Nigeria - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

My project addresses oral health issues in Awgu , by providing education and services to address resource and awareness deficits, aligning with United Nations Social Development Goals for improved health and well-being.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

This innovation seeks to provide comprehensive dental services to the people of Awgu local government area. An area that currently has only one dental clinic serving 18 towns and 40 communities under it. This innovation addresses resource scarcity and low awareness needed to maintain good oral health care with a focus on accessibility, affordability, alignment with the United Nations SDGs, and is driven by the belief that a healthy smile is a fundamental right, and everyone deserves it, regardless of the socio-economic status of the individual. its initiatives include to provide permanent mobile dental clinic near the local government headquarter, introduce tele-dental services, use mobile dental unit to provide free basic dental services like professional cleaning and oral health education during the outreach programs and for those who cannot come to the clinic, introduce weekly radio programs, form an oral health club and incorporate oral health education into the school system.

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

The main problem that this innovation is addressing is the lack of dental resource scarcity as dental care facilities and low level of oral health awareness among the people which is worsened by the local government having only one dental clinic serving the people in 18 towns and 40 communities that are under it.

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

The impact of this project would be multifaceted. Firstly, incorporating school education initiatives will enhance children's dental habits since they are still in habit formation age and reach a diverse range of families represented in schools will increase awareness and knowledge about oral health leading to improved oral health practices and the prevention of dental diseases. Secondly, by offering basic dental services such as check-ups, and cleanings during outreaches will address existing oral health problems and prevent further complications for those with dental problems. Finally, by providing two mobile dental units, one permanently closer to the local government as central point and incorporating tele-dentistry alongside the other mobile dental units on outreaches and home services will make it possible for all the people to receive the care they need in the same order, making dental care accessible to all. The "My Teeth and Me" radio program will help sustain these efforts.

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

The primary beneficiaries of this project are the residents of people of Awgu local government area both the poor, the rich, male , female etc. and other neighboring local government area who are interested.

01.05 When was your company established?

2024-09-17

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

No

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

7

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

3

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

Our startup is spearheaded by a diverse group of professionals, each bringing a unique set of skills and experiences to enhance our dental service program: The team includes a dentist, a dental technologist, a dental nurse, two dental therapists, a computer operator/IT specialist, and a biomedical engineer. The dentist delivers precision in dental procedures, while the technologists craft high-quality dental appliances. The dental nurse provides empathetic support during procedures and spearheads community health initiatives. The dental therapists are experts in professional dental cleaning and patient education, promoting oral health awareness and community well-being. The IT specialist manages patient registrations and ensures seamless operation of tele-dentistry services. The biomedical engineer maintains the medical equipment, including the innovative mobile dental clinic. These professionals are skilled and experienced in their various fields.

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

https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-ude-71735b211/

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

f) Healthcare (healthcare equipment and services)

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

This startup contributes to the No Poverty goal by providing essential dental care services to these underserved communities under this local government and by making dental care accessible to all people it introduces tele-dentistry and mobile dental units. The initiative aims to reduce poverty by reducing long-term dental disease costs, increasing awareness, promoting preventive care through free educational programs, and rendering basic services like professional cleaning. and school-based oral health clubs. This holistic approach not only improves individual health but. also contributes to the economic stability of the people by preventing loss of productivity due to oral diseases. These initiatives embody the spirit of SDG 1 by ensuring that even the most marginalized have access to necessary and affordable dental health services, thereby taking a significant step toward eradicating poverty.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

This startup’s contribution to the Zero Hunger goal is indirect but significant. Improving oral health allows individuals to eat without discomfort, which is essential for proper nutrition since the oral cavity is the gateway to the body. Additionally, educational outreach provides information on nutritious diets, that promote oral health, thus contributing to better overall health and reducing hunger. These initiatives also potentially free up resources within households that affect oral cavities as preventive dental care reduces the need for expensive treatments. This holistic approach to health and well-being supports the broader aim of eradicating hunger by ensuring that individuals are healthy enough to consume and absorb the nutrients they need in their bodies.

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

This startup directly contributes to SDG goal 3 which says Good Health and Well-being by providing quality dental care to the people of Awgu Local Government Area. it is the main goal that this project addresses. incorporating tele-dentistry services, and mobile dental units significantly improve access to health services. It also promotes lifelong healthy habits through educational programs and school integration to reduce the prevalence of oral diseases. The offering of free oral hygiene education and basic dental services during outreaches makes this start-up ensure that good oral health is not a privilege but a fundamental human right that contributes to the overall well-being of the people of Awgu and aligns with the SDG goal 3 core objective.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

The startup contributes to SDG goal 4 which is Quality Education by integrating oral health education into the school curriculum to promote inclusive and equitable quality education ensuring that children from all backgrounds have access to quality health knowledge. It forms an oral health club and conducts educational outreach programs to foster a learning environment that goes beyond traditional subjects and includes practical life skills. This aligns with SDG goal 4, which aims to provide universal primary and secondary education, enhance literacy and numeracy skills, and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. The startup's efforts contribute to creating a more informed and health-conscious generation. Which is a cornerstone of quality education.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

