Tanzania - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

PoaGas Limited, a Tanzanian digital platform delivering affordable, eco-friendly LPG distribution via pay-as-you-go services and smart metering systems empowering households and communities across Africa with sustainable energy solutions and cost savings.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

PoaGas Limited, a startup incorporated in Tanzania, offers affordable and eco-friendly Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) distribution services to households and communities across Africa. Our solutions include delivery, pay-as-you-go using smart meters, stock management, and ordering for distributors, as well as energy savings and financing options. Our mission is to reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy security by promoting LPG as a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels. We partner with a mobile money service provider, Vodacom via MPESA, to ensure our services are widely accessible. Our target market consists of households and communities seeking convenient and cost-effective gas access. We cater to both tech-savvy customers who utilize mobile apps and online platforms, and those who prefer legacy technologies like USSD. PoaGas improves energy access and sustainability across Africa by leveraging technology and strategic partnerships to deliver innovative, user-friendly solutions

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

PoaGAS is transforming LPG distribution across Tanzania and Africa with an innovative digital platform. Currently, only 5% of the population has access to LPG due to limited distribution zones and infrastructure. Our platform empowers small-scale distributors to fulfill orders efficiently using motorcycles, delivering gas directly to customers on demand. This decentralized approach reduces delivery costs and expands access to clean energy. Customers can easily order gas via smartphones or feature phones, paying based on usage without upfront costs. Gas wallets facilitate budgeting by accumulating credits for future purchases. Our platform supports small dealers by enabling direct orders and offering growth opportunities through the Finance for Energy program. PoaGAS acts as a loan guarantor, helping dealers expand their businesses. This integrated strategy increases LPG accessibility, fosters economic empowerment and promotes sustainable energy practices in underserved communities.

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

PoaGAS innovative platform offers significant benefits, such as: Accessibility: Extends LPG access to remote areas via small-scale distributors. Cost Efficiency: Lowers distribution costs, translating to affordable pricing for consumers. Convenience: Orders via smartphones or feature phones, pay-as-you-go model, and gas wallets for flexible payment. Health and Safety: Reduces indoor air pollution, promoting better respiratory health. Economic Empowerment: Supports small dealers with direct orders and growth opportunities. Environmental Impact: Promotes cleaner energy, reducing deforestation and environmental degradation.

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

We intend to serve; Individual Customers LPG dealers serving end user LPG Distributors serving small dealers Households Small Restaurants Apartments Shops/ Offices Schools Universities Hotels Restaurants Prisons Industries Street Gas cylinder resellers

01.05 When was your company established?

2022-03-06

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

3

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

2

01.09 Please describe the profile of the other owners within your startup (skills, experience, etc.)

Edith Gerald Edith Gerald is a highly motivated and ambitious administrator with over 10 years of experience in administration, management, and finance. She is proficient in modern administrative tools and possesses strong computer skills. Edith holds an MBA in Corporate Management. Emmanuel Mnzava Emmanuel Mnzava is an experienced software developer with a proven track record in the information technology and services industry. His technical expertise includes Python, Oracle Database, PHP, C++, and jQuery. Emmanuel is a skilled professional with a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Engineering. Lyamba Mosses Linyuli Lyamba Mosses Linyuli is a confident Commercial Lead specializing in portfolio strategy and competitor analysis across various sectors. He excels in communication and possesses strong leadership skills. Lyamba's additional proficiencies include Commercial Strategy Implementation, Sales and Marketing, Forecasting, Financial Acumen, and International Business. He holds a Master's

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

https://www.instagram.com/poagas_tz/ , https://www.linkedin.com/company/poa-gas/, www.poagas.co.tz

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

The adoption of the innovative POAGAS LPG distribution platform contributes significantly to achieving UN SDG 1: No Poverty. It reduces household expenditure on fuel, freeing up income for essential needs like education and healthcare. LPG distribution networks create jobs, boosting local economies. Its cleaner combustion reduces indoor air pollution, benefiting health and lowering medical costs. Time saved from collecting and preparing traditional fuels can be redirected to income-generating activities. Accessibility of LPG promotes sustainable development by preserving natural resources. Overall, our innovative platform enhances economic opportunities, improves health outcomes, and supports poverty alleviation efforts globally.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

The adoption of our solution contributes to achieving Zero Hunger through Efficient Cooking: Accessibility of affordable LPG allows faster and more efficient cooking, saving time and energy for food preparation. Improved Food Security: Reliable and affordable LPG access through our platform ensures consistent cooking fuel supply, supporting meal planning and reducing dependence on weather-dependent fuels. Health Benefits: Availability of LPG to remote and underserved communities help to promote health through cleaner combustion, reduction of indoor air pollution and associated respiratory illnesses, particularly among women and children. Sustainable Agriculture: Fostering a wide LPG adoption reduces pressure on local forests for fuelwood, preserving ecosystems and supporting resilient agricultural practices. Economic Impact: Lower fuel costs from using LPG through our platform free up income for food, education, and healthcare, improving livelihoods and local economies.

