Nigeria - Startup under 3 years old

Décrivez votre projet en quelques mots

GreyLend is a Nigerian CleanTech company making solar power accessible and affordable across Africa. We tackle the lack of clean electricity with a platform offering financing, reputable installers, and energy-saving appliances in one place, simplifyed

01.01 Décrivez votre startup en détail

GreyLend is a pre-seed stage platform illuminating Africa's future with clean energy. We empower cost-conscious homeowners and businesses in peri-urban Nigeria, a region yearning for reliable power but facing high upfront costs for solar solutions. Our mobile app cuts through these barriers: - Competitive Financing & Reputable Installers: We connect users with a network of trusted solar installers and negotiate competitive financing options from local banks, MFBs, and NBFIs. - Financial Empowerment, Simplified: Our user-friendly app streamlines the financing process and educates users on the benefits of solar power, making clean energy accessible and understandable. GreyLend fosters a win-win-win ecosystem: - Customers: Access affordable clean energy with competitive financing. - Merchants: Increase sales with access to financing for their customers and a wider customer base through our app. - Financiers: Reach a pre-vetted pool of potential borrowers for sustainable loans.

01.02 Quel est le problème principal que vous essayez de résoudre ?

In Africa, peri-urban homeowners and businesses (SMEs) struggle to access clean electricity. High upfront costs for solar power and limited access to financing create a significant barrier. Homes are left without reliable power, hindering development and quality of life. GreyLend steps in to solve this critical necessity challenge.

01.03 Dites-nous quels sont les principaux avantages et/ou bénéfices de l'utilisation du produit/service fourni par votre startup (au moins 3).

GreyLend tackles this head-on with a three-pronged approach via our mobile app: - Competitive Financing & Bidding Process: We connect users with a network of reputable solar installers. Uniquely, our app facilitates a bidding process. Merchants compete to offer the most attractive installation package, ensuring homeowners receive the best possible deal on equipment and financing. - Simplified Financing & Education: Our user-friendly app goes beyond bidding. It simplifies the financing application process and educates users on the benefits of solar power, empowering them to make informed decisions about their clean energy future. - Win-Win-Win Ecosystem: GreyLend fosters collaboration: homeowners gain access to affordable clean energy, merchants see increased sales through competitive bidding and a wider customer base, and financiers reach a pre-vetted pool of borrowers for sustainable loans.

01.04 Veuillez décrire précisément à qui s'adresse le produit/service de votre startup. Quels sont les bénéficiaires visés ?

GreyLend's mobile platform tackles the challenge of limited access to clean energy in Africa by creating a win-win-win ecosystem for three key target groups: 1. Cost-Conscious Homeowners and businesses (Peri-Urban Nigeria): - Our app connects them with reputable solar installers and negotiates competitive financing options, making solar power affordable. - We simplify the financing process and educate users on the benefits of solar, empowering informed decisions. 2. Solar Installers & Businesses: - GreyLend expands their reach by connecting them with a verified pool of potential customers seeking solar solutions. - Our bidding process fosters competition, ensuring homeowners receive the best deals on equipment and financing. 3. Local Financiers (Banks, MFBs, NBFIs): - We offer access to a pre-vetted customer base for sustainable loans, reducing risk and expanding their reach. - GreyLend simplifies the application process, streamlining loan origination for financiers.

01.05 Quand votre entreprise a-t-elle été créée ?

13/05/2022

01.06 Vendez-vous déjà votre produit/service ?

Oui

01.07 Combien y a-t-il de propriétaires de votre entreprise en plus de vous ?

2

01.08 Parmi les autres propriétaires, combien sont des femmes ?

1

01.09 Veuillez décrire le profil des autres propriétaires de votre startup (compétences, expérience, etc.).

GreyLend boasts a leadership team with over 50 years of combined experience, creating a powerful force for clean energy access in Africa. Here's a breakdown of the expertise we bring to the table: - Deep understanding of the clean energy sector in Africa - Extensive experience in asset financing and banking - Strong leadership and vision: ability to lead, inspire, and chart a clear path for GreyLend The founder / CEO: Seasoned finance professional with +10 years of experience driving financial excellence and growth with ~$50m raised in debt and equity. Proven expertise in fund-raising (private equity), corporate finance, financial planning & analysis business analysis, strategic decision-making, and leading high-performing teams with BBA Finance from Howard University. Skilled in financial modeling, strategy development and implementation, risk management, operational efficiency, and building strong relationships with stakeholders.

