Nigeria - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

WorkVest is a multi-service platform designed to tackle unemployment by connecting skilled workers and artisans with potential clients providing financial empowerment opportunities.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

WorkVest tackles unemployment by linking skilled workers, including artisans, with customers needing their services. It's a digital marketplace for various trades and professions. Providers, from plumbers and tutors to caterers and artisans, gain job opportunities, flexibility, reputation building through reviews, secure payments, and training resources. Clients can post their problems and receive bids from Providers, ensuring they find the best solution at a competitive price. Transparent reviews and identity verification ensure reliability and trust. My app handles logistics, allowing Providers to focus on their work and Clients to receive seamless service. The platform integrates investment opportunities in stocks, real estate, and agriculture, alongside financial literacy education. With multi-lingual support, It benefits both Providers and Clients, offering economic opportunities, skill development, and reliable services. Our mission is to empower individuals by promoting growth.

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

My app addresses unemployment in Nigeria and Africa, particularly among the youth. It serves as a digital marketplace connecting skilled workers with clients seeking services such as fashion designing, pop artistry, and event decoration. Alongside job opportunities, the app offers financial literacy education, guiding users on budgeting, saving, and investing. Clients can easily post their needs, allowing artisans and skilled workers to bid and streamline the process. Moreover, the app handles logistics, ensuring smooth service delivery. By providing both employment opportunities and financial education, it aims to empower individuals and foster economic growth in the region. Additionally, it can contribute to poverty alleviation, economic inclusivity, efficiency, and financial stability, making a significant positive impact on individuals, communities, and the broader economy.

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

For Service Providers: - Expanded job opportunities beyond local area - Flexibility to choose gigs based on skills & schedule - Platform to showcase skills, build reputation via ratings/reviews - Secure in-app payments after completing jobs - Access to training resources for continuous skill development For Customers: - Convenient access to verified skilled workers across services (plumbing, tutoring, repairs, etc.) - Informed decision-making through transparent customer reviews/ratings - Safe hiring process with robust worker identity verification - Customized service solutions tailored to specific requirements - Potentially cost-effective compared to traditional service companies - Time-saving process for finding, hiring, and managing skilled help For Service providers - Financial literacy education & investment opportunity exploration - Ability to invest in stocks, real estate, agriculture, etc. via integrated platform - Community-building by connecting workers & customers

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

My project serves two key groups: clients needing solutions and skilled workers seeking employment. For clients, the app simplifies finding skilled artisans to address their needs, from technical fixes to design replication. By posting on the platform, clients access a nationwide pool of skilled workers, streamlining their search process. Skilled workers are the targeted beneficiaries. Upon completing gigs, they receive secure in-app payments and opportunities to invest earnings in stocks, real estate, and other assets, fostering financial growth. The app serves as a bridge between clients and workers, facilitating efficient problem-solving and empowering workers with payment security and investment avenues. It aims to benefit both sides of the marketplace, contributing to economic empowerment and growth.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-03-06

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

3

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.)

1.Samuel Emehinola- He is a mobile app developer with 3 years experience. He is proficient in flutter and python. 2. Ogunbiamila Eniola- He is skilled at public speaking, He is also a marketer. 3.Adejala Timilehin -He is a marketer with 1 year experience.

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

https://www.facebook.com/workvest.2024

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

h) IT (digital services, equipment and software)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

My startup plays a significant role in addressing poverty by providing artisans with opportunities to generate income for themselves. By connecting skilled artisans with clients in need of their services, our platform empowers individuals to create sustainable livelihoods and improve their economic well-being. While we recognize that our efforts alone may not fully eradicate poverty, we firmly believe that our platform can make a meaningful impact in alleviating poverty, particularly in the current economic landscape. Through our initiatives, we strive to contribute to the broader goal of ending poverty in all its forms everywhere.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Our project focuses on connecting skilled workers with clients needing various services, thereby addressing unemployment and promoting economic opportunities. While these efforts contribute to overall economic stability and individual well-being, our platform does not directly engage with initiatives aimed at ending hunger, achieving food security, improving nutrition, or promoting sustainable agriculture. Our current objectives center around job creation and skill development, which indirectly support economic stability but do not specifically target the Zero Hunger goal. Consequently, our contribution to this goal is minimal.

