Nigeria - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Madesoft Academy (MAT) is an AI-powered EdTech platform offering hands-on engineering training, personalized learning experiences, virtual labs, and expert mentorship to prepare students for successful careers in engineering.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Madesoft Academy (MAT) is an engineering edutech startup that tackles the disconnect between academic knowledge and industry needs by offering practical, hands-on engineering training through a digitalized web-based platform. This platform matches students with industry experts for one-on-one mentorship and provides a virtual simulation lab that allows trainees to apply their learning by simulating real-world engineering processes. The MAT platform enables trainees to work with virtual models that closely mimic real-world conditions. This helps them develop practical problem-solving skills. This interactive platform provides immediate feedback and guidance, reinforcing learning and allowing trainees to track their progress. By integrating comprehensive, project-based courses with industry-standard tools and technologies, MAT ensures that students gain the skills and knowledge required to excel in their engineering careers.

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

The main problem Madesoft Academy (MAT) is trying to solve is the disconnect between academic knowledge and industry needs in engineering education. Traditional academic programs often lack practical, hands-on training, leaving graduates unprepared for real-world engineering challenges. MAT addresses this by offering a digitalized web-based platform that provides practical, hands-on engineering training. This platform matches students with industry experts for one-on-one mentorship and offers a virtual simulation lab where trainees can apply their learning by simulating real-world engineering processes. Through comprehensive, project-based courses and access to industry-standard tools and technologies, MAT ensures that students develop practical problem-solving skills and gain the knowledge required to excel in their engineering careers.

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

MAT offers several key benefits for aspiring engineers: Practical Skills for Real-World Success: MAT goes beyond theory. The project-based learning and virtual simulation lab provide students with hands-on experience applying their knowledge in a safe, digital environment. This allows them to develop practical skills highly valued by the engineering industry. Personalized Mentorship and Accelerated Learning: MAT bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world application through a one-on-one mentorship program. Students gain personalized guidance and insights from experienced professionals, accelerating their learning and preparing them for the specific demands of the industry. Flexible and Accessible Learning: MAT allows students to access courses and the virtual lab anytime, anywhere. This flexibility caters to various learning styles and busy schedules. Students can learn at their own pace, revisit concepts as needed, and track their progress for continuous improvement.

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

MAT targets two key groups Aspiring Engineers: This is the primary beneficiary group. MAT caters to individuals seeking to enter the engineering field by equipping them with the practical skills and knowledge needed for successful careers. Recent Graduates: Those who have completed traditional engineering programs can also benefit from MAT. MAT's focus on industry-aligned skills and practical application can bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and the demands of professional engineering. Here's a breakdown of how MAT benefits these target groups: For aspiring engineers: gain practical skills through project-based learning and virtual simulations, receive personalized mentorship to accelerate learning, and access a flexible, online learning platform that caters to individual needs. For recent graduates: enhance their skillset with industry-relevant training, gain insights from experienced professionals through mentorship, and improve their competitiveness in the job

01.05 When was your company established?

2022-02-16

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?

1

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

Benosa Alfred JavaScript developer with 5 years of hands-on experience building and maintaining web applications. Proven ability to deliver clean, efficient, and well-documented code across various project scopes. Eager to leverage strong problem-solving skills and a passion for learning to contribute to a collaborative and innovative development team. Skills JavaScript (ES5+, ES6+) HTML5 CSS3 Front-End Frameworks ( Vue.js) Back-End Framworks  (Node.js) Build Tools (Webpack, Gulp) Version Control Systems (Git) Engr. Osayande I.E  Automation, Control & Software Specialist Accomplished Automation, Control, and Software Specialist with over 14 years of experience. Skilled in software development using a variety of technologies for both Windows and web applications. Strong project management skills. Specialties Control systems: DCS, PLCs, HMI, and field instrumentation. Full-Stack Development:  HTML, CSS, and Javascript. Project Management: 

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

https://madesoftacademy.com/ , https://www.instagram.com/madesoftacademy/ , https://www.linkedin.com/madesoftacademy

