Ethiopia - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Zohan aims to connect clients with skilled workers for various architectural design, construction, and maintenance projects, by developing a comprehensive digital platform, thus meeting the evolving needs of its clientele.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Zohan will be an Architectural Design, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) Company that will leverage the rapid growth of the construction sector, on-demand economy, and advancements in digital platforms to expand its service offerings. By developing a platform, Zohan will aim to connect clients with skilled workers for various architectural design, construction, and maintenance projects. From architects specializing in conceptual designs and drafting to engineers proficient in structural, MEP, civil, and environmental aspects, our platform will ensure access to a diverse pool of talent. We will cater comprehensively to construction needs, from general contracting to specialized trades such as electricians, plumbers, and interior designers. Through this initiative, we will aspire to reshape the landscape of the AEC industry in Ethiopia, promoting sustainability, innovation, and inclusive economic development.

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

The main problem we are focusing on is the issue of unemployment among young people in Ethiopia, particularly graduates from TVET and universities in fields like construction and engineering. The main challenges we are trying to solve are the following: High Unemployment Rates: Our country faces high overall unemployment rates, with young people being disproportionately affected. The inability to secure meaningful employment after investing time and effort in education can lead to emotional distress and depression among young graduates. This psychological toll not only affects individuals but also has broader societal implications. Mismatch of Skills and Job Opportunities: There often exists a mismatch between the skills graduates possess and the job opportunities available in the market. Impact on Economic Growth: High youth unemployment rates can stifle economic growth and development. Unutilized skills and potential among educated youth represent a loss of human capital.

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

Zohan benefits the youth community and AEC industry clients by empowering skilled workers with a platform to showcase their abilities, connect with clients, and access new professional opportunities. By bridging the gap between talent and demand, Zohan enhances career prospects, promotes industry innovation, and ensures reliable service delivery, thereby fostering sustained growth and success in the AEC sector.

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

Our target beneficiaries are professional workers in the field of AEC industry. Zohan provides a diverse range of skilled workers for clients in the design, construction, and maintenance market, including property developers, architectural firms, construction companies, and individual homeowners. For architectural needs, we offer architects for conceptual designs, site analysis, and drafting, with drafters and 3D modelers available. Engineers specialize in structural, MEP, civil, and environmental aspects. Construction services range from general contracting to trades like electricians and plumbers. Interior designers, decorators, and lighting specialists cater to interior projects. For finishing, painters, flooring installers, cabinetmakers, and masons ensure quality results. Maintenance services cover technicians and HVAC specialists. Support roles handle permits, cost estimation, procurement, and safety planning.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-02-01

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

2

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

0

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

Mesay Girma: An accomplished Project Manager, Researcher, and Business Development and Capacity Building Consultant. Over nine years, he has led numerous evaluations contributing to diverse policy objectives. He will be the CEO of our start up; he will collaborate with dynamic professionals to address challenges in connecting property developers with skilled workers. Esayas Abebe: A distinguished Senior Architect, bringing over 8 years of extensive experience in both design and construction to the company. With a profound understanding of architectural principles and a passion for innovative solutions, Esayas has been a cornerstone in the successful completion of numerous high-profile projects.

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

https://zohandesign.com/

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

Zohan will aim to promote inclusive economic development and employment opportunities. Our project's poverty-alleviating impact will be its focus on job creation. Zohan's platform will facilitate access to a wide range of employment opportunities, addressing a significant issue in our country and one of the main reasons for poverty. Our platform will not only provide a pathway for individuals to secure stable income but will also incentivize them to continuously develop their skills, further enhancing their employability and earning potential. Alongside employment generation, the project's emphasis on sustainable construction practices and innovation will align with the principles of environmentally responsible development. By encouraging the adoption of efficient and eco-friendly construction methods, Zohan will help reduce resource consumption, lower environmental impact, and drive cost savings for clients.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Zohan contributes to Zero Hunger by creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and promoting sustainable building practices in the AEC sector. Its projects include infrastructure like schools and healthcare facilities that improve access to nutrition and services. Zohan also provides training for local workers, enhancing employment opportunities and economic stability in communities. These efforts empower communities, strengthen resilience to food insecurity, and align with global goals for sustainable development.

