending poverty in all its forms everywhere.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

PayMensa contributes to the Zero Hunger goal (SDG 2) by indirectly supporting sustainable agriculture through our promotion of economic empowerment. By providing access to credit services, individuals can invest in agricultural activities, such as farming or livestock rearing, which in turn can increase food production and contribute to food security. Additionally, our platform facilitates access to authentic products, including nutritious food items, from global brands, thereby promoting improved nutrition among consumers.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

PayMensa contributes to the Good Health and Well-being goal (SDG 3) by promoting financial stability, which is closely linked to overall well-being. By providing access to credit services, individuals can better afford essential healthcare expenses, including medical treatment, medications, and preventive care. Additionally, our platform facilitates access to authentic products, including health and wellness items, from global brands, thereby promoting improved physical and mental health among consumers.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

PayMensa could potentially contribute to the Quality Education goal (SDG 4) in several ways. For example, we could collaborate with educational institutions to offer credit-based payment options for tuition fees, thus ensuring that more individuals have access to quality education. Additionally, we could partner with publishers or online learning platforms to provide affordable access to educational materials and courses, promoting lifelong learning opportunities. By empowering individuals to invest in their education and skill development, PayMensa contributes to the overall goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

PayMensa is deeply committed to fostering Gender Equality (SDG 5) both internally and externally. Our platform empowers women economically by providing equal access to credit services, enabling them to pursue entrepreneurship, education, and personal development. Additionally, within our workforce, we prioritize gender diversity by actively seeking to hire and promote women across all levels of our organization. By creating an inclusive and equitable workplace where diverse perspectives flourish, Paylate not only drives progress towards gender equality within our company but also sets a precedent for the broader business community to follow, ultimately catalyzing positive societal change.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

3

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

PayMensa indirectly contributes to the Clean Water and Sanitation goal (SDG 6) by promoting economic empowerment, which can lead to investments in water and sanitation infrastructure. As individuals and communities gain access to credit services and economic opportunities through PayMensa, they may allocate resources towards improving water and sanitation facilities in their areas. Additionally, PayMensa remains open to exploring potential partnerships or initiatives in the future aimed at directly supporting clean water and sanitation efforts, furthering our commitment to sustainable development.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

3

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

PayMensa indirectly contributes to the Affordable and Clean Energy goal (SDG 7) by promoting economic empowerment, which can lead to investments in renewable energy infrastructure. As individuals and communities gain access to credit services and economic opportunities through PayMensa, they may choose to invest in renewable energy solutions such as solar panels or energy-efficient appliances. Additionally, PayMensa remains open to exploring potential partnerships or initiatives in the future aimed at directly supporting the adoption of affordable and clean energy technologies.

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

PayMensa strongly contributes to the Decent Work and Economic Growth goal (SDG 8) by providing opportunities for economic empowerment and fostering entrepreneurship. Through our platform, individuals can access credit services to start or grow their businesses, thereby creating employment opportunities for themselves and others. Additionally, PayMensa promotes financial inclusion by providing access to credit services, which allows individuals to pursue decent work and participate fully in the economy. By facilitating economic growth and creating pathways to decent work, PayMensa plays a vital role in promoting sustainable and inclusive economic development.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

PayMensa contributes significantly to the Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure goal (SDG 9) by fostering innovation in financial services and promoting inclusive access to economic infrastructure. Our platform utilizes innovative technology to provide accessible credit services, thus contributing to the development of resilient financial infrastructure. Additionally, PayMensa facilitates access to global products and services, promoting inclusive participation in the digital economy and fostering innovation in e-commerce. By bridging gaps in financial access and promoting digital inclusion, PayMensa contributes to building resilient infrastructure and fostering inclusive and sustainable industrialization.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

PayMensa strongly contributes to the Reduced Inequalities goal (SDG 10) by promoting financial inclusion and economic empowerment. Our platform provides equal access to credit services, regardless of gender, socioeconomic status, or geographic location, thereby reducing disparities in access to financial resources. Additionally, by facilitating access to authentic global products and services, PayMensa helps bridge the gap between regions with limited access to certain goods and services, reducing inequalities within and among countries. Through these initiatives, PayMensa strives to create a more equitable and inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

5

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

PayMensa contributes significantly to the Sustainable Cities and Communities goal (SDG 11) by promoting economic empowerment and access to essential goods and services. Through our platform, individuals in urban and rural areas alike can access credit services, enabling them to invest in their communities and contribute to local economic development. Additionally, by facilitating access to authentic global products and services, PayMensa helps create more vibrant and inclusive communities where residents have access to a wider range of goods and services. By empowering individuals to improve their communities and fostering economic development, PayMensa plays a crucial role in building more sustainable and resilient cities and human settlements.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

