Kenya - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Nexus TechConnect in Africa bridges certification education and employment in the tech sector through mentorship, internships, career coaching, and tailored training for tech and coding certification graduates, preparing them for placement in job roles.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Based on a survey sent out to some tech & coding certification graduates across Africa, it was evident that many programs lack post-graduation support. Nexus TechConnect aims to address this by offering services for career success in tech, including technical expertise, coding skills, mentorship, internships, career coaching, job preparation, and placement programs, as well as networking events. Our focus is on sustainable career pathways, fostering innovation, and enhancing economic growth. Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, we aim to reduce unemployment and promote socio-economic development. Our comprehensive approach ensures that trainees are industry-ready, driving transformation and growth within African communities.

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

The primary problem Nexus TechConnect aims to solve is the significant gap between education and employment in Africa's technology sector. Despite the completion of coding bootcamps and certification programs, many individuals struggle to secure relevant job opportunities due to a lack of practical experience, inadequate mentorship, and insufficient access to industry networks. This issue is compounded by the tech industry's high demand for skilled professionals, which remains unmet. Nexus TechConnect addresses this gap by providing comprehensive support through mentorship, internships, career coaching, job preparation & placement programs, and tailored training programs among others that align with industry needs. Our goal is to enhance employability, foster economic stability, and drive innovation by ensuring that trained individuals can successfully transition into tech roles.

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

1. Enhanced Employability; by offering tailored training & mentorship that aligns with industry demands, graduates are better prepared to meet the expectations of tech employers, ensuring a smoother transition into the workforce. 2. Access to Job Opportunities; by partnering with a diverse range of tech firms, we aim to facilitate direct connections between job seekers and tech companies, helping at least 5,000 individuals secure employment annually, either contract or fulltime work. 3. Economic and Community Development; by improving employment rates and fostering economic stability, we will contribute to the socio-economic development of local communities. 4. Diverse and Inclusive Workforce; we will promote diversity and inclusion in the tech industry by ensuring equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender, background, or socio-economic status. 5. Personal & Professional Growth; the support network will aid participants to build confidence & improve soft skills to tackle issues

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

1. Job seekers in Tech industry including recent graduates and young professionals with skills in coding, data analysis, web dev, and other tech-related fields needing support preparing for and securing their first or consecutive role in tech or advancing their career. 2. Tech companies seeking to fill their talent gaps with skilled and trained candidates whether on a part time, full time or contract basis, we will help these companies access a diverse pool of qualified professionals. 3. Women and individuals from underrepresented communities, who face barriers to entry and progression in their career in tech, as we focus on promoting diversity and inclusion by providing equal opportunities for all.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-03-01

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

0

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.)

No other partners yet.

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?

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

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

By providing job opportunities (internships, part-time, full-time, and contract jobs), enhancing employability (mentorship, career coaching, and job preparation), offering technical expertise, training opportunities, and organizing networking events, Nexus TechConnect will be empowering individuals to secure stable income, thus reducing poverty. These opportunities will help participant achieve financial independence and improve living standards. Our mentorship programs and career coaching will ensure steady income by preparing individuals for job roles, while workshops on soft skills further enhance employability. Networking events will connect participants with employers and industry experts, facilitating professional growth. This holistic approach will improve economic situations, reduces reliance on low-paying jobs, and uplift families and communities, ultimately contributing to poverty reduction.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

4

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

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

5

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

By providing stable employment, which directly impacts mental and physical health, Nexus TechConnect will be contributing to Good Health and Well-being. Employment offers financial security, reducing stress and anxiety associated with economic instability. Our programs will enhance job readiness and employability, helping individuals secure meaningful work that boosts self-esteem and life satisfaction. The income stability provided by steady employment will enable participants to afford better healthcare, nutrition, and living conditions, promoting overall well-being. Additionally, our community support and networking events will foster social connections, combating isolation and improving mental health. This holistic approach will ensure that participants not only find jobs but also achieve a balanced and healthy lifestyle, contributing significantly to their overall well-being.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Nexus TechConnect contributes to Quality Education by offering specialized training tailored to employer requirements in the technology sector. Our programs will ensure participants acquire in-demand technical skills, enhancing their employability and alignment with industry needs. By providing mentorship and career coaching, we will guide individuals in navigating their educational and professional journeys effectively. Our focus on essential soft skills, such as communication and teamwork, will further equips participants for workplace success. This targeted and inclusive approach ensures access to quality education, fosters career readiness, and supports lifelong learning, ultimately contributing to sustainable development.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Nexus TechConnect will contribute to Gender Equality by providing equal opportunities for all, ensuring that both men and women will receive specialized training tailored to employer requirements in the tech industry. The organization will actively promote gender diversity by offering mentorship, career coaching, and networking opportunities to support women and underrepresented groups. This inclusive approach will help women gain in-demand technical skills, build confidence, and advance their careers, thereby reducing gender disparities. By facilitating access to quality education and job placements, the organization will empower individuals to achieve financial independence and career growth, fostering a more balanced and equitable workforce in the tech sector.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

