Ethiopia - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Kara is a transportation app that harnesses the power of community-driven ridesharing, taking inspiration from the traditional practice of hitchhiking and adapting it to the modern urban landscape : connecting drivers with available seats to passengers.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

In response to the growing transportation challenges and the pressing need to address the city's fuel-related concerns, we propose the development of a comprehensive ride-sharing and mobility app, named "Kara." Kara is a transportation app that connects drivers with available seats in their vehicles to passengers seeking rides within the city. By leveraging the concept of hitchhiking in a safe and streamlined digital platform, Kara aims to provide a very flexible, cost-effective, and environmentally-friendly transportation solution for urban residents. The app also enables city residents to share rides and access a variety of sustainable mobility options. The app will function as a platform that connects drivers and passengers, facilitating efficient and environmentally-conscious transportation.

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

The app aims to address the growing transportation challenges and fuel-related concerns in the city. The main issues it seeks to solve are the limitations of traditional public transportation, which often fails to adequately serve all areas or meet the diverse needs of residents, and the lack of affordable and flexible transportation alternatives. Many urban residents, particularly low-income individuals and students, struggle to access reliable and cost-effective transportation options. There is a pressing need for a more flexible and on-demand transportation solution that can adapt to the changing mobility requirements of city dwellers. By developing the Kara app, the aim is to provide a comprehensive solution to these challenges. The app will connect drivers with available seats to passengers, enabling efficient ride-sharing and reducing the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the roads. In doing so, Kara will offer a cheap, flexible, and environmentally-friendly transportation.

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

The app's unique emphasis on community engagement and empowerment is a key aspect. Kara fosters a shared transportation network where users collaborate to support a more efficient and sustainable mobility system. By connecting individuals with available seats to those in need of rides, the app promotes a collaborative model that allows users to actively shape the future of transportation. Its also benefits an eco-friendly transportation practices through ride-sharing and carpooling, addressing the accessibility and affordability challenges of traditional public transportation, and fostering a shared transportation. Kara's also on-demand service model and adaptability to diverse user needs ensure reliable and convenient transportation access for all, including underserved communities and individuals with limited mobility. By leveraging ride-sharing, the app provides a cost-effective alternative to private transportation, making it more accessible to low-income individuals and students.

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

By addressing the diverse transportation challenges faced daily, Kara aims to improve accessibility, affordability, and sustainability within the urban transportation system, ensuring that everyone has access to reliable mobility solutions. Underserved and low-income urban communities, providing them with accessible and affordable mobility options. Individuals with limited mobility, catering to their specific transportation needs through a flexible and on-demand service model. Students and young professionals, offering a cost-effective ride-sharing alternative to traditional public transportation. Environmentally-conscious urban residents, promoting sustainable transportation practices through ride-sharing and carpooling.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-11-10

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

4

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

1

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

Natnael, Full-Stack Develover Proficient in both front-end and back-end web development technologies, such as JavaScript (React/Node.js), Python, and SQL Experience in building scalable, high-performance web applications and APIs Expertise in designing and integrating complex, distributed systems Abel, Mobile App Developer: Experienced in developing cross-platform mobile applications for both iOS and Android platforms Proficient in mobile app development frameworks and tools, such as React Native, Flutter, or native iOS and Android SDKs Expertise in designing user-friendly and responsive mobile interfaces that prioritize usability and accessibility Dagmawit, DevOps Engineer: Proficient in cloud infrastructure management and automation, using tools like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Experience in setting up and maintaining scalable, secure, and reliable application deployment pipelines

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

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brook-gashe-89a134210/

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

h) IT (digital services, equipment and software)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

Improving Accessibility and Mobility: By providing affordable and accessible transportation options to low-income urban residents, the app can help improve their access to essential services and economic opportunities, reducing barriers to poverty alleviation. Reducing Transportation Costs: The app's ride-sharing model and focus on affordability can significantly lower the transportation expenses for its users, freeing up financial resources for other essential needs. Promoting Income Opportunities: The app's platform can create income-generating opportunities for individuals to become drivers or service providers, providing a reliable source of supplementary income and contributing to financial stability. Fostering Inclusive Mobility: By addressing the transportation inequities faced by underserved and low-income communities, the app can help reduce the risk of social exclusion and marginalization, which are often drivers of poverty.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

