Nigeria - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Our startup is an EdTech software aimed at helping young Africans, between the ages of 18-35, learn world-class digital skills at very affordable rates. It offers free and almost free training, access to mentors, and job opportunities to help curb poverty

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Our EdTech startup aims to revolutionize digital skills education for young Africans aged 18-35. By offering a comprehensive platform with affordable, high-quality training, we empower users to acquire essential digital skills necessary for the 21st century. Our platform provides organized learning modules in various digital disciplines, access to experienced mentors, and connections to job opportunities and clients. Leveraging a hybrid revenue model—comprising minimal training fees, advertisements, a freemium model, subscriptions, corporate partnerships, grants, and affiliate marketing—we ensure financial sustainability while maintaining accessibility. Currently in the ideation stage, our immediate goals include developing a minimum viable product (MVP), building a dedicated team, and forming strategic partnerships with tech companies and educational organizations. Our mission is to equip young Africans with the tools to succeed in the digital economy, thereby reducing poverty rates.

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

Our startup addresses the significant gap in accessible and affordable digital skills training in Africa. Many young Africans lack the resources and opportunities to acquire essential digital skills, which limits their employability and contributes to high unemployment rates. By offering affordable and high-quality training, our platform aims to bridge this gap and provide young Africans with the skills needed to thrive in the modern job market.

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

1. Affordable Access to Quality Education: Our platform offers world-class digital skills training at minimal or no cost, making it accessible to a wide range of young Africans. This affordability ensures that financial barriers do not prevent individuals from acquiring essential digital skills. 2. Comprehensive Learning and Mentorship: Users benefit from organized learning modules across various digital disciplines, supported by access to experienced mentors. This combination of structured education and personal guidance enhances learning outcomes and skill development. 3. Enhanced Employability and Job Placement:

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

Our startup’s product is specifically aimed at serving young Africans aged 18-35 who are seeking to improve their digital skills and enhance their employability. These targeted beneficiaries include recent graduates, job seekers, underemployed individuals, and aspiring entrepreneurs who wish to acquire world-class digital skills at an affordable rate. Our platform also benefits those looking to pivot their careers into the digital economy or start their own businesses by providing essential training, mentorship, and job placement services. By focusing on this demographic, we aim to empower a generation of Africans to overcome barriers to education and employment, thereby contributing to poverty reduction and economic growth across the continent. Our inclusive approach ensures that even those with limited financial resources have the opportunity to gain valuable skills and access to job opportunities.

01.05 When was your company established?

2024-01-01

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

No

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

1

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

1

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

Joshua Erondu is a multifaceted professional with a robust background in digital marketing and education . He is a digital marketer, who has successfully leveraged Facebook advertising strategies to drive profitability for numerous businesses. He has a track record of teaching digital marketing skills to over 5000 individuals through online courses, he has established a reputation for delivering high-impact educational content. In addition to digital marketing expertise, Joshua Erondu brings over five years of experience as an Android developer. This technical proficiency has been instrumental in conceptualizing and developing innovative tech solutions for the startuls With a passion for empowering learners and a proven ability to merge technical expertise with effective digital strategies, Joshua is poised to make significant strides in the learning platform industry by creating accessible and impactful educational experiences.

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

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

Our startup directly contributes to the UN SDG of No Poverty by equipping young Africans with essential digital skills and facilitating job placements. By providing affordable access to world-class education and connecting users to job opportunities and clients, we empower individuals to secure sustainable livelihoods and escape the cycle of poverty. Through our platform, users can acquire market-relevant skills that are in demand globally, thereby enhancing their employability and income-generating potential. By focusing on this demographic, which often faces higher unemployment rates and economic challenges, we support inclusive economic growth and social development across Africa. Ultimately, our initiative aims to reduce poverty by fostering a skilled workforce capable of thriving in the digital economy, thus contributing to broader socioeconomic stability and prosperity in the region.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

6

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Zero Hunger by empowering young Africans with digital skills that enhance agricultural productivity and food security. Through our platform, users gain access to training in agricultural technology and digital farming techniques, enabling them to optimize crop yields and improve agricultural practices. By equipping farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs with these skills, we support sustainable agriculture and food production, ultimately reducing food insecurity. Additionally, our platform facilitates connections to agricultural markets and buyers, empowering local communities to participate more effectively in the agricultural value chain. By promoting innovation and knowledge-sharing in agriculture, we contribute to building resilient food systems that can withstand economic and environmental challenges.

