Ethiopia - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Bisklet is a groundbreaking dock les bicycle sharing platform designed to address urban mobility challenges in Addis Ababa. By offering convenient, affordable, and sustainable transportation options.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

In the bustling city of Addis Ababa, where transportation options are diverse yet often congested, "Bisklet" emerges as a solution designed to revolutionize urban mobility. Bisklet is a dockless bicycle sharing app that aims to provide convenient, affordable, and eco-friendly transportation for residents and visitors alike. By leveraging the latest in mobile technology and a network of GPS-enabled bicycles, Bisklet enables users to locate and unlock bicycles through a user-friendly mobile application. This innovative approach eliminates the need for traditional docking stations, allowing riders the flexibility to pick up and drop off bicycles at their convenience, enhancing accessibility across the city. Bisklet promotes sustainable urban transportation by reducing reliance on motor vehicles, easing traffic congestion, and contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment. Our mission is to transform the way people move around Addis Ababa.

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

Addis Ababa faces severe traffic congestion, limited public transportation options, and inadequate last-mile connectivity, contributing to air pollution and inefficiency in urban transport. Solution: Introducing Bisklet - A Dockless Bicycle Sharing App Bisklet offers a convenient, affordable, and eco-friendly transportation solution. Users can locate and unlock bicycles via a mobile app, promoting sustainable mobility, reducing traffic, and improving access to diverse destinations across the city. By integrating Bisklet into Addis Ababa's transport ecosystem, we aim to enhance urban mobility, reduce environmental impact, and promote healthier lifestyles for residents and visitors alike.

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

Convenience: Users can easily locate and unlock bicycles using a mobile app, making it convenient for short trips or daily commutes without the hassle of searching for docking stations. Affordability: Bisklet provides a cost-effective transportation option compared to traditional taxis or owning a private vehicle, making it accessible to a wider range of users. Flexibility: With dockless bicycles, users have the freedom to pick up and drop off bikes at designated locations throughout the city, enhancing flexibility in travel routes and timing. Sustainability: By promoting cycling as a mode of transport, Bisklet reduces carbon emissions and contributes to a cleaner urban environment, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change. Health Benefits: Cycling with Bisklet promotes physical activity and supports active lifestyles, improving overall health and well-being for users. Enhanced Connectivity, community impact These benefits make Bisklet a compelling choice for urban communi

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

Bisklet aims to serve a wide range of beneficiaries, including Residents of Addis Ababa, Visitors and Tourists, business professionals, Students, and Health enthusiasts. In addition to providing urban mobility solutions, Bisklet aims to create social impact by employing homeless youths as bicycle collectors and delivery personnel. This initiative not only provides them with employment opportunities but also integrates them into the community, fostering a sense of empowerment and stability. Bisklet aims to serve a wide range of beneficiaries, including Residents of Addis Ababa, Bisklet's commitment to social responsibility extends beyond transportation, contributing to the well-being and livelihoods of marginalized youth in Addis Ababa.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2022-02-03

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

3

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.)

Yonathan Endale (Tech Enthusiast and Freelance Programmer): Yonathan's enthusiasm for technology and experience as a freelance programmer will be invaluable in shaping the technical aspects of the Bisklet app. His skills can ensure that the app is user-friendly, robust, and meets the needs of both cyclists and administrators. Selamawit Amenete (Computer Engineer): Selamawit's background as a computer engineer brings expertise in software development, system architecture, and technical implementation. Her role will be crucial in designing the backend infrastructure of the Bisklet app, ensuring scalability, security, and reliability. Abenezer Takele (CEO and Founder, Software Engineer): As the CEO and founder with a background in software engineering, Abenezer will provide strategic direction and leadership for the project. His experience in managing software development projects and understanding of market dynamics will guide Bisklet’s growth and sustainability in Addis Ababa.