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

Madesoft Academy (MAT) contributes to the UN's "No Poverty" SDG by equipping engineers with the skills needed to drive innovation and create solutions for a more prosperous world. Here's how: Skilled Workforce: MAT bridges the gap between academic knowledge and industry demands. This ensures graduates have the practical skills and knowledge required for high-demand engineering jobs, improving their employability and economic opportunities.  Entrepreneurship: The practical training and mentorship provided by MAT can equip graduates with the skills and confidence to become entrepreneurs. This can create new jobs, stimulate economic activity, and contribute to poverty reduction in communities. In essence, MAT empowers engineers to become valuable contributors to the workforce, develop solutions for a sustainable future, and potentially become job creators. This can have a ripple effect, contributing to poverty reduction and economic growth on both individual and community levels.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Madesoft Academy (MAT) addresses the "Zero Hunger" SDG indirectly by empowering future engineers to develop solutions that can contribute to a more sustainable food system. Here's how: Innovation for Agriculture: MAT's focus on industry-standard tools and technologies equips graduates with the skills to create solutions for agricultural challenges. This could involve: Developing automation and robotics for efficient food production. Designing sustainable irrigation systems for water conservation. Creating technologies for improved food storage and distribution. MAT empowers future engineers to develop skills that can be applied to create solutions that improve food security and contribute to the "Zero Hunger" goal.

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

Madesoft Academy (MAT) contributes to the UN's "Good Health and Well-being" SDG by equipping engineers with the skills to develop innovative solutions for a healthier future. Here's how: Medical Technology Development: MAT's focus on industry-standard tools and technologies prepares engineers to contribute to advancements in medical devices, prosthetics, and diagnostic equipment. This can improve access to healthcare and patient outcomes. Innovation in Healthcare Systems: The problem-solving skills honed through MAT's virtual labs and project-based learning can empower engineers to develop solutions for efficient healthcare delivery systems, improved patient monitoring, and telemedicine advancements. MAT doesn't directly train medical professionals, but it equips engineers with the skills to create solutions that address healthcare challenges and contribute to improved health and well-being for all.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

MAT directly addresses the UN's "Quality Education" SDG by providing inclusive and high-quality education with these key features Focus on Practical Skills: MAT goes beyond theory, offering project-based learning and a virtual simulation lab. This hands-on approach ensures students develop practical skills valued by the industry, preparing them for successful careers. Accessibility and Equity: The online platform makes quality engineering education accessible to a wider range of learners, regardless of location or background. This promotes inclusivity and removes barriers for those seeking to enter the engineering field. Mentorship for All: MAT's one-on-one mentorship program provides personalized guidance and fosters a supportive learning environment. By equipping students with practical skills, promoting accessibility, and fostering lifelong learning, MAT empowers individuals to pursue engineering careers and contributes to achieving the UN's "Quality Education" SDG

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

MAT contributes to the UN's "Gender Equality" SDG by creating an inclusive learning environment that empowers women and girls to pursue engineering careers. Here's how: Accessible Education: The online platform removes geographical barriers, potentially reaching women in remote locations who may not have access to traditional engineering programs. This can open doors for a more diverse  workforce. Mentorship Opportunities: The one-on-one mentorship program can connect female students with experienced women in engineering. This can provide role models, address imposter syndrome, and offer valuable career guidance While MAT doesn't explicitly target women, its focus on accessible, skills-based learning and mentorship can play a role in dismantling barriers and encouraging more women to enter and excel in the field of engineering, contributing to a more gender-balanced industry.

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

Madesoft Academy (MAT) contributes to the Clean WATER AND SANITATION SDG by equipping engineering students with the skills and knowledge necessary to address water-related challenges. Through its digitalized web-based platform, MAT provides practical, hands-on training and mentorship from industry experts, fostering a deep understanding of water and sanitation engineering. The virtual simulation lab enables trainees to apply their learning to real-world scenarios, including water treatment and sanitation processes. By using industry-standard tools and technologies in their project-based courses, MAT ensures that students are well-prepared to develop innovative solutions for clean water and sanitation systems. This comprehensive approach helps bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry needs, empowering future engineers to contribute effectively to the global goal of ensuring access to 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

Madesoft Academy (MAT) contributes to the United Nations' Affordable and Clean Energy SDG by equipping future engineers with the necessary skills and knowledge to innovate in the energy sector. MAT's hands-on, practical training via its digital platform ensures students are adept at using industry-standard tools and technologies. This approach fosters the development of energy-efficient technologies and sustainable engineering practices. By simulating real-world engineering processes, MAT helps students understand the complexities of creating affordable and clean energy solutions, ultimately driving progress toward global energy sustainability goals.