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

5

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Good Health and Wellbeing by promoting access to digital health education and services for young Africans. Through our platform, users can access training in digital health technologies, telemedicine, and health informatics. By equipping healthcare professionals with these skills, we enhance their ability to deliver quality healthcare services, especially in underserved communities where access to healthcare is limited. This empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Additionally, our platform supports health education initiatives, providing resources and courses on preventive care, nutrition, and mental health. By leveraging technology to bridge gaps in healthcare delivery, we contribute to improving health outcomes and reducing inequalities in access to healthcare across Africa. Ultimately, our efforts aim to build a healthier population.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Quality Education by democratizing access to world-class digital skills training for young Africans. Through our platform, we offer affordable and accessible education in a wide range of digital disciplines such as coding, digital marketing, and data analytics. By providing structured learning modules, access to experienced mentors, and practical job placement opportunities, we ensure that users acquire relevant and marketable skills. This empowers them to compete in the global job market and contribute meaningfully to economic growth. Additionally, our emphasis on continuous curriculum updates ensures that learners receive education that meets current industry standards and technological advancements. By leveraging technology to overcome barriers to education, we promote lifelong learning and skill development, fostering a culture of innovation and knowledge-sharing across Africa. Ultimately, our initiative aims t

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Gender Equality by actively promoting inclusive access to digital education and economic opportunities for women in Africa. Through our platform, we prioritize outreach and support programs that encourage women to participate in digital skills training and entrepreneurship. By offering flexible learning options and mentorship opportunities, we empower women to acquire and apply digital skills effectively, enhancing their employability and economic independence. Moreover, our platform fosters a supportive community where women can network, collaborate, and share experiences, thereby breaking down societal barriers and stereotypes in the tech industry. By highlighting female role models and success stories in digital entrepreneurship, we inspire more women to pursue careers in technology and leadership roles.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

4

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Clean Water and Sanitation indirectly through promoting digital education and economic empowerment. While our primary focus is on digital skills training and job opportunities for young Africans, these efforts contribute to broader socioeconomic development that supports infrastructure improvements, including water and sanitation facilities. By equipping individuals with digital skills, our platform enhances their employability and economic opportunities, which can lead to increased household income. Improved economic conditions enable families and communities to invest in better water and sanitation infrastructure, thereby improving access to clean water and sanitation services. Furthermore, our platform promotes environmental sustainability through education on digital technologies that can be applied to water management, sanitation solutions, and environmental monitoring.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

4

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Affordable and Clean Energy by promoting digital education and entrepreneurship that supports innovation in renewable energy technologies. Through our platform, we offer training in digital skills relevant to the energy sector, such as renewable energy systems design, energy efficiency, and smart grid technologies. By equipping young Africans with these skills, we empower them to participate in and drive innovation in clean energy solutions. This includes developing applications and technologies that improve energy access, efficiency, and sustainability. By fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, we encourage users to leverage digital tools to address energy challenges and promote the adoption of clean energy solutions. Additionally, our platform supports educational initiatives and partnerships that raise awareness about clean energy technologies and their benefits.

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Decent Work and Economic Growth by providing young Africans with affordable access to digital skills training and job placement services. By equipping individuals with marketable digital skills, we enhance their employability and enable them to secure decent work opportunities in the growing digital economy. Through our platform, users gain access to structured learning modules in various digital disciplines, mentorship from industry experts, and connections to potential employers and clients. This holistic approach ensures that learners not only acquire relevant skills but also receive support in translating those skills into tangible economic opportunities. Furthermore, we foster entrepreneurship by offering training in digital business development, encouraging users to start their own ventures and create jobs within their communities.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure by fostering digital skills development and entrepreneurship in Africa. We provide young Africans with affordable, high-quality training in cutting-edge digital technologies, such as software development, data analytics, and cybersecurity. By equipping individuals with these skills, we empower them to innovate and contribute to the growth of the tech industry in their regions. Through our platform, we promote innovation by encouraging users to apply their digital skills to solve local and global challenges.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to the UN SDG of Reduced Inequality by democratizing access to digital skills training and economic opportunities for underserved and marginalized communities in Africa. We offer affordable, high-quality education tailored to young Africans, particularly targeting women, rural residents, and those from low-income backgrounds. By providing flexible learning options and personalized mentorship, we bridge the digital divide, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their socio-economic status, has the opportunity to acquire valuable digital skills. Through our platform, we promote inclusivity and equal access to job opportunities by connecting users to employers and clients worldwide. This helps to level the playing field and provides marginalized groups with the chance to compete in the global job market. Additionally, we support entrepreneurial endeavors, empowering individuals to start their own businesses and create local job opportunities.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