01.10 Si vous avez un site web, une page sur les médias sociaux (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin...) ou une application, veuillez fournir le(s) lien(s) ici :

https://www.greylend.com/ ; https://www.instagram.com/greylend_ng?igsh=anIybWo5NzZ1bHlt

01.11 Quel est le secteur d'activité qui décrit le mieux votre entreprise ?

Énergie (équipements, services, énergie durable et fossiles)

02.01.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Pas de pauvreté'

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.01.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Affordable Clean Energy: we connect cost-conscious homeowners in peri-urban Nigeria with affordable solar power solutions through our mobile app. This combats poverty by: - Freeing Up Household Income: Previously spent on expensive and unreliable energy sources, these savings can be redirected towards basic necessities like food, education, and healthcare. - Enabling Income Generation: Reliable electricity empowers families to operate income-generating activities in the evenings, fostering financial independence and poverty reduction. Creating Jobs & Stimulating the Economy: GreyLend's platform stimulates the clean energy sector, creating new employment opportunities in: Solar panel installation, Maintenance Customer service Beyond financial empowerment, fosters a ripple effect of positive change: - Improved Health: Clean electricity eliminates harmful fumes from indoor kerosene lighting, leading to better health outcomes for families. - Education : Reliable lighting for reading

02.02.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Faim Zéro'

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.02.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

- Increased Income: By enabling families to save money on energy costs and potentially start income-generating businesses with reliable electricity, GreyLend can improve household income security. This translates to better access to nutritious food for families. - Improved Food Preservation: Reliable electricity allows families to invest in small refrigerators or other food storage solutions, reducing food spoilage and waste. - Stimulating Local Economies: Job creation within the clean energy sector thanks to GreyLend's platform can lead to increased economic activity in communities. This overall economic growth can benefit local farmers and food producers, potentially strengthening local food systems.

02.03.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Bonne Santé et Bien Être'

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.03.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

- Clean Energy, Healthy Homes: GreyLend connects homeowners with affordable solar power, eliminating harmful fumes from kerosene lighting and fostering better respiratory health. - Economic Empowerment, Improved Healthcare: Savings from solar free up income for families, potentially allowing for increased access to healthcare services.

02.04.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Éducation de Qualité'

6

02.04.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

- Bright Futures, Lit Homes: GreyLend empowers peri-urban Nigerians with affordable solar power through our mobile app. Reliable electricity allows children to extend study hours, enhancing educational opportunities. - Economic Upliftment, Educational Investment: Savings from reduced energy costs can be directed towards educational resources, further propelling progress.

02.05.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Égalité entre les Sexes'

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.05.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

- Financial Inclusion for Women: GreyLend's mobile app simplifies financing processes, potentially increasing access to solar power for female-led households. - Economic Opportunities for Women: Reliable electricity empowers women to operate income-generating businesses from home, fostering economic independence. - Women in Clean Energy: GreyLend can collaborate with training programs to encourage women's participation in the growing solar installation sector.

02.06.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Eau Propre et Assainissement'

6

02.06.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

While GreyLend's core mission doesn't directly address SDG #6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), there can be some indirect positive externalities: - Improved Healthcare: Better health outcomes from clean electricity use (reduced respiratory issues from kerosene fumes) can lead to increased focus on hygiene and sanitation practices within households (SDG #3 with a positive spillover effect on #6). - Community Development: Economic growth stimulated by GreyLend's job creation in the clean energy sector could lead to increased investment in infrastructure projects, potentially including improved water access and sanitation facilities in peri-urban communities (overall economic development leading to improved infrastructure - positive externality on SDG #6).

02.07.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Énergie Propre et Abordable'

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.07.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Solar Power for All: GreyLend's mobile app connects peri-urban Nigerians with affordable financing for solar power installations, directly addressing SDG #7 (Affordable and Clean Energy). Financing Innovation: We simplify the financing process and negotiate competitive rates, making clean energy a realistic option for cost-conscious homeowners. Win-Win-Win Ecosystem: Our platform fosters collaboration: homeowners gain access to clean energy, installers increase sales, and financiers reach new customers (SDG #7 with a broader economic impact).