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

MAT significantly contributes to the UN's Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of decent work and economic growth by bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry needs. Through its digital platform, MAT offers practical, hands-on training that equips students with the skills and knowledge required for the modern workforce. By matching students with industry experts for one-on-one mentorship and utilizing a virtual simulation lab, MAT enables trainees to gain real-world experience and develop practical problem-solving skills. This approach ensures that learners are well-prepared for productive employment and can excel in their engineering careers. The interactive nature of the platform, which provides immediate feedback and progress tracking, fosters continuous learning and skill enhancement. MAT promotes sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth by producing a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of today's engineering industry.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Madesoft Academy (MAT) contributes to the UN's "Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure" SDG by empowering future engineers to develop solutions for sustainable infrastructure and promote industrial innovation. MAT equips graduates with the skills and knowledge required for innovation in key engineering fields. This can involve: Designing and developing sustainable infrastructure projects (e.g., renewable energy plants, smart grids). Utilizing advanced technologies for efficient industrial processes. Creating solutions for infrastructure resilience in the face of climate change.   MAT  cultivates innovators. MAT Graduates will possess the skills and mindset to design sustainable infrastructure, improve industrial processes, and drive advancements that contribute to achieving the SDG's goals of inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and resilient infrastructure development.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Madesoft Academy (MAT) significantly contributes to the UN's Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) on Reducing Inequalities by providing equitable access to high-quality engineering education and training. Through its digitalized web-based platform, MAT democratizes education, allowing students from diverse backgrounds, including those in underserved and remote areas, to connect with industry experts for one-on-one mentorship. The virtual simulation lab offers an inclusive learning environment where all trainees can gain practical, hands-on experience regardless of their location or economic status. By focusing on practical skills and real-world applications, MAT bridges the gap between academic knowledge and industry needs, enhancing employability and career prospects for marginalized and underrepresented groups. This approach fosters social mobility and reduces disparities in education and employment opportunities, thereby contributing to reducing inequality within and among countries.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

Madesoft Academy (MAT) significantly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. By providing practical, hands-on engineering training through a digitalized web-based platform, MAT equips students with the skills necessary to address urban challenges. The platform's virtual simulation lab allows trainees to work with models that mimic real-world conditions, fostering practical problem-solving skills essential for sustainable urban development. Through one-on-one mentorship with industry experts and comprehensive, project-based courses, MAT ensures that students are well-prepared to design and implement solutions that enhance the sustainability and resilience of cities and communities. This alignment with industry needs helps create a workforce capable of innovating and maintaining infrastructure that supports inclusive, safe, and sustainable urban environments.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

Madesoft Academy (MAT) contributes to the Responsible Consumption and Production SDG by promoting a circular economy through its innovative educational platform. MAT's digitalized training minimizes resource use by providing virtual simulation labs where students can practice and refine their engineering skills without the need for physical materials, reducing waste and resource consumption. By integrating project-based courses with industry-standard tools, MAT educates students on sustainable engineering practices, including resource efficiency and waste minimization. The platform’s emphasis on practical, hands-on learning and problem-solving skills ensures that trainees are equipped to develop and implement sustainable solutions in their future careers, fostering a generation of engineers committed to responsible consumption and production.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Madesoft Academy (MAT) contributes to the Climate Action SDG by empowering future engineers with practical skills to develop sustainable solutions. Through its digitalized platform, MAT emphasizes green engineering practices, renewable energy systems, and environmental impact analysis. By simulating real-world engineering processes, trainees learn to design and implement eco-friendly technologies, enhancing their ability to address climate change challenges. This approach fosters a generation of engineers equipped to innovate and apply sustainable practices, directly supporting efforts to combat climate change and mitigate its impacts.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