6

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Improved Access to Food Sources: Providing affordable transportation options to connect low-income communities with grocery stores, farmers' markets, and other food sources. Supporting Local Food Production and Distribution: Facilitating the distribution of locally produced agricultural goods from rural to urban areas, strengthening sustainable food supply chains. Enabling Food Emergency Response: Rapidly mobilizing and distributing food aid and relief supplies during emergencies, enhancing the efficiency of food security efforts. Promoting Education and Awareness: Using the app as a platform to disseminate information and resources related to sustainable agriculture, healthy eating, and food waste reduction.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

Improved Access to Healthcare: Providing affordable transportation to healthcare facilities, enabling better utilization of essential services and preventive care. Emergency Medical Transportation: Quickly mobilizing and coordinating the transport of patients to healthcare facilities in emergency situations. Supporting Healthcare Workforce: Assisting healthcare workers in reaching remote or underserved areas to deliver essential services.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Enabling Access to Educational Resources: Transporting students and teachers to libraries, educational centers, and community resources to enhance the quality of education. Improved Access to Educational Institutions: Providing affordable and reliable transportation to schools, colleges, and other educational facilities, increasing enrollment, attendance, and retention. Supporting Distance and Online Learning: Facilitating transportation to access online and distance learning platforms, especially in remote or underserved areas.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Improving Women's Mobility and Access: Providing affordable and safe transportation options to enable women and girls to access essential services, education, and employment. Enhancing Women's Economic Participation: Facilitating the transportation of women entrepreneurs, workers, and professionals to support their economic empowerment. Promoting Women's Leadership and Decision-Making: Transporting women to leadership training programs and decision-making forums to increase their representation and influence. Addressing Gender-Based Violence: Offering safe transportation options for women and girls to access support services and escape abusive situations. Supporting Women's Health and Well-being: Enabling women's access to healthcare facilities, including maternal and reproductive health services. Promoting Gender-Responsive Policies and Practices: Using the app as a platform to advocate for gender-responsive transportation policies and practices.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

5

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Improving Access to Water and Sanitation Infrastructure: Transporting workers and technicians to install, maintain, and repair water and sanitation systems in remote or underserved areas. Supporting Water Quality Monitoring and Testing: Facilitating the transport of water quality testing teams and equipment to enable comprehensive water quality monitoring and analysis.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

By enabling the transport of technicians and repair crews to maintain and service renewable energy systems, ensuring their continued operation and efficiency. By transporting community members, technicians, and entrepreneurs to training programs and workshops on renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency practices.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

mproving access to employment opportunities by providing reliable transportation services. Supporting the growth and competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by facilitating the transport of goods, supplies, and workers. Enabling access to training and skill development programs to build a more capable workforce. Facilitating the transport of agricultural and informal sector goods to connect workers to broader economic opportunities. Supporting the development of the transportation and logistics sectors, creating new jobs and economic diversification. Promoting more equitable and inclusive economic growth by addressing transportation barriers, particularly in underserved communities.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