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

Zohan will place the highest priority on the safety of our workers through the rigorous implementation of comprehensive safety protocols and guidelines. These measures will be strictly enforced across our platform to prevent accidents and injuries, thereby fostering a secure and supportive working environment. Looking ahead, one of our upcoming goals at Zohan will be to enhance our safety measures by introducing dedicated emergency response protocols. This will include having emergency services on standby to swiftly address any accidents or incidents that may occur on construction sites. By proactively preparing for emergencies, we will aim to minimize response times and ensure that injured workers receive prompt medical attention, promoting their well-being and reducing the impact of unforeseen events.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Our project is committed to providing high-quality, inclusive, and equitable educational opportunities that promote lifelong learning for all participants. We will achieve this through our comprehensive training program for all professionals in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry, which offers workers the chance to enhance their existing skills or even learn entirely new skill sets. The training will be tailored to the unique needs and learning styles of the diverse AEC workforce we serve, as well as empowering individuals to expand their knowledge, capabilities, and career prospects ensuring that all participants can access and engage with the educational content effectively.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

We will actively promote diversity and inclusion within our workforce, striving for gender balance across all levels of our organization. Our platform algorithm will be designed to prioritize women workers, actively promoting their profiles to the forefront to encourage their participation and visibility within the architectural design, engineering, and construction (AEC) sectors. By leveraging this algorithm, we will aim to ensure that women professionals receive equitable opportunities and recognition for their skills and expertise. Additionally, Zohan will offer incentives specifically for female entrepreneurs who utilize our platform. These incentives will include discounted rates to showcase their projects and services effectively. This initiative will not only support women-owned businesses but also demonstrate our commitment to fostering economic empowerment and promoting gender equality within the AEC industry.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

3

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

My project contributes to the Clean Water and Sanitation goal by implementing sustainable practices in the AEC sector. We prioritize eco-friendly materials and efficient water management in our projects, reducing water consumption and promoting environmental stewardship. Additionally, we support the construction of sanitation facilities and water infrastructure, improving access to clean water and sanitation services in communities. By integrating these practices and infrastructure developments, we aim to enhance public health, ensure sustainable water use, and contribute to achieving global goals for clean water and sanitation.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

3

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Our startup does not directly work on affordable and clean energy solutions. However, we recognize the importance of this goal and support it through our internal practices and partnerships. We prioritize using renewable energy sources for our operations, ensuring our facilities are powered by clean energy whenever possible.

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

Zohan's initiative strongly supports decent work and economic growth through multiple facets. Firstly, it addresses unemployment by connecting skilled workers with architectural, engineering, and construction projects, fostering full and productive employment, particularly among young graduates in Ethiopia. Secondly, the platform enhances industry efficiency and productivity by streamlining the hiring process for clients and optimizing skill utilization for workers. Thirdly, leveraging digital advancements and the growing construction sector, Zohan expands service offerings, contributing to sustained economic growth. Its inclusive approach ensures diverse talent access, promoting economic development and innovation within Ethiopia's AEC industry. By prioritizing sustainability and fostering collaboration, Zohan not only meets market demands effectively but also drives forward-looking practices essential for long-term industry viability and economic resilience.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Zohan contributes significantly to industry innovation and infrastructure by leveraging advanced technologies and sustainable practices in this specific sector. We enhance infrastructure resilience through our platform, improving project accuracy and durability. Our platform fosters inclusive industrialization by connecting diverse professionals with job opportunities, supporting SMEs, and promoting economic diversity. Zohan drives innovation by advocating for sustainable building practices and smart technologies, advancing construction methods and environmental stewardship. We prioritize sustainability by promoting energy-efficient designs and eco-friendly materials, reducing environmental impact and supporting global conservation goals. Economically, Zohan optimizes project efficiency and cost-effectiveness, attracting investment and fostering economic growth within the AEC sector. Overall, our initiatives promote resilient infrastructure, inclusive industrialization, innovation, and