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

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

The Bisklet project contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of No Poverty in several impactful ways: Employment Opportunities: By employing homeless youths as bicycle collectors and delivery personnel, Bisklet provides meaningful employment opportunities. This helps lift individuals out of poverty by offering them a steady income and a chance to support themselves financially. Income Generation: Through their roles in bike collection and delivery services, homeless youths earn wages that enable them to meet their basic needs and improve their quality of life. This economic empowerment reduces their vulnerability to poverty and homelessness. Skills Development, social inclusion, Community support, Promotion o Sustainable development In summary, Bisklet's commitment to employing homeless youths and providing them with skills and opportunities aligns closely with the UN's No Poverty goal. By addressing the root causes of poverty and empowering individuals.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Bisklet plays a significant role in advancing the Zero Hunger goal by offering employment opportunities to homeless youths as bicycle collectors and delivery personnel. Through stable income and skills development, it improves food security, promotes community resilience, and fosters sustainable practices in Addis Ababa.

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

Bisklet contributes to promoting good health and well-being in Addis Ababa through several avenues: it encourages physical activity by promoting cycling, thereby enhancing cardiovascular fitness and reducing sedentary lifestyles. Additionally, Bisklet improves air quality by reducing reliance on motor vehicles, which helps mitigate respiratory issues. By providing affordable transportation options and meaningful employment to marginalized youths, Bisklet supports economic stability and fosters positive mental well-being, contributing to a healthier and more inclusive community overall.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Bisklet contributes to the Quality Education goal by providing educational opportunities and skills development to marginalized youths employed as bicycle collectors and delivery personnel. Through on-the-job training in logistics, customer service, and maintenance, Bisklet equips these individuals with valuable skills that enhance their employability and future prospects. By promoting access to sustainable and affordable transportation options, Bisklet also facilitates improved access to educational institutions and resources, ensuring broader educational opportunities for residents of Addis Ababa. This initiative supports lifelong learning and empowers individuals to pursue academic and professional goals, thereby advancing the Quality Education goal in the community.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Bisklet contributes to the Gender Equality goal by promoting equal employment opportunities for both men and women, including marginalized youths employed as bicycle collectors and delivery personnel. By ensuring a fair and inclusive hiring process, Bisklet fosters gender diversity and empowers women in traditionally male-dominated roles. This initiative not only provides economic independence and skills development but also challenges stereotypes and promotes gender equality in the workforce. By supporting sustainable transportation options accessible to all genders, Bisklet enables greater mobility and participation in social and economic activities, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society in Addis Ababa.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Bisklet contributes to the Clean Water and Sanitation goal in Addis Ababa by promoting cycling as a sustainable transportation alternative, thereby reducing air pollution from motorized vehicles. By lowering emissions of pollutants like particulate matter and nitrogen oxides, Bisklet helps mitigate the environmental impact on water sources, as these pollutants can settle and contaminate freshwater through atmospheric deposition. This initiative supports environmental sustainability by reducing the city's carbon footprint and preserving the cleanliness of water resources. Improved air quality resulting from fewer emissions not only protects water quality but also enhances public health by reducing the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases associated with poor air quality. Bisklet's commitment to promoting cleaner air and sustainable transport aligns with broader efforts to achieve clean water and sanitation goals.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Bisklet contributes to the Affordable and Clean Energy goal by promoting sustainable transportation through its bicycle sharing platform. By encouraging cycling as an alternative to motorized transport, Bisklet reduces dependency on fossil fuels, thereby lowering carbon emissions and contributing to cleaner air quality in Addis Ababa. This shift towards sustainable mobility options not only helps in mitigating climate change but also supports energy efficiency and conservation efforts. Additionally, Bisklet offers affordable transportation solutions that reduce commuting costs for users, making clean energy accessible to a wider population segment. By integrating renewable energy principles into urban mobility, Bisklet supports the transition towards a more sustainable and affordable energy future for the city.