Madesoft Academy (MAT) contributes to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14: Life Below Water by incorporating marine engineering and sustainable practices into its curriculum. MAT's digitalized platform offers project-based courses and virtual simulations that allow students to engage with real-world challenges related to ocean conservation. By collaborating with industry experts, MAT ensures that students gain knowledge in sustainable marine resource management, pollution control, and innovative technologies for ocean preservation. These initiatives help develop a new generation of engineers equipped to protect and sustainably use marine ecosystems.

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

MAT contributes to the Life on Land SDG by educating and training future engineers in sustainable practices. Through its digitalized web-based platform, MAT offers courses that emphasize sustainable engineering principles and technologies. By providing one-on-one mentorship with industry experts and a virtual simulation lab, MAT ensures that trainees understand the importance of sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, forest management, and combating desertification. Trainees engage in real-world simulations that include scenarios on land restoration, sustainable resource management, and biodiversity conservation, helping to instill practices that promote environmental sustainability in their professional careers. This approach equips the next generation of engineers with the knowledge and skills needed to protect, restore, and sustainably manage natural resources, thereby contributing to the overall goals of halting and reversing land degradation and biodiversity loss.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Madesoft Academy (MAT) contributes to the PEACE, JUSTICE, AND STRONG INSTITUTIONS SDG by fostering an environment of inclusive education and equal opportunities, which are foundational to peaceful and just societies. By bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry needs, MAT empowers students with practical skills, reducing unemployment and economic disparities. The one-on-one mentorship with industry experts and the use of virtual simulation labs ensure that education is accessible and equitable, promoting lifelong learning opportunities. By training future engineers to solve real-world problems, MAT supports the development of competent professionals who can contribute to building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels. This holistic approach helps create a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, thereby promoting peace and justice.

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Madesoft Academy (MAT) actively contributes to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering collaboration between academia and industry. By providing a digitalized platform that connects students with industry experts for one-on-one mentorship, MAT strengthens the means of implementation through capacity-building and technology transfer. The platform's virtual simulation labs and project-based courses integrate industry-standard tools and technologies, ensuring that trainees gain practical skills aligned with current industry needs. This collaborative approach not only enhances educational outcomes but also revitalizes global partnerships by bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, creating a skilled workforce ready to meet global engineering challenges.

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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

4

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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

7 - Strongly Agree

06.08 Justification for my startup

Madesoft Academy builds on existing educational models but represents a significant improvement by offering practical, hands-on engineering training through a digitalized platform. It responds to the demand for practical skills that traditional education often lacks, filling a gap in the market. While similar products exist, Madesoft Academy's virtual simulation lab and one-on-one mentorship set it apart as a new version of an old concept, enhancing learning outcomes. It extends the range of educational services by integrating industry-standard tools and technologies, making it a novel approach to engineering education.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Madesoft Academy's main potential competitors include traditional engineering education institutions and online learning platforms. What sets Madesoft Academy apart is its focus on practical, industry-relevant training through a digital platform. We offer one-on-one mentorship, a virtual simulation lab, and project-based courses with real-world tools, ensuring students develop hands-on skills. This approach bridges the gap between academic knowledge and industry needs, preparing graduates to excel in their engineering careers from day one.

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

  Yes, I am actively involved in initiatives to promote the role of female entrepreneurs in our community. In 2018, I founded Esopos, a startup dedicated to supporting small business owners, most of whom are women, by providing them with free access to essential software tools. These tools are designed to help them run their businesses efficiently and profitably. One of the key initiatives I have championed through Esopos is the campaign to encourage small business owners, predominantly women, to integrate technology into their daily operations. This campaign is aimed at showing them how technology can streamline processes, reduce costs, and ultimately increase their profitability. By making these tools accessible at no cost, we are lowering the barrier to entry and enabling more women to benefit from technological advancements. Through Esopos, I have been able to reach a significant number of female entrepreneurs, providing them with the resources and knowledge they need to thrive.