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

5

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

WorkVest contributes to good health and well-being by reducing stress and improving work-life balance for skilled workers. By providing job opportunities and flexibility, our platform enables individuals to choose their working hours and locations, reducing the strain associated with traditional employment models. Moreover, by facilitating access to various services such as home maintenance, tutoring, and catering, we enhance the overall quality of life for clients, promoting well-being within communities. Additionally, our focus on financial literacy and skill development empowers individuals to make healthier lifestyle choices and invest in their personal and professional growth, contributing to long-term well-being.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Our project, WorkVest, significantly contributes to Quality Education by providing a platform where skilled workers can access training resources and educational materials to enhance their expertise. Through our app, users can gain new skills, improve existing ones, and stay updated with industry trends, promoting lifelong learning. We also offer financial literacy education, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their financial futures. By facilitating the sharing of knowledge and skills, we create an inclusive environment where all individuals, regardless of background, have the opportunity to grow and succeed. This commitment to continuous learning and skill development aligns with the 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

My app can promote gender equality by ensuring equal opportunities for both genders in accessing job opportunities. Encourage women's participation in traditionally male-dominated fields, provide training and mentorship programs tailored for them, and create a safe and inclusive environment free from harassment. Ensure fair compensation and access to financial resources, empowering women to achieve financial independence. Additionally, offer resources for entrepreneurship and career development targeted at women, fostering their success in the workforce.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

While our project excels at connecting skilled workers with clients to address unemployment and boost economic opportunities, it does not directly impact the availability or sustainable management of water and sanitation. Our focus is on creating economic growth through job matching and skill development. Although we are passionate about sustainable development, our current initiatives do not include specific actions aimed at enhancing water and sanitation systems. We believe in contributing to a better world and hope to explore ways to support clean water and sanitation in the future, but as of now, our contribution to this goal is minimal.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Our project focuses on linking skilled workers with clients needing various services, addressing unemployment, and promoting economic opportunities and skill development. While we aim to enhance economic growth and workforce capabilities, our platform does not include specific initiatives or features aimed at ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy. Consequently, our contribution to the Affordable and Clean Energy goal is minimal.

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

My app plays a pivotal role in fostering the economic growth of the country by generating job opportunities and income streams for skilled artisans and workers. By connecting them with a diverse range of gigs, it not only introduces them to additional income avenues but also empowers them to invest their earnings wisely. Through these initiatives, the app promotes sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth while ensuring full and productive employment and decent work for all.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

My app serves as a bridge between skilled workers and potential clients, facilitating workforce expansion across diverse industries, thus enhancing productivity and efficiency. It stands out by empowering workers financially, addressing income inequality, and fostering inclusivity within industries. Moreover, by introducing innovative methods of connecting workers and clients, it stimulates technological advancements and the development of new business models. Although not directly targeting infrastructure challenges, it indirectly contributes to resilience by optimizing workforce utilization, ensuring the timely completion of projects essential for economic and environmental stability."

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

My project directly contributes to the goal of reducing inequalities within and among countries. By providing a platform that empowers skilled workers financially and ensures fair compensation, it addresses income disparities within industries. Additionally, by connecting workers with clients efficiently, regardless of geographical location or socioeconomic status, it promotes equal access to economic opportunities. Through these efforts, my project works towards fostering a more inclusive society and narrowing the gap between individuals and communities, thus contributing to the overarching objective of reducing inequalities globally.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

5

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

My project significantly contributes to the Sustainable Cities and Communities goal by promoting inclusivity, safety, resilience, and sustainability within urban and human settlements. Through the platform's facilitation of skilled workers' connections with clients, it fosters economic opportunities and community development within cities. By empowering workers financially and ensuring fair compensation, it addresses income disparities, thus promoting inclusivity. Moreover, by optimizing workforce utilization and promoting efficient project completion, it enhances the resilience of urban infrastructure. Ultimately, by fostering innovation and connectivity within cities, my project contributes to creating sustainable, inclusive, and thriving urban communities.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