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Zohan directly addresses the challenge of youth unemployment in Ethiopia by creating a platform that connects graduates, especially those from construction and engineering backgrounds, with potential employers. We enables a diverse group of individuals to participate in the economy actively. By facilitating the inclusion of various skilled workers, from architects to technicians, the project promotes equal economic opportunities for all, regardless of their background.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Zohan's platform and services have a direct and significant impact on promoting sustainable cities and communities in Ethiopia. The core of our startup's mission is the aim to revolutionize the Architectural and Construction industry, which plays a crucial role in shaping the built environment and infrastructure of urban and rural areas. By connecting clients with a diverse pool of skilled professionals, including architects, engineers, construction workers, and maintenance technicians, Zohan facilitates the delivery of high-quality, sustainable building and infrastructure solutions. Through the expertise of civil, structural, and environmental engineers available on the Zohan platform, the design and construction of infrastructure that is better equipped to withstand the impacts of climate change, natural disasters, and other environmental challenges. This enhances the overall resilience of cities and communities.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

One of the key ways Zohan contributes to responsible consumption and production is by facilitating access to skilled professionals who can optimize construction processes and materials usage. Our platform shows the profiles of engineers and specialists who are knowledgeable in sustainable building practices, such as the selection of eco-friendly materials, efficient energy systems, and waste management strategies and connects them with clients. We ensure that the available expertise and labor are utilized effectively, reducing the risk of underemployment or misallocation of human capital.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

While our startup does not directly engage in climate action initiatives, we acknowledge their significance and integrate supportive practices and policies within our operations. This includes efforts to minimize waste, enhance energy efficiency, and favor sustainable materials, all aimed at reducing our environmental impact.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

2

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

2

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

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

7 - Strongly Agree

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Zohan's comprehensive platform and services promote transparency and accountability through out all levels, we ensure that all stakeholders, including workers, clients, and businesses, have equitable access to justice. This can help to address power imbalances and prevent the exploitation of vulnerable groups, contributing to a more just and equitable system. By providing divers trainings to our workers, we help reduce the opportunities for bribery, nepotism, and other forms of misconduct.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Zohan fosters a collaborative ecosystem that brings together a diverse range of stakeholders, from clients to skilled professionals. The platform's diverse stakeholder engagement, catering to individuals and businesses from various backgrounds, fosters a sense of shared ownership and community. This cultivates an environment where diverse perspectives can converge, leading to the co-creation of innovative solutions that drive sustainable progress. By establishing collaborative ecosystems, facilitating knowledge sharing, promoting technological advancement, and embracing inclusive development, the Zohan project emerges as a strong contender in contributing to this particular goal.

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

2

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

2

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

3

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

2

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

2

05.08 Justification

The Zohan project's envisioned product and service offering has been designed to address a significant gap in the Architectural, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry that has not been adequately satisfied by any existing solution. The AEC industry is often characterized by fragmentation, with various stakeholders, including clients, architects, engineers, and construction professionals, leading to inefficiencies, communication breakdowns, and suboptimal project outcomes. Zohan's platform is designed to be at the forefront of technological innovation, integrating modern digital tools and solutions to drive the modernization and transformation of the AEC industry, which has historically been slow in embracing digital technologies.

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

Zohan's platform does not have any direct competitors that are specifically dedicated to serving the Architectural, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. While there are general job portals and employment platforms in the country, such as Ethio Jobs, these do not cater to the unique needs and requirements of the AEC sector. The absence of a dedicated AEC-focused platform in the Ethiopian market, despite addressing the serious issue of increasing unemployment rates in our country, presents a significant opportunity for Zohan to establish itself as the pioneering and leading solution in this space. By offering a comprehensive platform that connects clients with skilled professionals, provides advanced project management tools, and leverages cutting-edge technologies, Zohan can fill a critical gap in the industry. One of Zohan's key competitive advantages in the Ethiopian market will be its teams deep understanding of the local AEC industry and its specific challenges.

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

I am actively involved in initiatives within my community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs. Specifically, I am working on Mastercard Foundation projects called SEED and Mesirat. These projects are dedicated to job creation and are designed to support the formation and growth of startup enterprises. These programs ensure that 80% of the businesses are owned by women, empowering them to take leadership roles in their entrepreneurial ventures and fostering a more inclusive economic environment. Through these efforts, we aim to provide the necessary resources, mentorship, and funding to help female entrepreneurs thrive and succeed.