Nigeria - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

AIKE is a mobile app service whose aims is to revolutionize how local businesses and people move and receive goods by integrating the commercial tricycle/motorcycle riders into the ride and delivery system for inclusive, safe transit in Northeast Nigeria.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

AIKE business model revolves around three key stakeholders: tricycle/motorcycle riders, local businesses and customers. Here’s how it works: Wallet System: Users create wallet accounts on the app and fund them using any of the integrated payment gateways, such as E-Naira and Paystack. Except for the riders who can withdraw at any of our affiliate P.O.S, the funds are nonrefundable but highly convenient to use for all payments to our services or bills payments and affiliate services etc. We intend to charge commissions for our services through the payments made to our riders' wallets. This can incentivize our riders to be loyal to our platform and ensure that our customers are protected by tracking the transaction I.Ds. We can charge Businesses a monthly or annual subscription fees for access to full services, including marketing on the platform. They also can offer our delivery services to all of our free users, enhancing their businesses. This can significantly increase our revenues.

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

1. End Poverty, Unemployment and Insecurity The main problem our project is trying to solve is the lack of efficient, safe, and sustainable transportation and delivery options that are accessible to a wide range of users in Northeast Nigeria. By partnering with the National Association of Commercial Tricycle and Motorcycle Riders (NACT), we intend to integrate the riders' NIN and Banking details to leverage security and multiple payment options, and then train them on how to safely deliver our services. 2. Job Creation and Financial Inclusion: In addition to our insurance policy we can trace and facilitate seamless transactions between the riders and our customers, and help connect local businesses with their customers, ensuring protection from crimes associated with the local riders. These can help integrate the commercial tricycle and motorcycle riders into communities, creating jobs and the needed financial inclusion among our users, boasting local businesses in Northeast Nigeria.

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

Economic Empowerment: Our platform intends to creates job opportunities for riders and provides local businesses with a reliable delivery service to expand their reach. Convenience: Our service intends to simplifies transportation and delivery, making it easy for users to book rides or send packages with just a few clicks on their smartphones. Efficiency: With AI-powered route optimization, we are going to ensure that deliveries and rides are completed in the shortest possible time, saving customers valuable time. Safety: We prioritize the safety of both customers and riders by implementing rigorous safety protocols, including real-time tracking and in-app SOS. Inclusivity: We intend to cater to a diverse customer base with services like female-only riders and passengers with disabilities, ensuring that everyone has access to our services. Community Engagement: We intend to actively participate in community initiatives, supporting local causes and promoting sustainable practices.

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

Commuters: Individuals who need reliable and convenient transportation for daily commutes, errands, or travel within our cities. Business Professionals: Those who require punctual and efficient travel options for work-related purposes, including meetings and corporate events. Elderly and Disabled: People who may face mobility challenges and need special rides. Schools: Parents who want their kids picked up from schools. Local Businesses: Small and medium-sized enterprises that require delivery services to reach customers and expand their market presence. Rural Person: Individuals living in less accessible areas who can benefit from improved transportation and delivery services. Environmentally Conscious Consumers: People who prefer to use eco-friendly services and support businesses that prioritize sustainability. Women and Vulnerable Groups: Those who seek safer travel options with features like female-only drivers or enhanced security measures. Tourists, Visitors and Stranded Person.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-01-08

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

4

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

1

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

1. Rabiu Isa has over a decade experience in Business and Administration Management. He has been the Financial Analyst at Capital Express Pension Ltd since 2016 to date. He is a holder of B. Sc Hons in Management Technology with professional certificate from Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), two diplomas in both Business and Administration Management and Data Processing. 2. Fatima Ibrahim has over two years' experience as marketing manager in Gemstone Microfinance Bank. She intends to bring her wide range of experience in marketing to this start up. 3. Yakubu Balla is a skilled Engineer working with private company. He is graduate of Geology and has a diploma in Civil Engineering. 4. Khalid Sadauki Sambo: He is an artist with a decade experience in writing and scripting local film production.