PayMensa contributes significantly to the Sustainable Cities and Communities goal (SDG 11) by promoting economic empowerment and access to essential goods and services. Through our platform, individuals in urban and rural areas alike can access credit services, enabling them to invest in their communities and contribute to local economic development. Additionally, by facilitating access to authentic global products and services, PayMensa helps create more vibrant and inclusive communities where residents have access to a wider range of goods and services. By empowering individuals to improve their communities and fostering economic development, PayMensa plays a crucial role in building more sustainable and resilient cities and human settlements.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

6

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

PayMensa indirectly contributes to the Climate Action goal (SDG 13) by promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns. Through our platform, individuals can access authentic global products and services, including eco-friendly and sustainable options. By making these products more accessible, PayMensa encourages environmentally conscious purchasing decisions, which can lead to reduced carbon emissions and resource consumption. Additionally, PayMensa remains open to exploring potential partnerships or initiatives in the future aimed at directly supporting climate action efforts, furthering our commitment to sustainability.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

While PayMensa's primary focus is on providing financial services and facilitating access to global products, which does not directly impact marine conservation or the sustainable use of marine resources, we recognize the importance of this goal. In the future, we are open to exploring partnerships and initiatives that could contribute to environmental sustainability, including efforts to protect life below water.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

5

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

PayMensa indirectly contributes to the Life on Land goal (SDG 15) by promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns. Through our platform, individuals can access authentic global products and services, including eco-friendly and sustainably sourced options. By making these products more accessible, Paylate encourages environmentally conscious purchasing decisions, which can contribute to the protection and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. Additionally, PayMensa remains open to exploring potential partnerships or initiatives in the future aimed at directly supporting conservation efforts and biodiversity protection.

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

6

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

PayMensa contributes to the Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions goal (SDG 16) by promoting financial inclusion and access to justice. Through our platform, individuals can access credit services, enabling them to pursue legal remedies and access justice for their rights. Additionally, by fostering economic empowerment and providing opportunities for entrepreneurship, PayMensa contributes to building strong and inclusive institutions at the community level. By promoting peaceful and inclusive societies through economic empowerment and access to justice, PayMensa plays a role in advancing this important goal.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

PayMensa contributes to the Partnerships for the Goal (SDG 17) by fostering collaboration and cooperation between various stakeholders in the pursuit of sustainable development. We actively seek partnerships with other organizations, including financial institutions, businesses, and governmental agencies, to enhance the reach and impact of our initiatives. By working together with diverse partners, PayMensa strengthens the means of implementation for sustainable development and revitalizes the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development. Through these partnerships, we aim to leverage collective expertise and resources to address complex challenges and achieve our shared goals for a more sustainable future.

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

3

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.

6

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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

Our project is innovative by integrating credit services with online shopping, tailored for African users. We democratize credit access, overcoming traditional barriers. Partnering with trusted stores ensures quality. We prioritize transparency, offering clear terms and fees. Our platform's convenience saves time. Leveraging technology, we personalize offers and streamline the user experience. Overall, we're revolutionizing access to credit and shopping, empowering individuals and fostering economic growth.

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

Our main potential competitors encompass traditional banks, online lenders, e-commerce platforms, including Afterpay, and global fintech firms. However, what sets us apart is our singular focus on Africa, serving all 52 countries on the continent. Unlike others starting in Silicon Valley or targeting major markets, we're proudly African, understanding the diverse cultures and needs intimately. This localized approach allows us to offer tailored services effectively. Moreover, our emphasis on inclusivity, affordability, and accessibility distinguishes us, ensuring we remain the preferred choice for credit and shopping solutions in Africa. Additionally, for credit services, we boast a wider range of products than our competitors, further enhancing our appeal and utility to our customers.

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

Yes, we are setting up teams in various universities and tertiary institutions across the country to encourage female entrepreneurship, break stereotypes, and organize competitions. In addition to selecting winners for our project, we are laying the groundwork for mentorship programs, networking events, access to resources, internships with established companies, workshops, seminars focused on entrepreneurial skills, one-on-one consultations with industry experts, and connecting participants with industry experts. We're fostering a supportive community and establishing partnerships with women-focused organizations to enhance opportunities for success.