Nigeria - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Volunteerly: Where Talent Meets Purpose. A dynamic network connecting volunteers, nonprofits, and funders to solve urgent problems and uplift communities. Build meaningful connections and make a lasting impact with your skills.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Volunteerly bridges the gap between skilled volunteers and nonprofits in need of expertise. Our platform offers 24 cause areas and 35 skill sets, providing volunteers with opportunities that align with their passions and abilities. By facilitating connections through an easy-to-navigate interface, Volunteerly empowers individuals to contribute to meaningful projects. Volunteers can explore, apply, and get matched with projects ranging from 5 to 50 hours, helping them to build their portfolios and create impactful change. Nonprofits benefit from specialized support, enhancing their capacity to serve their communities effectively.

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

As a software engineer in Nigeria, I was eager to volunteer my skills to support local nonprofits. However, I found it incredibly challenging to identify organizations that needed my expertise. The process was fragmented and inefficient, limiting the potential for impactful volunteer work. This experience highlighted a significant gap in the system—nonprofits across Nigeria and Africa were struggling to access the skilled volunteers they desperately needed to advance their missions and contribute to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as quality education, gender equality, and climate action. Volunteerly was born from this need to create a streamlined platform that connects skilled volunteers with nonprofits in need. Our platform ensures that volunteers can easily find and engage with projects that match their skills and interests, while nonprofits gain access to the expertise required to achieve their goals and enhance their community impact.

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

1. Accelerated SDG Progress: By connecting skilled volunteers with nonprofits, Volunteerly significantly contributes to the advancement of SDGs across Nigeria and Africa. Volunteers support initiatives in areas like education, healthcare, and sustainable development, driving positive change. 2. Enhanced Volunteer Experience: Volunteers can easily find and apply for projects that match their skills and passions, ensuring a fulfilling and impactful experience. This helps them build their resumes, expand their networks, and gain valuable experience. 3. Increased Nonprofit Capacity: Nonprofits benefit from a pool of skilled volunteers who provide specialized support, helping them to execute projects more efficiently and effectively. This increased capacity allows nonprofits to reach more beneficiaries and amplify their impact.

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

Volunteerly serves skilled professionals seeking meaningful volunteer opportunities, nonprofits in need of expertise, and funders looking to support impactful community projects. Our primary beneficiaries are: Volunteers: Individuals eager to use their skills to make a difference, build their portfolios, and expand their professional networks. Nonprofits: Organizations seeking specialized skills to enhance their capacity, achieve project goals, and serve their communities better. Funders: Entities looking to invest in high-impact volunteer initiatives that address urgent community needs and foster sustainable development.

01.05 When was your company established?

2024-02-05

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

No

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

0

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

0

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

N/A

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

http://volunteerly.org

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

j) Public services

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Volunteerly significantly contributes to the No Poverty goal by empowering nonprofits that work directly with impoverished communities across Nigeria and Africa. Our platform connects skilled volunteers with these organizations, enabling them to implement and enhance programs that provide education, vocational training, and economic opportunities to those in need. By supporting nonprofits in areas such as financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and job skills training, Volunteerly helps create pathways out of poverty. Additionally, our impact stories and project outcomes highlight successful initiatives, encouraging further funding and support for poverty alleviation programs. Through these efforts, Volunteerly plays a critical role in reducing poverty and promoting sustainable economic growth in underserved regions.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Volunteerly contributes to the Zero Hunger goal by connecting skilled volunteers with nonprofits focused on food security, nutrition, and sustainable agriculture. Our platform enables experts in agriculture, nutrition, and food technology to collaborate with organizations that aim to improve food production methods, distribute nutritious food, and educate communities on healthy eating practices. Through volunteer-led projects, we support initiatives that enhance agricultural productivity, promote sustainable farming techniques, and reduce food waste. These efforts help to ensure a steady food supply, improve the nutritional status of vulnerable populations, and build resilient agricultural communities across Nigeria and Africa. By facilitating these critical connections, Volunteerly plays a vital role in addressing hunger and fostering sustainable food systems.

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

Volunteerly strongly contributes to the Good Health and Well-being goal by connecting healthcare professionals and wellness experts with nonprofits focused on improving health outcomes in Nigeria and Africa. Our platform facilitates volunteer engagement in projects that address critical health issues, such as maternal and child health, disease prevention, mental health, and access to healthcare services. Volunteers provide vital support in areas like medical training, health education, and the implementation of community health initiatives. By enhancing the capacity of health-focused nonprofits, Volunteerly helps to increase the reach and effectiveness of health programs, leading to better health outcomes and improved quality of life for underserved populations. Through these efforts, Volunteerly promotes comprehensive health and well-being, ensuring that more individuals have access to the care and resources they need.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