5

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to the UN SDG of Sustainable Cities and Communities by empowering individuals with digital skills that can be applied to urban planning, smart city technologies, and sustainable development projects. By training young Africans in digital literacy and innovative technologies, we enable them to participate in creating more efficient, resilient, and sustainable urban environments. Additionally, our platform promotes the use of digital tools for community engagement, disaster management, and resource optimization, supporting the development of smart cities that improve the quality of life for all residents.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

3

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

Our startup promotes the UN SDG of Responsible Consumption and Production by integrating sustainability principles into our training programs. We educate users on the use of digital technologies to optimize supply chains, reduce waste, and implement circular economy practices. By fostering a culture of responsible consumption, we encourage individuals and businesses to adopt sustainable practices that minimize their environmental impact. Our platform also supports the development of green tech startups that focus on innovative solutions for sustainable production and consumption.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

4

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Our startup supports the UN SDG of Climate Action by educating users on the role of digital technologies in mitigating and adapting to climate change. We offer training in areas such as renewable energy, energy-efficient solutions, and environmental monitoring, empowering individuals to develop and implement climate-smart technologies. Our platform advocates for the use of digital tools to enhance climate resilience and adaptation strategies, supporting communities in their efforts to address climate-related challenges. By promoting awareness and action on climate issues, we contribute to global efforts to combat climate change and protect the environment.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

4

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to the UN SDG of Life On Land by incorporating environmental education into our digital skills training programs. We provide users with tools and knowledge to leverage digital technologies for land conservation, wildlife protection, and sustainable agriculture. By promoting the use of geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and other digital tools, we enable individuals to monitor and manage natural resources effectively, supporting biodiversity conservation and sustainable land use practices. Our efforts help raise awareness about the importance of protecting terrestrial ecosystems and foster a commitment to environmental stewardship.

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

6

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Our startup supports the UN SDG of Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions by promoting digital literacy and access to information, which are crucial for fostering transparent and accountable governance. Through our platform, we offer training on digital tools that enhance civic engagement, improve public service delivery, and support the fight against corruption. By empowering individuals with digital skills, we contribute to the development of informed and active citizens who can participate in democratic processes and advocate for their rights. Additionally, our focus on inclusivity and equal opportunity helps build more just and equitable societies.

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to the UN SDG of Partnerships for the Goals by actively collaborating with educational institutions, tech companies, non-profit organizations, and government agencies. These partnerships enhance our ability to provide high-quality digital skills training and expand our reach to underserved communities. By fostering a collaborative ecosystem, we leverage the strengths and resources of our partners to drive innovation, promote sustainable development, and achieve shared goals. Our commitment to partnerships ensures that we can scale our impact and contribute to the global effort to achieve the 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.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.02 The product/service represents an entirely new type of product/service.

2

06.03 The product/service could be described as a new technology.

6

06.04 The product/service is an improvement on an existing product or service.

5

06.05 The product/service could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

6

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

06.08 Justification for my startup

Our startup is unique and innovative in several key ways. We provide affordable access to high-quality digital skills training, addressing the educational gaps for young Africans who often lack opportunities in traditional systems. Unlike typical platforms, we emphasize both job placement services and support for entrepreneurial ventures, ensuring our training leads to tangible economic opportunities and independence. Inclusivity is central to our approach, reaching marginalized groups such as women and rural residents. We integrate regional values and customs into our curriculum, enhancing relevance and engagement. Our platform promotes sustainability and innovation by encouraging green tech solutions and partnerships with diverse stakeholders. This collaborative ecosystem amplifies our impact and fosters continuous innovation, positioning us as leaders in digital education and economic empowerment in Africa.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main potential competitors include traditional educational institutions offering digital skills courses, online learning platforms focusing on tech education, and vocational training centers. Examples are Coursera and Udemy. What sets us apart is our unique combination of affordability, comprehensive job placement support, and entrepreneurial focus. Unlike many competitors, we tailor our programs to address African regional needs and cultural contexts, ensuring relevance and inclusivity. Additionally, our emphasis on sustainability and green tech innovation distinguishes us, aligning with global goals while preparing learners for future career demands in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

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

Yes, I am.