02.08.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Travail Décent et Croissance Économique'

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.08.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

- Financing Clean Energy Jobs: GreyLend's platform creates new employment opportunities in solar installation, maintenance, and customer service within the clean energy sector. - Stimulating Local Economies: Increased economic activity from these new jobs fosters growth in peri-urban communities with a positive economic ripple effect). - Empowering Entrepreneurs: Affordable solar power enables cost-conscious homeowners to start or expand income-generating businesses, further propelling economic developments.

02.09.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Industrie, Innovation et Infrastructure'

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.09.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Innovation: Mobile App Platform: simplifies financing applications, streamlines installer selection, and educates users on the benefits of solar power. This innovative approach removes traditional barriers and empowers cost-conscious homeowners. Competitive Financing Engine: We leverage partnerships with local banks, MFBs, and NBFIs to negotiate competitive financing options for solar installations. This financial innovation makes clean energy a more accessible reality for peri-urban Nigerians. Bidding Process Integration: facilitates a bidding process among reputable solar installers. This unique feature fosters competition, ensuring homeowners receive the best possible deals on equipment and financing. Infrastructure Building: Expanding Financial Inclusion: fosters partnerships with local financial institutions, expanding their reach into previously underserved communities and accelerating clean energy adoption. Strengthening Clean Energy Ecosystem: connecting with solar installers

02.10.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Réduction des Inégalités'

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.10.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Leveling the Energy Playing Field: GreyLend's mobile app connects peri-urban Nigerians with affordable solar power financing, tackling energy access inequality . Financial Inclusion for All: Our user-friendly platform simplifies financing processes, potentially empowering low-income households to join the clean energy revolution. Economic Mobility: By enabling cost-conscious homeowners to save money and potentially start income-generating businesses with reliable electricity, GreyLend fosters economic opportunities and reduces income inequality.

02.11.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Villes et Communautés Durables'

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.11.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Clean Energy for Peri-Urban Growth: GreyLend connects homeowners in peri-urban Nigeria with affordable solar power, reducing reliance on polluting fuels and fostering cleaner communities. Economic Opportunity & Job Creation: Our platform stimulates the clean energy sector, creating new jobs in solar installation, maintenance, and customer service, contributing to a more sustainable and vibrant local economy. Empowering Citizens, Building Resilience: Access to reliable electricity empowers families and communities to improve their quality of life and prepare for future challenges.

02.12.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Consommation et Production Responsables'

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.12.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Sustainable Energy Solutions: GreyLend empowers peri-urban Nigerians with access to affordable solar power, promoting a shift away from unsustainable and polluting energy sources. Financing Innovation for Wider Impact: Our mobile app simplifies financing processes, encouraging responsible consumption of clean energy through user education and increased adoption. Building a Circular Economy: We prioritize partnerships with reputable solar installers who utilize high-quality, long-lasting equipment, minimizing waste and promoting responsible production practices within the clean energy sector.

02.13.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Lutte contre les Changements Climatiques'

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.13.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Solar Power for All: GreyLend's mobile app connects peri-urban Nigerians with affordable solar financing, facilitating a widespread shift towards clean energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Financing Innovation for Climate Impact: Our user-friendly platform streamlines financing and educates users, accelerating clean energy adoption and mitigating climate change. Sustainable Communities, Reduced Emissions: Widespread solar power adoption through GreyLend reduces greenhouse gas emissions, fostering cleaner air and a more sustainable future for Africa. Investing in GreyLend combats climate change and empowers African communities to embrace a clean energy future

02.14.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Vie Sous-Marine'

3

02.14.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

While GreyLend's core mission doesn't directly address SDG #14 (Life Below Water), there can be some positive externalities: Reduced Reliance on Fossil Fuels: Widespread adoption of solar power through GreyLend can lead to a decrease in reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation. This can indirectly benefit life below water by reducing pollution from oil spills, emissions, and thermal runoff from power plants (positive impact on SDG #14). Community Development & Environmental Awareness: The economic growth stimulated by GreyLend (SDG #8) could lead to increased investment in environmental protection initiatives. This could include projects aimed at reducing pollution or promoting sustainable fishing practices, ultimately benefiting life below water (overall economic development leading to improved environmental stewardship - positive externality on SDG #14)

02.15.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Vie Terrestre'

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.15.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

- Clean Energy, Reduced Deforestation: GreyLend connects peri-urban Nigerians with affordable solar power, decreasing reliance on firewood for cooking and lighting, thereby protecting forests and preserving biodiversity (SDG #15: Life on Land). - Scaling Up, Minimizing Footprint: Our mobile app streamlines the financing process, encouraging widespread clean energy adoption without requiring extensive new infrastructure that could disrupt ecosystems (SDG #15). - Building a Sustainable Future: Financial empowerment from GreyLend can foster a sense of environmental responsibility within communities, potentially leading to increased participation in conservation efforts.