This startup supports SDG goal 5 of Gender Equality by providing equal access to dental care for all genders. By providing avoidable, accessible dental services, free basic dental services during outreaches, educational programs, and integrating oral health into schools, it is empowering women and girls who might face barriers to accessing quality dental care. This initiative helps to close the gender gap in health and contributes to women's overall well-being, allowing them to participate fully in society. Additionally, by promoting gender equality in health, this startup sets a precedent for other services to follow, fostering an environment of inclusivity and equality.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

The startup is promoting clean water and sanitation in the Awgu local government area, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 6 by educating the community about fluoride benefits from clean water, helping them to prevent tooth decay, and maintaining good oral health. it also supports public health and hygiene practices. By providing comprehensive dental services, it is addressing the critical need for clean water in dental hygiene practices. Clean water is essential for various dental procedures, from sterilizing instruments down to rinsing during treatments. These initiatives ensure that these practices can be carried out effectively, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases and promoting overall community health. Moreover, the startup is promoting oral health through educational outreach and school integration, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of clean water for overall well-being.

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

The startup’s approach to providing dental care services in Awgu local government area indirectly supports Sustainable Development Goal 7, which focuses on affordable and clean energy. Introducing tele-dentistry services and mobile dental units is likely to reduce the overall energy consumption associated with traditional dental clinics. Tele-dentistry will minimize the need for patients to travel, thus saving on transportation energy. The mobile units will be designed to utilize energy-efficient equipment and potentially incorporate renewable energy sources like solar power for their operations. This would not only make energy usage more sustainable but also more cost-effective in the long run. Additionally, the educational programs and the “My Teeth and Me” radio show can serve as platforms to promote energy conservation and the use of clean energy within the community. Therefore, there is a justifiable connection between these initiatives and SDG goal 7.

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

The startup aims to provide quality dental care in Awgu local government area, contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 8. The project which will establish a mobile dental clinic and tele-dentistry services will create new job opportunities for dental professionals and support staff within the communities. This will lead to skill development and economic empowerment. The focus on education and preventive care will result in improved oral health, reducing absenteeism from work due to dental issues, and enhancing productivity. The outreach programs and school integration will stimulate local economic activity by increasing demand for dental services. Overall, the startup's impact on essential health services supports economic growth and decent work in the region.

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

This startup’s dedicated to improving dental care in Awgu, supports Sustainable Development Goal 9, which promotes resilient infrastructure, inclusive industrialization, and innovation. By introduction of a mobile dental clinic and tele-dentistry services it represents an innovative approach to healthcare delivery in a region with limited infrastructure. This innovation not only improves access to dental services but also encourages the adoption of new technologies and practices in the healthcare industry. By integrating oral health education into the school system and community outreach it is laying a foundation for a more informed population that values innovation in healthcare. Furthermore, the use of mobile units can inspire other sectors to adopt similar models, potentially leading to broader industrial innovation. In conclusion This initiative contributes to the development of infrastructure and industry, as well as the promotion of innovation in the local economy.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

This startup’s mission to provide equitable dental care in Awgu local government area is in line with Sustainable Development Goal 10, which aims to reduce inequality within and among countries. By offering mobile dental clinics, tele-dentistry services, and educational programs, it is making dental care accessible to underserved populations, regardless of their socio-economic status helping to bridge the gap in healthcare disparities and promoting equality. The free basic dental services during outreaches like professional cleaning it provides ensure that even the most vulnerable communities have access to essential health services. Additionally, the outreach through radio programs and schools will help it to reach a wide audience, including those who may be marginalized or have limited access to healthcare information. This innovative approach to dental care delivery is a step towards reducing inequalities and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to maintain good oral health.

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

This startup’s initiative to improve dental care in Awgu local government area contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 11, which aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. By providing mobile dental clinics and tele-dentistry services, it is helping to create a more sustainable community where good oral health care is accessible to all, contributing to the overall health and well-being of the population. This accessibility helps to reduce travel for dental services which in turn can lower traffic congestion and pollution, aligning with the goal of sustainable cities. The educational aspects of the project promote sustainable practices within the community, further supporting the development of a resilient and healthy urban environment. Its efforts to ensure that everyone, regardless of socio-economic status has access to quality dental care, also supports the goal of creating inclusive communities free from discrimination.