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

The use of our innovative platform significantly advances UN Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being by lowering the cost of the clean fuel source that can be used by low income communities, in turn leading to improving indoor air quality through cleaner combustion, reducing respiratory diseases such as pneumonia and Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Access to affordable or pay-as-you-go LPG fuel promotes healthier home environments, mitigating risks associated with indoor air pollution from traditional biomass fuels. This shift enhances productivity, particularly among women and children, by reducing illness-related absences. Additionally, LPG supports environmental health by lowering emissions and preserving natural resources, contributing to sustainable development and improved societal well-being.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

The use of our innovative LPG distribution platform promotes UN Goal 5: Gender Equality by providing clean cooking fuel that eases cooking burdens for women and girls, freeing time for education and economic activities. Its cleaner combustion improves indoor air quality, reducing health risks and enabling greater participation in community life. Easy access to LPG enhances safety by eliminating risks associated with traditional fuel collection. With more time and improved health, girls attend school regularly, empowering them with education and skills. Economic benefits from lower fuel costs empower women economically, fostering decision-making and autonomy. Promoting LPG's sustainable use preserves natural resources, supporting long-term gender equality efforts globally.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Women and girls, who are primarily responsible for cooking in many households, benefit from cleaner and more efficient cooking technologies. This reduces the time spent on fuel gathering and cooking, enabling them to pursue education, work, or other productive activities.

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

PoaGAS platform contributes to UN Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation by promoting LPG use over biomass fuels. This reduces deforestation, preserving water sources and watershed health. Cleaner combustion improves indoor air quality, benefiting respiratory health and reducing waterborne diseases. Time saved from collecting fuel allows more focus on accessing clean water and maintaining sanitation. By mitigating environmental degradation and promoting community health, PoaGAS supports sustainable water management and sanitation practices, aligning with global efforts for clean water and sanitation for all.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

PoaGAS innovative platform contributes to UN Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy by promoting LPG as a cleaner alternative to biomass fuels. This initiative improves energy access through innovative distribution and payment methods, particularly benefiting underserved communities. By reducing air pollution, conserving natural resources, and lowering household energy costs, PoaGAS supports sustainable energy practices and economic empowerment. Enhanced health outcomes from cleaner energy use further underscore its contribution to achieving affordable and clean energy access for all.

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

5

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

PoaGAS platform supports UN Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by creating local jobs through small-scale distributors and dealers. It empowers entrepreneurs with financial backing for business expansion. Affordable LPG access reduces household energy costs, boosting economic resilience. Skills development in logistics and sales enhances employability. Promoting LPG over biomass fuels fosters sustainable practices, contributing to long-term economic stability and inclusive growth in Tanzania and Africa.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

PoaGAS innovative platform contributes to UN Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure by innovating LPG distribution through a digital platform. This approach enhances efficiency, expands access to clean energy in underserved areas, and promotes technological advancement in energy solutions. Supporting small-scale distributors stimulates entrepreneurship and local economies, while reducing environmental impact through the adoption of cleaner fuels fosters sustainable infrastructure development. Collaborations with stakeholders strengthen networks, advancing infrastructure for lasting economic and environmental benefits.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

5

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

PoaGAS innovative solution supports UN Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities by enhancing access to affordable and clean LPG. This reduces disparities in energy access, benefiting low-income households and improving health. The project creates local jobs through small-scale distributors, fostering economic growth in underserved areas. By easing the burden of fuel collection, particularly for women, it promotes gender equality and empowers communities. Inclusive business practices and environmental stewardship further contribute to reducing inequalities and promoting equitable development.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

3

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

PoaGAS innovative platform contributes to UN Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by promoting LPG use over biomass fuels, improving indoor air quality and reducing deforestation. Its digital platform enhances LPG distribution in urban and remote areas, supporting economic activities and sustainable development. Access to affordable LPG builds resilience against environmental and economic shocks, fostering sustainable urban living. By advocating for cleaner energy and partnering with local stakeholders, PoaGAS promotes sustainable consumption patterns and community well-being in Tanzania and Africa.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