4

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Promoting sustainable transportation infrastructure by facilitating the efficient movement of people and goods. Enabling access to industrial and innovation hubs, fostering collaboration and economic opportunities. Supporting the adoption of new technologies by transporting equipment, materials, and technicians. Enhancing supply chain resilience through reliable and efficient transportation services. Facilitating the modernization of industrial processes through the transportation of workers, equipment, and data. Promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization by addressing transportation barriers.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Improving access to opportunities, such as employment, education, and healthcare, for marginalized and underserved communities. Enabling mobility for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and people with disabilities, to ensure their access to essential resources. Facilitating inclusive economic participation by supporting the transportation needs of small-scale entrepreneurs and informal sector workers. Promoting equitable access to public services by integrating with or supporting public transportation systems. Supporting the development of inclusive cities and communities by addressing transportation barriers and fostering social cohesion. Fostering partnerships and collaboration between government, private sector, and community organizations to jointly address transportation-related inequalities.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Promoting sustainable urban mobility by supporting the development and utilization of public transit, carpooling, and non-motorized transportation options. Improving accessibility and inclusivity by enhancing access to jobs, education, healthcare, and other essential services, particularly for marginalized communities. Supporting resilient transportation infrastructure that can better withstand the impacts of natural disasters and climate change. Enabling data-driven urban planning and decision-making through the generation of valuable transportation data. Facilitating sustainable connectivity between urban, peri-urban, and rural areas to bridge the urban-rural divide. Fostering citizen engagement and collaboration in the development of sustainable mobility solutions.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Promoting sustainable mobility by encouraging the use of public transit, carpooling, and electric vehicles, thereby reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Supporting the circular economy by facilitating the transportation of goods and materials within a closed-loop system, enabling the collection, redistribution, and reuse of products and resources. Enabling the sharing economy through ride-sharing and vehicle-sharing capabilities, reducing individual ownership and promoting more efficient utilization of assets and resources. Improving transportation efficiency by optimizing routes, logistics, and vehicle utilization, which can lead to reduced fuel consumption and environmental impact. Fostering sustainable procurement practices by supporting the integration of eco-friendly transportation services, such as low-emission vehicles or sustainable logistics providers, into business and organizational operations.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

4

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: By promoting the use of sustainable transportation modes, such as public transit, carpooling, and electric vehicles, the app can help lower greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector, contributing to climate change mitigation. Improving Energy Efficiency: The app's data-driven optimization capabilities can enhance the overall energy efficiency of transportation, reducing fuel consumption and energy-related emissions, supporting the transition towards more sustainable energy use. Supporting the Transition to Renewable Energy: The app can integrate with or support the adoption of renewable energy solutions, such as electric vehicle charging infrastructure, further decarbonizing the transportation sector.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

2

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

The app's capabilities can support the development of sustainable tourism practices, such as promoting low-impact transportation options for visitors to coastal and marine destinations, mitigating the environmental pressures associated with tourism in these sensitive areas.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

5

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Reducing Land-Based Pollution: The app promotes the use of sustainable transportation modes, such as public transit, carpooling, and electric vehicles, which can help reduce the release of pollutants, including particulate matter and other transportation-related contaminants, onto land and in terrestrial ecosystems.

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

5

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Promoting Equitable Access to Transportation: The app can help ensure equitable access to transportation services, regardless of an individual's socioeconomic status, location, or other factors, promoting social inclusion and a more just and equitable society. Enhancing Transparency and Accountability: The app can provide users with real-time information on transportation options, schedules, and pricing, increasing the transparency of the transportation system and helping to hold transportation providers and authorities accountable. Reducing Corruption and Bribery: By automating and digitizing transportation-related transactions and payments, the app can help reduce opportunities for corruption and bribery, contributing to the development of more transparent and accountable institutions.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Enhancing Public-Private Partnerships: The app can enable and strengthen public-private partnerships by providing a framework for collaboration between government agencies, private transportation providers, and technology companies, leveraging the expertise and resources of both sectors. Facilitating Knowledge-Sharing and Capacity-Building: The app can serve as a platform for the exchange of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise among cities, transportation authorities, and other stakeholders, helping to build the capacity of institutions and communities.

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

6

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

3

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

5

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

6

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

5

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

6

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

4

05.08 Justification

The fact that there are already similar products and services in use suggests that there is an established customer base and identified need that the Kara app can tap into. This provides a solid foundation for the app to potentially gain traction and adoption. On top of that, e app seems to be incorporating new technologies and approaches to enhance the transportation experience

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

The main potential competitors for the Kara app are existing ride-sharing and mobility services & Public transportation systems. By providing improved accessibility and sustainability meaning that it prioritizes accessibility for underserved communities and individuals with mobility challenges. And also it mphasizes eco-friendly and sustainable transportation options

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

Yes, the Kara transportation app project is actively initiating actions within our community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs By establishing a dedicated mentorship program that pairs aspiring female entrepreneurs with successful business leaders in our community. These mentors provide guidance, advice, and support to help the mentees develop their entrepreneurial skills and navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business. And By Networking and Collaboration Opportunities: We organize regular networking events and workshops specifically targeted at female entrepreneurs. These events create a supportive environment for women to connect with each other, share best practices, and explore potential collaborations.