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

https://aike.odoo.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkMEPMNpuweU_RInqtC50Vg

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

c) Industry (equipment, commercial, logistical and professional services, transport)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

Job Creation: We can provide employment opportunities for drivers, customer service representatives, and other roles, which can help reduce unemployment and poverty. Financial Inclusion: By offering digital payment options, we can help integrate unbanked populations into the financial system, promoting economic inclusion and reducing poverty. Supporting Local Economies: Our delivery startup can stimulate local economies by providing markets for local producers and retailers, which can help lift communities out of poverty. Access to Goods and Services: We can make essential goods and services more accessible to underserved or remote areas, improving living standards and reducing poverty. Empowerment through Technology: By leveraging technology, our delivery startup can empower individuals with information and access to resources, contributing to poverty alleviation.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

6

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Improving Food Access: We can facilitate the distribution of food to areas where it’s needed most, especially in urban food deserts or remote regions. Supporting Local Agriculture: By partnering with local farmers and producers, our delivery startup can help promote sustainable agriculture and provide markets for their produce. Reducing Food Waste: Implementing efficient logistics to reduce food spoilage and waste during transportation is another way our startup can contribute to this goal. Innovative Solutions: We can invest in innovative technologies that improve food preservation and distribution, contributing to food security. Community Engagement: We can engage in community programs that address hunger, such as food donation drives or collaborations with food banks.

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

6

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

Enhancing Access to Healthcare: we can deliver medicines and healthcare products to individuals who may not have easy access to pharmacies or health centers, especially in remote areas. Supporting Health Systems: By partnering with healthcare providers, we can facilitate the transport of medical supplies and equipment, aiding in the efficiency of health services. Promoting Healthy Lifestyles: Delivery services can offer healthy food options and nutritional information, encouraging better dietary habits among consumers. Reducing Exposure to Diseases: By providing delivery options, we can help minimize the need for people to visit crowded markets or stores, reducing the risk of communicable diseases. Health Education: we can disseminate health-related information and educational materials along with deliveries, raising awareness about health issues and wellness.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Supporting Education Access: we can facilitate the delivery of educational materials and supplies to schools and students, especially in underserved areas. Promoting Lifelong Learning: By offering flexible work schedules, we can enable our employees to pursue further education and training. Educational Partnerships: we can partner with educational institutions to support programs that enhance learning opportunities for students. Technology Integration: we can leverage technology to improve educational outcomes, such as using our app for literacy and numeracy development. Employee Development: we can invest in the continuous education of our workforce, offering training and professional development opportunities. Community Engagement: we can engage in community service projects that promote education, like building libraries or sponsoring educational events. Scholarship Programs: our startup can establish scholarship funds to support the education of our employees’ children.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Equal Employment Opportunities: we can ensure gender parity in hiring practices, offering equal opportunities for women and men in all roles, including leadership positions. Workplace Policies: we can develop policies that support work-life balance, such as flexible working hours and parental leave, which are particularly beneficial for women. Empowerment Programs: we can create programs to empower female employees through training, mentorship, and career development opportunities. Supporting Women Entrepreneurs: By partnering with women-led businesses for supplies or services, we can promote female entrepreneurship. Gender-Sensitive Services: we can offer services that address the specific needs of women, such as safe transportation options and delivery of feminine hygiene products. Community Engagement: we can engage in community initiatives that promote gender equality, such as supporting local women’s groups or education programs.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Water-Efficient Operations: Implementing water-saving techniques in our facilities and operations to minimize water wastage. Sustainable Packaging: we will be using biodegradable or recyclable packaging to reduce pollution and ensure that water sources remain uncontaminated. Supporting WASH Initiatives: we will be partnering with organizations that work towards Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) to support community projects focused on improving access to clean water and sanitation facilities. Educating Customers: Raising awareness about the importance of water conservation and sanitation through their platforms and delivery services. Innovative Solutions: Investing in or developing technologies that help in water purification, efficient sanitation, or rainwater harvesting1. Responsible Waste Management: Ensuring that waste from their operations is properly treated and disposed of, so as not to pollute water bodies.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

6

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Use of Renewable Energy: we can power our operations and vehicles with renewable energy sources like solar or wind power to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Energy-Efficient Practices: by implementing energy-saving technologies in our offices and warehouses, such as LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances, we can contribute to this goal. Green Vehicle Fleet: Utilizing electric or hybrid vehicles for deliveries can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote clean energy use. Sustainable Operations: Streamlining delivery routes to minimize fuel consumption and optimizing packaging to reduce waste can lead to more sustainable energy use. Investment in Clean Energy: Investing in clean energy projects or purchasing carbon offsets can help balance out the energy use of the startup. Educating Stakeholders: Raising awareness among employees and customers about the importance of clean energy and how to conserve energy in their daily lives.