4

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

PoaGAS innovative LPG distribution platform supports UN Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production by promoting LPG as a cleaner alternative to biomass fuels, reducing indoor air pollution and deforestation. Its digital platform enhances supply chain efficiency, minimizing waste and optimizing resource use. By offering affordable LPG options, PoaGAS fosters sustainable consumption patterns and educates communities on environmental stewardship, contributing to responsible production practices in Tanzania and Africa.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

6

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

PoaGAS platform contributes to UN Goal 13: Climate Action by promoting LPG as a cleaner alternative to biomass fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating deforestation. Its initiatives support environmental conservation, including air quality improvement and resource preservation, crucial for climate resilience. By providing reliable and sustainable energy, PoaGAS helps communities adapt to climate challenges and raises awareness about climate impacts, fostering climate-conscious behaviors in Tanzania and Africa.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

2

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

PoaGAS platform contributes to UN Goal 13: Climate Action by promoting LPG as a cleaner alternative to biomass fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating deforestation. Its initiatives support environmental conservation, including air quality improvement and resource preservation, crucial for climate resilience. By providing reliable and sustainable energy, PoaGAS helps communities adapt to climate challenges and raises awareness about climate impacts, fostering climate-conscious behaviors in Tanzania and Africa.

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

PoaGAS innovative platform contributes to UN Goal 15: Life on Land by promoting LPG as an alternative to biomass fuels, thereby reducing deforestation rates and preserving terrestrial ecosystems. By advocating for cleaner energy and sustainable practices, the project supports biodiversity conservation and encourages responsible land management. Through community engagement and education, PoaGAS fosters awareness and stewardship of land resources, empowering local communities to participate in environmental conservation efforts in Tanzania and Africa.

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

3

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

PoaGAS innovative platform contributes to UN Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions by creating local economic opportunities through small-scale distributors. Its transparent digital platform enhances accountability in energy distribution, fostering trust and reducing corruption risks. By providing reliable and sustainable energy access, PoaGAS supports community resilience against socio-economic challenges, contributing to stability and peaceful coexistence. Collaborations with local stakeholders strengthen institutional frameworks, promoting effective governance and sustainable development in Tanzania and Africa.

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

PoaGas collaborates with partners like Vodacom Mpesa to enhance service accessibility and convenience. Strategic partnerships with local communities, governments, and NGOs strengthen efforts towards achieving 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.

4

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.

2

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.

3

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

2

06.08 Justification for my startup

The PoaGAS project stands out through: Existing Market Demand: Digital platforms are used by a number of customers to purchase gas and many more people are willing to adopt the technology, showing a clear need. PoaGAS enhances access and affordability with an innovative platform coupled with its additional financial services. New Service: Our digital platform for ordering and delivering LPG is a novel service, especially in remote areas, offering unmatched convenience and the use of USSD, which does not require the use of smart phones, relevant to low income communities. New Technology: Utilizing smart meters and mobile payments, PoaGAS offers pay-as-you-go services and real-time tracking, improving user experience and efficiency. Improved Service: By optimizing deliveries and reducing costs, PoaGAS improves traditional LPG distribution methods. Unmet Demand: PoaGAS addresses the need for affordable, clean cooking fuel in underserved communities where traditional methods fall short.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

PoaGAS main competitors are MGAS and GasFasta, The PoaGAS project stands out competitively through: Existing Market Demand: Meeting the widespread use of digital platforms for gas purchases, enhancing access and affordability. New Service: Introducing a digital platform for LPG in remote areas, offering unmatched convenience, including USSD for low-income communities. New Technology: Smart meters and mobile payments for pay-as-you-go services and real-time tracking. Improved Service: Optimizing deliveries and reducing costs to enhance traditional LPG distribution methods. Addressing Unmet Demand: Providing affordable, clean cooking fuel where traditional methods fall short. Modernization: Integrating digital solutions and smart technology for efficient, user-friendly LPG delivery.

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

As Woman, I am committed to influence other women in Tanzania to be active participants in the Tech and LPG industry. I am active member of diverse associations such as Tanzania Women in Energy, Clean Cooking Energy in for Women in Tanzania which are actively involving women in providing education and transforming their methods of cooking.