5

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

My project plays a crucial role in advancing the Responsible Consumption and Production goal by promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns, particularly through the principles of the circular economy. By connecting skilled workers with clients and fostering efficient utilization of resources, it encourages responsible production practices within various industries. Additionally, the platform's emphasis on fair compensation and financial empowerment for workers contributes to reducing wasteful consumption and promoting more conscious consumer behavior. Through these efforts, my project facilitates the transition towards sustainable practices, ultimately contributing to the creation of a more environmentally friendly and socially responsible economy.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Our project primarily focuses on connecting skilled workers with clients needing their services, addressing unemployment, and promoting economic opportunities. While our platform aims to enhance economic growth and skill development, it does not include specific initiatives or features aimed at combating climate change or mitigating its impacts. Therefore, our contribution to the Climate Action goal is minimal.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Our project focuses on addressing unemployment by connecting skilled workers with clients in need of various services, thereby promoting economic opportunities and skill development. While our primary objectives are related to economic growth and workforce development, we do not have initiatives or features that directly conserve or sustainably use oceans, seas, or marine resources. Therefore, our contribution to the Life Below Water goal is minimal.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

WorkVest indirectly supports the Life on Land goal by promoting sustainable economic activities. By connecting skilled workers locally, we reduce the need for long-distance commuting, thus lowering carbon emissions. Moreover, our platform encourages small-scale entrepreneurs like artisans to thrive, often using locally-sourced materials, thus contributing to sustainable land use practices. Additionally, through our financial literacy education, we empower individuals to make informed decisions, potentially leading to investments in environmentally friendly projects or initiatives aimed at land conservation and restoration.

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Our project primarily focuses on connecting skilled workers with clients needing their services, addressing unemployment, and promoting economic opportunities. While our primary objectives are centered around economic development and skill enhancement, we do not have a direct impact on promoting peaceful and inclusive societies, providing access to justice for all, or building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels. Therefore, our contribution to this particular goal is minimal.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

WorkVest actively fosters partnerships between skilled workers, clients, and other stakeholders, aligning with the principles of the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development. By bringing together various trades and professions on a single platform, we facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing among individuals and businesses. Additionally, we seek strategic partnerships with organizations focused on sustainable development, such as NGOs, government agencies, and educational institutions, to further amplify our impact. Through these partnerships, we leverage resources, expertise, and networks to enhance the effectiveness and reach of our initiatives, ultimately advancing the shared goal of 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.

5

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

5

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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.

5

05.08 Justification

WorkVest revolutionizes the skilled labor market with its unique approach. It empowers skilled workers financially and provides a platform for brands to showcase services, a feature unparalleled in existing platforms. The app's groundbreaking bid-for-gigs feature allows direct engagement between workers and clients, setting it apart. Furthermore, its integrated logistics team ensures seamless gadget shipping for repairs, enhancing overall efficiency. This multifaceted approach addresses diverse market needs, making WorkVest a pioneer in the skilled labor industry, poised to redefine gig-based work dynamics and foster economic empowerment on a broader scale.

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

Workman is a competitor in the skilled labor market, offering a platform for connecting clients with skilled workers. However, WorkVest distinguishes itself through its innovative features and unique approach. Unlike other apps, WorkVest prioritizes financial empowerment opportunities for skilled workers, providing them with avenues to not only secure gigs but also invest their earnings wisely. Additionally, WorkVest introduces a novel model where clients can post gigs directly, streamlining the process and increasing accessibility for both clients and workers. Moreover, WorkVest boasts a diverse range of skills available, catering to various needs and ensuring a comprehensive marketplace for both clients and workers. Overall, WorkVest sets itself apart by prioritizing financial empowerment, introducing new gig-posting models, and offering a wide range of skills, thereby revolutionizing the skilled labor market.

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

I am not doing that yet.