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

By creating jobs for our delivery personnel and support staff, our service can contribute to economic growth and provide decent work opportunities. By enhancing security in Northern Nigeria, local shop owners can use our delivery and logistics to promote their business and earn more income. Supporting Local Economies: By partnering with local businesses, we can help stimulate economic activity within communities. Sustainable Business Practices: we can adopt sustainable practices that contribute to long-term economic growth. Workforce Development: Offering training and development programs we can improve the skill set of our workforce.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Building Resilient Infrastructure: By developing quality and sustainable delivery infrastructure, we can support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on affordable and equitable access for all. Promoting Inclusive and Sustainable Industrialization: we can contribute to raising the industry’s share of employment and GDP, particularly from the Northeast region, by fostering inclusive and sustainable business practices. Increasing Access to Financial Services and Markets: we can improve the access of small-scale enterprises to financial services, including affordable credit, and their integration into value chains and markets. Upgrading Industries for Sustainability: we can adopt clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes to make our operations sustainable. Enhancing Research and Industrial Technologies: By encouraging innovation and increasing research and development, we can upgrade the technological capabilities of the delivery industry.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Promoting Inclusion: Ensuring that our services are accessible to all segments of society, including marginalized and disadvantaged groups. Diverse Employment: Offering employment opportunities to people from diverse backgrounds, including those who are typically underrepresented in the workforce. Supporting Small Businesses: Partnering with small and local vendors can help them reach a wider market, which can reduce economic disparities. Fair Pricing: Implementing a fair pricing strategy that makes delivery services affordable for a broader range of customers. Community Initiatives: Engaging in community initiatives that aim to uplift underprivileged areas and contribute to reducing social inequalities. Advocacy and Awareness: we can use out platform to advocate for policies and practices that promote equality and reduce discrimination. Inclusive Policies: Developing internal policies that promote diversity and inclusion within the company.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Reducing Congestion and Pollution: By optimizing delivery routes, we can help reduce traffic congestion and lower emissions, contributing to cleaner air and less noise pollution. Promoting Sustainable Urbanization: we can support sustainable urbanization by facilitating the efficient delivery of goods, which can reduce the need for personal vehicle trips and encourage compact city development. Improving Resource Efficiency: we can use technology to improve the efficiency of resource use in their operations, such as using less fuel and reducing packaging waste. Enhancing Local Economies: By providing delivery services, we can support local businesses and economies, helping to create vibrant and sustainable communities. Supporting Green Public Spaces: we can participate in or sponsor initiatives to create and maintain green public spaces, which are essential for community well-being.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

By optimizing delivery routes and packaging, our services can promote resource and energy efficiency, contributing to sustainable consumption patterns. Sustainable Resource Use: We can use resources efficiently to minimize waste and reduce their environmental footprint. Eco-friendly Packaging: Implementing biodegradable or recyclable packaging materials to reduce waste. Reducing Food Waste: By optimizing delivery routes and times, they can help reduce food spoilage and waste. Supporting Local Producers: Partnering with local producers and suppliers can promote more sustainable consumption patterns. Energy Efficiency: Utilizing energy-efficient vehicles and operations can lower the overall energy consumption of our company. Consumer Awareness: Educating consumers about sustainable practices and the environmental impact of their choices. Innovation in Logistics: Investing in innovative logistics solutions that improve efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint of deliveries.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

6

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Reducing Carbon Footprint: By using electric or hybrid vehicles, we can reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with deliveries. Sustainable Practices: Implementing eco-friendly practices in operations, such as using renewable energy sources and optimizing delivery routes to minimize fuel consumption. Climate Resilience: Building resilience in our operations to withstand climate-related disruptions and supporting communities in adapting to climate change. Innovation: Investing in innovative technologies that contribute to climate mitigation, such as carbon capture and storage or advanced energy-efficient solutions. Awareness and Education: Educating customers and communities about climate change and promoting sustainable consumer behaviors. Policy Advocacy: Supporting policies that promote climate action and sustainable development, and engaging in partnerships that aim to address climate change.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