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

Nexus TechConnect will contribute to Decent Work and Economic Growth by providing specialized training that aligns with employer needs, enhancing participants' employability in the tech sector. The organization will facilitate internships, part-time, full-time, and contract job placements, ensuring stable income and job security. Through mentorship and career coaching, the organization will help individuals develop essential skills, navigate their career paths, and achieve professional goals, leading to sustainable career growth. Nexus TechConnect's focus on technical and soft skills training will ensure that participants are well-prepared for the workforce, increasing their competitiveness and job retention rates. Additionally, by organizing networking events and job fairs, the organization will connect job seekers with potential employers, fostering a robust professional network that will support continuous employment opportunities, improving economic stability and economic growth.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

5

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Nexus TechConnect will contribute to Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure by equipping individuals with advanced technical skills through specialized training aligned with industry needs. This initiative will foster a skilled workforce capable of driving innovation and enhancing productivity within the tech sector. By providing job placements, we'll ensure that trained professionals are integrated into the industry, contributing to the development and maintenance of modern infrastructure. Our focus on continuous learning and upskilling will help participants stay abreast of technological advancements, fostering a culture of innovation. In addition, our networking events and collaborations with tech companies will create a robust ecosystem for sharing ideas and best practices, further driving industry innovation. By addressing talent shortages and promoting a skilled, diverse workforce, Nexus TechConnect will strengthen the infrastructure and fostering sustainable industrial growth.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

4

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

2

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

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

4

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Nexus TechConnect will contribute to Partnerships for the Goals by collaborating with tech companies, educational institutions, and non-profits to enhance skill development and employment opportunities. These partnerships will ensure our training aligns with industry needs, providing participants with relevant, high-demand skills. We will facilitate job placements and internships by working closely with employers, creating a direct pipeline from training to employment. Collaborations with educational institutions will keep our curriculum cutting-edge, while partnerships with non-profits will help us reach underrepresented groups, promoting inclusivity and diversity. Additionally, our networking events and job fairs will connect job seekers with employers and industry experts, fostering a collaborative ecosystem. Through these strategic alliances, Nexus TechConnect will leverage collective expertise and resources to drive sustainable development, enhancing employability & economy.

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.

5

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.

5

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

Nexus TechConnect’s approach is unique and innovative in several ways. While some similar services exist, our integration of specialized training tailored to specific employer needs sets us apart, ensuring participants acquire relevant, high-demand skills. This customization improves on standard job placement services by directly addressing employer requirements. Our model will extend existing services by combining job placements, mentorship, internship, career coaching, and tailored training, enhancing employability and meeting market demands. This approach fills a gap in the market by bridging the divide between training and job requirements. Additionally, our platform will leverage existing technologies with new methodologies, creating a more efficient and effective system. This innovative blend of services will position Nexus TechConnect as a leader in aligning training with employment needs in the tech sector.

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

Our main potential competitors include Code first Girls, Andela, Coursera, and local tech bootcamps like Moringa School and iHub. Code First Girls mostly serves UK and targets Girls only, whereas we will serve all across Africa. Andela targets already skilled developers for remote engineering roles, whereas Nexus TechConnect will provide tailored training to make candidates job-ready from any skill level for a specific role. Coursera offers a wide range of online courses but lacks the personalized mentorship and direct job placement services that we provide. Local bootcamps like Moringa and iHub focus on coding education but often do not offer the comprehensive support system that Nexus TechConnect will offer, which includes ongoing career coaching and employer-specific training. Our unique blend of tailored training, personalized mentorship, and direct job placements ensures participants are fully prepared and aligned with employer needs, leading to higher job placement success rates.

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

Not yet