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

This startup’s efforts to improve dental care in Awgu local government area align with Sustainable Development Goal 12, which promotes responsible consumption and production. Its use of mobile dental clinics and tele-dentistry services leads to more efficient use of resources thereby reducing waste associated with traditional dental clinics. The educational programs it offers also help to raise awareness about responsible consumption, encouraging the community to use dental products more efficiently and dispose of them responsibly. Furthermore, it provisions of free basic dental services is ensuring that resources are used to provide essential care to those who need it most, promoting equitable distribution. This startup’s approach to dental care supports the principles of sustainability and responsible resource management.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

6

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

This startup’s initiatives to improve dental care in Awgu local government area contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 13, which calls for urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. While this project may not directly address climate change, it promotes practices that can have a positive environmental impact. The use of mobile dental clinics and tele-dentistry services reduce the need of the patient to travel, thereby decreasing carbon emissions associated with transportation. Since the mobile unit which will be in the local government headquarter is designed to be powered by renewable energy sources it will further reduce the startup’s carbon footprint. Additionally, the educational programs it offers will raise awareness about the importance of environmental sustainability, encouraging the community to adopt practices that mitigate climate change. Therefore, this startup’s efforts align with the broader objectives of climate action.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

5

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

Since the startup’s primary focus is on improving dental care in Awgu local government area, it can indirectly contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 14: which aims to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources through its commitment to education and sustainable practices it promotes life below water. The educational programs and oral hygiene instruction given after dental procedure offers include information about the importance of proper disposal of dental products to prevent them from ending up in water bodies. Moreover, since Mobile dental clinics and tele-dentistry services are designed to reduce water waste, by reducing patient travel, promoting preventive care, and utilizing modern equipment and for the tele-dentistry involves dentists guiding patients to perform simple oral examinations at home, saving water. this will help conserve water resources.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

4

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

The startup’s initiatives to improve dental care in Awgu local government area can indirectly contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 15, which aims to protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. While its primary focus is on dental care, the educational programs it offers raises awareness about the importance of environmental sustainability, including the impact of waste disposal on land ecosystems. For instance, proper disposal of dental products prevents them from ending up in landfills which help to reduces pollution and it also helps in promoting life on land.

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

This startup’s efforts to improve dental care in Awgu local government area align with Sustainable Development Goal 16, which promotes peace, justice, and strong institutions. It provides accessible and affordable dental care, which is promoting social justice by ensuring that everyone, regardless of their socio-economic status has access to quality dental health services. It contributes to a more equitable and peaceful society. Additionally, it educational programs and outreach initiatives foster a sense of community and mutual respect among the people thereby helping in promoting peace. Its establishment of a permanent mobile dental clinic at the local government headquarters also strengthens local institutions by enhancing it capacity to provide essential services. Therefore, this startup’s initiatives contribute to the creation of peaceful, just, and strong communities.

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

This startup’s initiatives to improve dental care in Awgu local government area align with Sustainable Development Goal 17, which emphasizes the importance of partnerships for achieving the goals. By collaborating with local government, schools, and radio stations, it is forming partnerships that are crucial for the success of the project. These partnerships not only enhance the reach and impact of the services but also it fosters a sense of community involvement and shared responsibility. The integration of oral health education into the school system and the “My Teeth and Me” radio program are examples of how partnerships can amplify the impact of the program efforts. Furthermore, its potential collaborations with other health organizations or businesses will provide additional resources and support. Therefore, this startup’s approach embodies the spirit of SDG 17 by leveraging partnerships to achieve a common goal.

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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

This startup’s innovation is evident in its unique approach to dental care, which is a significant departure from traditional models. The startup combination of mobile dental clinics, tele-dentistry, and educational outreach programs to provide dental services is a unique and innovative service. It focuses on regions with limited resources and improves existing services by expanding access and incorporating modern technology is an innovative one. By offering mobile units and home services, the startup extends the range of dental services available in the area, making it more inclusive. The startup ability to addresses the unmet need of accessible dental care in my area make It unique. While dental care is not new, the way this startup aims to delivers these services is a modern interpretation of traditional dental care. Overall, this startup is innovative because it reshapes dental care delivery in a way that is accessible, affordable, and sensitive to the needs of the people.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

The startup main potential competitors are the only one existing dental clinic and any informal dental service providers and it stands out due to its innovative aspects, including mobile dental clinics, tele-dentistry, educational outreach, cultural sensitivity, and free basic services during outreaches. Its introduction of mobile dental units is a significant advancement, offering services directly to communities, while its introduction of tele dentistry helps to offer remote consultations and positions it at the forefront of modern healthcare delivery. it focuses on education through schools and radio programs promotes oral health awareness. It respects local values and customs, ensure better community acceptance. Additionally, it offers of free basic services during outreaches like professional cleaning, distinguishes it from competitors who charges for all services. All these factors collectively make this not just a clinic but a holistic oral health movement.

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

Yes, This initiative aims to support female dental entrepreneurs by establishing mentorship programs where established female dental practitioners and entrepreneurs can guide and support upcoming female entrepreneurs in the dental field, organizing networking events specifically for female dental professionals to connect, share experiences, and foster collaborations, conducting educational workshops on entrepreneurship in healthcare focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities for women in the industry, and creating visibility campaigns for successful female dental entrepreneurs showcasing their contributions to the community and inspiring others. These initiatives not only support female entrepreneurs but also contribute to improving oral health care accessibility and awareness in the Awgu local government area. The goal is to empower women in the community and ensure the innovation's impact is sustainable and far-reaching.