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

Bisklet contributes to the Decent Work and Economic Growth goal by providing meaningful employment opportunities, particularly for marginalized youths employed as bicycle collectors and delivery personnel. By offering fair wages and skills development through on-the-job training in logistics and customer service, Bisklet enhances the employability and economic independence of its workforce. This initiative not only promotes social inclusion but also supports sustainable economic growth by diversifying employment opportunities in the urban transportation sector. By fostering a supportive work environment and promoting equal employment opportunities, Bisklet contributes to building resilient and inclusive economic systems that benefit the broader community in Addis Ababa.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Bisklet contributes to the Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure goal by introducing innovative solutions in urban transportation infrastructure through its dockless bicycle sharing platform. By leveraging mobile technology and GPS-enabled bicycles, Bisklet enhances the efficiency and accessibility of urban mobility in Addis Ababa. This innovation not only improves transportation options for residents and visitors but also promotes sustainable urban development by reducing traffic congestion and air pollution. Bisklet's initiative fosters infrastructure development by establishing a network of bicycle stations and supporting facilities, thus enhancing the city's overall connectivity and accessibility. Moreover, by integrating marginalized youths into the workforce as bicycle collectors and delivery personnel, Bisklet promotes inclusive economic growth and supports local innovation in the transportation sector.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Bisklet contributes to the Reduced Inequalities goal by providing employment opportunities to marginalized youths, including homeless individuals, as bicycle collectors and delivery personnel. This initiative promotes social inclusion by offering fair wages, skills development, and a supportive work environment, thereby reducing economic disparities within the community. By ensuring equal access to employment and economic opportunities, regardless of background or socio-economic status, Bisklet fosters a more equitable society in Addis Ababa. Additionally, by promoting affordable and accessible transportation options through its bicycle sharing platform, Bisklet enhances mobility for all residents, further reducing inequalities in access to transportation services. Overall, Bisklet's commitment to reducing inequalities contributes to building a more inclusive and cohesive urban environment where all individuals can participate and thrive.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Bisklet contributes significantly to the Sustainable Cities and Communities goal by promoting sustainable urban mobility in Addis Ababa. Through its dockless bicycle sharing platform, Bisklet provides residents and visitors with a convenient, affordable, and eco-friendly transportation option. By encouraging cycling as a mode of transport, Bisklet helps reduce traffic congestion and air pollution, thereby improving the overall quality of urban life. This initiative supports sustainable development by reducing the city's carbon footprint and promoting healthier lifestyles through physical activity. Overall, Bisklet's efforts towards sustainable urban mobility align with creating livable, resilient, and sustainable cities for present and future generations in Addis Ababa.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Bisklet contributes to the Responsible Consumption and Production goal by promoting sustainable transportation practices through its dockless bicycle sharing platform. By encouraging cycling as a low-carbon mode of transport, Bisklet helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigates greenhouse gas emissions in Addis Ababa. This initiative supports responsible consumption by offering an alternative to motorized vehicles, which typically consume more resources and contribute to environmental degradation. Bisklet also promotes efficient use of resources by optimizing bicycle utilization and minimizing waste associated with traditional transportation systems. Overall, Bisklet's commitment to sustainable urban mobility contributes to building a more sustainable and resilient city while promoting responsible consumption and production patterns among residents and visitors alike.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Bisklet contributes to the Climate Action goal by promoting cycling as a sustainable transportation alternative in Addis Ababa. By reducing the dependency on motorized vehicles, Bisklet helps lower greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, thereby mitigating the city's contribution to climate change. This initiative supports climate resilience by improving air quality and reducing the environmental impact associated with urban transport. Additionally, Bisklet's focus on sustainable urban mobility aligns with efforts to build more climate-resilient cities and communities, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable future for all residents. By integrating marginalized youths into the workforce and promoting eco-friendly transportation options, Bisklet plays a vital role in advancing climate action and fostering sustainable development in Addis Ababa and beyond.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