Volunteerly contributes to the Quality Education goal by facilitating access to educational opportunities and resources for individuals across Nigeria and Africa. Our platform connects skilled volunteers with nonprofits dedicated to improving education outcomes, including schools, educational institutions, and youth organizations. Volunteers support initiatives such as teacher training, curriculum development, literacy programs, and access to educational technology. By leveraging their expertise, volunteers help enhance the quality of education, promote lifelong learning, and ensure that all individuals, regardless of background, have access to quality educational opportunities. Through these efforts, Volunteerly plays a crucial role in advancing education and empowering individuals to reach their full potential.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Volunteerly actively contributes to the Gender Equality goal by promoting the participation and empowerment of women and girls across Nigeria and Africa. Our platform connects volunteers with nonprofits that focus on gender equality initiatives, including women's empowerment programs, girls' education projects, and advocacy campaigns. Volunteers provide crucial support in areas such as mentorship, skill-building, and advocacy, helping to break down barriers and create opportunities for women and girls to thrive. By engaging volunteers in gender equality efforts, Volunteerly fosters a more inclusive and equitable society where women and girls can fully participate and lead.

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

Volunteerly contributes to the Clean Water and Sanitation goal by supporting nonprofits that work to improve access to clean water and sanitation facilities in Nigeria and Africa. Our platform connects volunteers with organizations that implement water and sanitation projects, including infrastructure development, hygiene education, and community outreach. Volunteers provide technical expertise, project management support, and capacity-building assistance, helping to enhance water and sanitation systems and promote sustainable practices. Through volunteer-led initiatives, Volunteerly contributes to ensuring that all individuals have access to clean water and sanitation facilities, leading to improved health outcomes and enhanced quality of life.

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

Volunteerly contributes to the Affordable and Clean Energy goal by supporting nonprofits that promote access to affordable, reliable, and clean energy solutions in Nigeria and Africa. Our platform connects volunteers with organizations that implement renewable energy projects, energy efficiency initiatives, and community outreach programs. Volunteers provide technical expertise, project management support, and capacity-building assistance, helping to accelerate the transition to clean energy and expand access to sustainable energy sources. Through volunteer-led efforts, Volunteerly contributes to enhancing energy access, promoting environmental sustainability, and driving economic development across the region.

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

Volunteerly contributes to the Decent Work and Economic Growth goal by connecting skilled volunteers with nonprofits that promote entrepreneurship, job training, and economic development initiatives in Nigeria and Africa. Our platform enables volunteers to support organizations that provide vocational training, business mentorship, and employment opportunities to underserved communities. Volunteers contribute their expertise in areas such as business development, financial literacy, and digital skills training, helping to empower individuals to secure decent work and build sustainable livelihoods. Through volunteer-led projects, Volunteerly fosters economic growth, promotes inclusive prosperity, and creates opportunities for all individuals to thrive in the workforce.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

5

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Volunteerly contributes to the Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure goal by connecting skilled professionals with nonprofits that focus on building resilient infrastructure and fostering innovation across Nigeria and Africa. Our platform enables volunteers to support projects that enhance technological development, improve infrastructure, and promote sustainable industrial practices. By providing expertise in engineering, IT, project management, and other technical fields, volunteers help nonprofits implement innovative solutions, improve operational efficiencies, and build sustainable infrastructure. These efforts drive economic growth, enhance industry capabilities, and promote inclusive development, thereby contributing to resilient and innovative communities.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Volunteerly significantly contributes to reducing inequalities by providing a platform that connects skilled volunteers with nonprofits in underserved regions, particularly in Nigeria and Africa. By facilitating access to a diverse range of skills and expertise, we help bridge the resource gap faced by many nonprofits. This empowers these organizations to address social, economic, and educational disparities more effectively. Furthermore, Volunteerly promotes inclusivity by ensuring that opportunities are available to individuals from various backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. This inclusive approach helps reduce inequality both within local communities and on a broader scale.

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

Volunteerly contributes to the Sustainable Cities and Communities goal by connecting volunteers with nonprofits focused on urban development, environmental sustainability, and community resilience. Our platform facilitates projects that enhance urban planning, promote green infrastructure, and improve community services in cities across Nigeria and Africa. Volunteers bring expertise in urban planning, environmental science, and civil engineering to support initiatives that create inclusive, safe, and sustainable urban environments. By fostering community engagement and supporting sustainable development projects, Volunteerly helps build resilient cities that are better equipped to face future challenges.