6

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Reducing Marine Pollution: we can minimize our environmental impact by using eco-friendly packaging and reducing waste that could end up in waterways. Supporting Sustainable Fishing: By choosing to deliver seafood from sustainable sources, we can help combat overfishing and support marine biodiversity. Promoting Ocean Literacy: We can educate customers about marine conservation and the importance of protecting aquatic ecosystems. Innovative Solutions: Investing in or developing technologies that help prevent marine pollution, such as waste collection systems in waterways. Community Clean-Ups: Organizing or participating in local clean-up efforts to remove trash from rivers, beaches, and oceans can have a direct positive impact on marine life. Sustainable Supply Chains: Ensuring that our supply chains do not harm marine environments, such as by avoiding products that contribute to habitat destruction. Collaborating and supporting Conservation Projects that protect life below water.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Supporting Reforestation: we can engage in or support reforestation efforts, which are critical to conserving life on land. Promoting Sustainable Agriculture: By partnering with local farmers who practice sustainable agriculture, we can help maintain healthy land ecosystems. Conserving Biodiversity: we can contribute to biodiversity by avoiding operations in protected areas and supporting conservation projects. Reducing Land Pollution: Implementing strategies to minimize waste from their operations we can help prevent land pollution. Educating on Environmental Impact: we can raise awareness about the importance of land conservation and sustainable land use practices. Innovative Solutions for Soil Health: Investing in or developing technologies that improve soil health and prevent degradation is another way we can align with this goal. Collaboration with Conservation Initiatives: Partnering with organizations focused on land conservation to support projects that protect life on land.

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

6

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

By ensuring reliable and fair delivery services, our startups can contribute to the stability and peace of local communities in the Northeast region support post-conflict by providing essential services and creating economic opportunities. Also we can help bridge the legal knowledge gap by ensuring that our operations comply with local laws and regulations, thereby setting an example for legal adherence. Our services can strengthen institutions by fostering transparency in operations and collaborating with local governments to improve infrastructure and services. By encouraging local participation in our business model, we can empower communities and promote inclusive decision-making processes. As Northeast has been affected by a decade old conflict, our delivery startup can play a role in economic recovery and uphold human rights by ensuring the safe and fair distribution of goods.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Global Networking: we can join networks like Local2030, which supports the on-the-ground delivery of this SDGs through collaboration and sharing solutions. Cross-Sector Partnerships: Our business model depends on partnerships with governments, regulators, businesses, and civil society organizations to address sustainable development challenges. Sharing Knowledge and Expertise: we can share their innovative solutions and best practices with other organizations to help advance this SDGs. Leveraging Technology: Utilizing technology to create platforms that facilitate communication and cooperation among different stakeholders. Supporting Local Initiatives: Engaging in local initiatives that aim to achieve this SDGs, thereby contributing to this global efforts. Financial Contributions: Providing financial support to projects and programs that are aligned with this SDGs. Advocacy and Awareness: Raising awareness about the SDGs and advocating for policies that support sustainable development.

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

4

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

4

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

4

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

6

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

6

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

6

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

6

05.08 Justification

Hyper-Local Focus: We prioritize understanding and integrating into the local communities we serve, which allows us to tailor our services to meet specific regional needs. Niche Services: We offer specialized services such as female-only drivers or vehicles equipped for passengers with disabilities, catering to segments of the market that are often overlooked. Multi-Modal Integration: Recognizing the importance of seamless transportation, we integrate our services with other modes of transport, providing a comprehensive mobility solution. Technology-Driven Solutions: Our platform leverages cutting-edge technology, including multiple payment options, real-time tracking, in-app SOS, AI and machine learning, to optimize routes, predict demand, and enhance safety and comfort for our user experience. Our project idea is unique because it goes beyond just transporting individuals from point A to point B; it’s about creating a sustainable, inclusive, and community-focused ecosystem.

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

Our main potential competitors in the delivery and ride-hailing industry include global giants such as Uber, Lyft, Grab., and some regional players like Kwik, Bolt, inDrive, and OLA etc. What makes our service stand out from these competitors are our unique selling points (USPs) which include: Hyper-Local Operations: We have a deep understanding of the local markets we serve, allowing us to tailor our services to meet specific regional demands and preferences. Diverse Service Offerings: We cater to niche markets with specialized services such as female-only drivers, passengers with disabilities, ensuring safety and inclusivity. Community Engagement: We can actively participate in community events and support local causes, building a strong relationship with the communities we operate in. Flexible Payment Options: Recognizing the diverse financial landscape, we offer multiple payment options, including mobile money and digital wallets, catering to both banked and unbanked customers.

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

Yes, we are going to actively initiate actions within our community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs. Here are some of the steps we’re going to be taking: . Community Collaboration: We will collaborate closely with women as drivers from local communities and encouraging women to join our platform to promote their local SME such as restaurants and shop owners. Flexible Work Schedules: Our platform offers flexible scheduling, allowing women to work around their commitments, whether they’re students, parents, or seeking additional income. Promoting Women-Owned Businesses: We will partner with women-led businesses for supplies or services, promoting female entrepreneurship and supporting their growth.