02.16.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Paix, Justice et Institutions Efficaces'

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.16.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Empowering Communities, Reducing Conflict: GreyLend's affordable solar solutions provide reliable electricity in peri-urban Nigeria, potentially reducing conflict over scarce resources like firewood (SDG #16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions). Economic Opportunity & Social Stability: Job creation within the clean energy sector fosters economic growth and reduces social tensions that can contribute to conflict (SDG #16). Transparency & Access to Information: Our user-friendly mobile app promotes financial literacy and transparency in loan applications, strengthening trust within communities (SDG #16).

02.17.01 Ma startup contribue à l'objectif 'Parteneriats pour la Réalisation des Objectifs'

7 - tout à fait d'accord

02.17.02 Justification de la contribution de ma startup

Collaboration for Clean Energy Access: GreyLend fosters partnerships across sectors to achieve SDG #17: Partnerships for the Goals. We connect with local financial institutions, solar installers, and homeowners, creating a win-win-win ecosystem for clean energy adoption. Building a Sustainable Future Together: Our mobile app is a platform for collaboration, empowering diverse stakeholders to work towards a shared goal of affordable and clean energy for all (SDG #17). Scaling Impact Through Partnerships: By forging strong partnerships, GreyLend can replicate its success model across Africa, maximizing its positive impact (SDG #17 with a multiplier effect). Investing in GreyLend strengthens partnerships and accelerates progress towards a brighter, more sustainable future for Africa.

06.01 Un grand nombre de clients utilisent déjà un produit/service très similaire au nôtre.

2

06.02 Notre produit/service représente un type de produit/service entièrement nouveau

4

06.03 Notre produit/service pourrait être décrit comme une nouvelle technologie

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

06.04 Notre produit/service est une amélioration d'un produit ou d'un service existant

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

06.05 Notre produit/service pourrait être décrit comme une extension d'une gamme de produits ou de services

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

06.06 Notre produit/service répond à une demande ou à un besoin qui n'a pas été satisfait par d'autres produits/services.

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

06.07 Notre produit/service est une nouvelle version d'un ancien produit/service

7 - Tout à fait d'accord

06.08 Justification

GreyLend tackles clean energy access differently: - Mobile App for the Underserved: We empower peri-urban Nigerians with a user-friendly app in their local language, bypassing traditional financial barriers. - Streamlined Financing: Our app simplifies loan applications, negotiates competitive rates, and connects homeowners with reputable installers. - Win-Win-Win Ecosystem: GreyLend fosters collaboration between homeowners, installers, and financiers, ensuring everyone benefits from clean energy adoption. Beyond Innovation: - Direct Beneficiary Contact: Local representatives build trust, address challenges, and ensure long-term success for communities. - Positive Ripple Effect: GreyLend combats poverty (SDG #1) while promoting economic growth, health, education, and climate action (SDGs #3, #4, #8, #13). Investing in GreyLend fuels a sustainable future, one empowered community at a time

06.09 Analyse compétitive

GreyLend faces competition, but our approach is unique: - Hyperlocal Mobile App: We target peri-urban communities with a user-friendly app in local languages, overcoming traditional financial barriers. - Streamlined Financing & Partnerships: Our app simplifies loan applications, negotiates lower rates, and connects homeowners with vetted installers. - Direct Beneficiary Contact: Local representatives build trust, address challenges, and ensure long-term success for communities. This comprehensive strategy empowers individuals and fosters a win-win for all. GreyLend goes beyond just financing. We're building a sustainable future, one community at a time

11.05 Menez-vous des actions au sein de votre communauté pour promouvoir le rôle des femmes entrepreneurs ?

I have empowered former female colleagues to become an entrepreneur and one succeeded in deploying two startups