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

Volunteerly contributes to the Responsible Consumption and Production goal by supporting nonprofits that promote sustainable practices and resource efficiency. Our platform connects volunteers with expertise in environmental management, waste reduction, and sustainable business practices to organizations focused on reducing environmental impact and promoting responsible consumption. Volunteers help implement projects that encourage recycling, sustainable agriculture, and eco-friendly manufacturing. By facilitating these initiatives, Volunteerly fosters a culture of sustainability, reduces waste, and promotes the efficient use of resources, contributing to a healthier planet and more sustainable communities.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Volunteerly contributes to the Climate Action goal by connecting volunteers with nonprofits that focus on climate change mitigation and adaptation projects. Our platform enables experts in environmental science, renewable energy, and climate policy to support initiatives that address the impacts of climate change in Nigeria and Africa. Volunteers assist with projects such as reforestation, sustainable agriculture, climate education, and renewable energy deployment. By enhancing the capacity of organizations to implement climate action strategies, Volunteerly helps build resilience to climate impacts and promotes sustainable practices that mitigate climate change.

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

Volunteerly contributes to the Life Below Water goal by supporting nonprofits focused on marine conservation and sustainable use of ocean resources. Our platform connects marine biologists, environmental scientists, and conservation experts with organizations that work to protect marine ecosystems, reduce pollution, and promote sustainable fishing practices. Volunteers help implement projects such as coastal cleanups, marine habitat restoration, and community education on marine conservation. By providing expertise and support to these initiatives, Volunteerly helps preserve marine biodiversity and promote the sustainable use of ocean resources.

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

Volunteerly contributes to the Life on Land goal by connecting volunteers with nonprofits focused on terrestrial ecosystem conservation and sustainable land management. Our platform supports initiatives that protect forests, combat desertification, and promote biodiversity. Volunteers with expertise in forestry, agriculture, and environmental science assist with reforestation projects, soil conservation, and wildlife protection programs. By enhancing the capacity of organizations to manage natural resources sustainably, Volunteerly helps protect terrestrial ecosystems, restore degraded lands, and conserve biodiversity, contributing to a healthier and more resilient environment.

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

Volunteerly contributes to the Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions goal by supporting nonprofits that promote social justice, human rights, and institutional transparency. Our platform connects volunteers with expertise in law, governance, and community organizing to organizations working to strengthen legal frameworks, enhance civic engagement, and promote accountability. Volunteers assist with initiatives such as legal aid, human rights advocacy, and anti-corruption campaigns. By empowering nonprofits to build strong, inclusive institutions, Volunteerly fosters peaceful societies where justice and rule of law prevail, contributing to sustainable development and social stability.

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

Volunteerly contributes to the Partnerships for the Goals goal by facilitating collaboration between volunteers, nonprofits, and funders to achieve sustainable development objectives. Our platform fosters partnerships by connecting skilled professionals with organizations that need their expertise, promoting cross-sector collaboration and resource sharing. Volunteers support nonprofits in implementing projects that align with the SDGs, enhancing their impact and effectiveness. By creating a network of engaged stakeholders working towards common goals, Volunteerly strengthens the means of implementation and accelerates progress towards sustainable development, fostering a spirit of global cooperation and partnership.

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

4

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

3

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

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

6

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.

3

06.08 Justification for my startup

As a software engineer in Nigeria, I was eager to volunteer my skills to support local nonprofits. However, I found it incredibly challenging to identify organizations that needed my expertise. The process was fragmented and inefficient, limiting the potential for impactful volunteer work. This experience highlighted a significant gap in the system—nonprofits across Nigeria and Africa were struggling to access the skilled volunteers they desperately needed to advance their missions and contribute to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as quality education, gender equality, and climate action. Volunteerly was born from this need to create a streamlined platform that connects skilled volunteers with nonprofits in need. Our platform ensures that volunteers can easily find and engage with projects that match their skills and interests, while nonprofits gain access to the expertise required to achieve their goals and enhance their community impact.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main competitors include Catchafire, Taproot Foundation, and VolunteerMatch. However, Volunteerly stands out in several key ways: Focus on Nigeria and Africa: Volunteerly is tailored specifically to address the unique challenges and needs of nonprofits in Nigeria and Africa, fostering local impact. Skill-Specific Matching: Our AI-driven matching system pairs volunteers with projects that align with their skills and interests, ensuring more effective and satisfying volunteer experiences. Diverse Cause Areas: We offer opportunities across 24 cause areas and 35 skill sets, providing volunteers with a wide range of options to find projects they are passionate about. Comprehensive Support: We provide end-to-end support, including impact stories for volunteers to showcase their work, enhancing their resumes and professional networks. These differentiators ensure that Volunteerly not only connects volunteers and nonprofits but also maximizes the impact and satisfaction for all involved.

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

Yes, we are actively promoting the role of female entrepreneurs within our community. We organize workshops and mentorship programs specifically for women, highlighting successful female leaders in the nonprofit sector. Additionally, we collaborate with women's organizations to provide resources and support for female entrepreneurs looking to volunteer their skills and expand their networks.