While Bisklet primarily focuses on urban mobility and socioeconomic empowerment, its indirect contributions to the Life Below Water goal are noteworthy. By promoting cycling as a sustainable transportation option, Bisklet helps reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, which can have positive impacts on aquatic ecosystems. Improved air quality can lessen acid rain and atmospheric deposition of pollutants into water bodies, thereby supporting water quality and marine biodiversity. Additionally, by reducing traffic congestion and promoting eco-friendly practices, Bisklet contributes to the overall sustainability of urban environments, which indirectly benefits adjacent aquatic ecosystems and marine habitats. Thus, while Bisklet's main focus is on urban mobility and social equity, its efforts align with broader sustainability goals that include the health of marine and aquatic environments.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Bisklet contributes to the Life on Land goal by promoting sustainable urban mobility practices that reduce environmental impact on terrestrial ecosystems in Addis Ababa. By encouraging cycling as a primary mode of transportation, Bisklet helps decrease air pollution and carbon emissions, which can have positive effects on local biodiversity and habitats. Reduced reliance on motor vehicles also mitigates habitat fragmentation and disturbance caused by road infrastructure, thus supporting the conservation of terrestrial ecosystems and wildlife habitats. Additionally, Bisklet's emphasis on eco-friendly transportation options fosters a more sustainable urban environment that prioritizes the preservation of green spaces and natural landscapes. By integrating marginalized youths into the workforce and promoting sustainable practices, Bisklet contributes to creating healthier and more resilient terrestrial ecosystems for current and future generations in Addis Ababa.

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

6

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Bisklet, the bicycle sharing app tailored for Addis Ababa, contributes meaningfully to Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. By promoting sustainable transportation and reducing traffic congestion, Bisklet helps create safer and more accessible urban spaces, fostering social cohesion and community engagement. The transparent and inclusive approach to governance and operations ensures accountability and strengthens institutional frameworks, promoting trust between stakeholders and enhancing overall governance effectiveness. By providing affordable and eco-friendly mobility options, Bisklet supports equitable access to resources and opportunities, contributing to a more just and inclusive society in Addis Ababa.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Bisklet, the bicycle sharing app developed for Addis Ababa, makes a significant contribution to Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals. By collaborating with local businesses, community organizations, and government agencies, Bisklet establishes partnerships that enhance the app's accessibility and effectiveness. These partnerships promote shared goals of sustainable urban mobility, economic growth, and environmental stewardship. Bisklet's inclusive approach fosters dialogue and cooperation among diverse stakeholders, facilitating knowledge exchange and capacity building. Through these partnerships, Bisklet not only expands its reach but also strengthens the city's resilience and capacity to achieve sustainable development objectives collectively.

05.01 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

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

6

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.

6

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

Bisklet stands out as a unique and innovative project in Addis Ababa's urban landscape for several reasons. Firstly, it introduces the city's first comprehensive bicycle sharing platform, addressing the need for sustainable, affordable, and flexible transportation solutions amidst growing urbanization. Unlike traditional modes, Bisklet leverages modern smartphone technology to offer seamless user experiences, from quick bike reservations to real-time navigation and payment options. Moreover, Bisklet promotes local economic development by sourcing materials locally, supporting regional businesses, and creating job opportunities directly related to app development, maintenance, and bike operations. By respecting local customs and values and maintaining transparent communication with the community, Bisklet aims to build trust and ensure its integration into Addis Ababa's cultural fabric.

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

Given Bisklet's pioneering role in introducing bicycle sharing to Addis Ababa, potential competitors could emerge from various fronts. These might include emerging local startups inspired by the city's growing interest in sustainable transportation solutions, as well as established international companies eyeing expansion into the region. Government initiatives or partnerships promoting similar schemes could also arise, alongside competition from existing or evolving modes of shared urban transportation like e-scooters or traditional taxi services. Bisklet's strategy will need to focus on innovation, maintaining affordability, and fostering community engagement to solidify its position against future entrants and alternative transportation options in the local market.

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

N/A