Kambria successfully organized the SIIA New Member Initiation Event on November 8th, 2024.
Through this Event, we would like to leverage technology for societal benefits with our beloved Impact Innovators and Impact Supporters in Healthcare, Green Initiatives, and Ecosystem Building. We are truly thankful for all Member Projects accompanying us on this amazing journey!
Table of Contents
- Highlights of this Event:
- 1️⃣ Opening
- 2️⃣ Introduction
- 3️⃣ Two Roundtable Sessions and Intermission
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3.1. Round 1
-
Impact Innovators’ sharing:
- A. Mr. Abhishek (AbhiaShek) Kumar - Founder and CEO of Health Innov8 | Theme: Healthcare & Goal: Business/Investment Opportunity
- B. Ms. Quynh Le - Co-Founder and COO of Green Beli Blockchain Ecosystem | Theme: Green Initiatives & Goal: Business/Investment Opportunity
- C. Ms. Fernanda Paixão Moreira - Founder of Talk Away | Theme: Ecosystem Building & Goal: Business/Investment Opportunity
- Sharing between Impact Innovators and Impact Supporters:
-
Impact Innovators’ sharing:
- 3.2. Intermission
- 3.3. Round 2
-
3.1. Round 1
- 4️⃣ Thanks and Closing Up
Highlights of this Event:
The Event includes 4 key sections:
- Opening: Kambria welcomes attendees and briefly shares the Event Agenda.
- Introduction: Kambria introduces the Alliance, welcomes and celebrates New Member Projects.
- Two Roundtable Sessions and Intermission: Participants will engage in two rounds of breakout discussions on Ecosystem Building, Green Initiatives, and Healthcare, with an intermission for reflection and networking, and an option to switch themes for the second round.
- Thanks and Closing Up: Participants are thanked for their engagement, encouraged to share Event posts for broader impact, reminded to check collaborative documents and email updates, and informed about upcoming minigame rewards.
Full video: https://youtu.be/IEQUBcRBnaM
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1️⃣ Opening
The Social Impact Innovation Alliance's New Member Initiation Event brought together a dynamic group of visionaries and innovators from around the world, all united by the goal of leveraging technology for societal good, setting the stage for a day filled with impactful discussions and networking.
The Event began with an introduction to Kambria, featuring key team members such as CEO Ms. Lien Cao, Ms. Trang Nguyen, Mr. Ivan Ta, Ms. Thao Tran, Ms. Thu Nguyen, and Ms. Anh Nguyen. The attendees included esteemed Impact Supporters and 10 Impact Innovators, all eager to share their groundbreaking projects.
The day's agenda was structured around thematic roundtable discussions - Ecosystem Building, Green Initiatives, and Healthcare - where participants had the opportunity to showcase their projects and explore potential collaborations. After an engaging first roundtable session, a short intermission allowed attendees to reflect and network, fostering deeper connections. The second round of discussions continued the dialogue, with a chance for participants to either delve deeper into their chosen theme or switch to another. The Event wrapped up with closing remarks, summarizing key insights and outlining the next steps for further collaboration and impact.
Video: https://youtu.be/PrmceLCvgJ0
2️⃣ Introduction
Ms. Lien Cao introduced Kambria, an open innovation platform focused on cutting-edge technologies like AI, robotics, blockchain, AR, VR, and IoT. Kambria’s mission is to shape the future of technology through open, co-owned platforms that contribute positively to society. The core initiative, Kambria DAO, allows members to co-own technology and participate in its development, commercialization, and profit-sharing. This initiative provides a collaborative space for those interested in owning and advancing technological solutions.
Ms. Lien Cao also introduced the Social Impact Innovation Alliance (SIIA), a collective of visionary projects committed to harnessing innovation for social good. The Alliance focuses on shared values such as social impact, ethical practices, scalability, sustainability, and collaboration. SIIA offers various opportunities for members, including knowledge sharing, networking, community events, and volunteer activities. The SIIA New Member Initiation Event with 10 new Member Projects from Healthcare, Green Initiatives, and Ecosystem Building were welcomed into the Alliance, with dedicated Impact Supporters set to engage in roundtable discussions to explore business opportunities and collaborations.
Video: https://youtu.be/NPCyNNfXs_A
3️⃣ Two Roundtable Sessions and Intermission
3.1. Round 1
Impact Innovators’ sharing:
A. Mr. Abhishek (AbhiaShek) Kumar - Founder and CEO of Health Innov8 | Theme: Healthcare & Goal: Business/Investment Opportunity
Mr. Abhishek Kumar from Mumbai is at the helm of Health Innov8, an omni-channel and D2C startup that aims to transform the beauty and wellness industry with its premium range of anti-aging, skincare, haircare, and well-being products. Health Innov8 caters to a substantial market in India, where out of 150 million nutraceutical consumers, 10 million lack access to high-quality, innovative products.
The startup distinguishes itself by utilizing WHO, GMP, and US-approved labs for product formulation, incorporating both foreign and traditional Indian Ayurvedic ingredients. Notable innovations include India’s first glutathione granules in sachet form and a unique product called Kovac, combining collagen, biotin, argan, and green tea.
Health Innov8 operates in a market with a global total addressable market of $17.39 billion for collagen and glutathione. The company has its own R&D unit and partnerships with entities like Annamalai University and Invento Biohealthtech, enhancing its research and manufacturing capabilities.
Having bootstrapped its way to stable revenues, Health Innov8 now seeks ₹3 crore ($35,000 USD) to invest in team building, marketing, and R&D. The company’s sales strategy spans multiple channels including supplement stores, fitness centers, and medical outlets, with plans to expand internationally. His presentation invites stakeholders to join an innovative journey poised to make significant impacts in the global beauty and wellness markets.
B. Ms. Quynh Le - Co-Founder and COO of Green Beli Blockchain Ecosystem | Theme: Green Initiatives & Goal: Business/Investment Opportunity
Ms. Quynh Le, co-founder and CEO of Green Beli, introduced the evolution and business model of their company during a presentation. Green Beli, established in 2019, initially started as a traditional environmental project but pivoted to a blockchain-based model in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift was further reinforced by successfully raising $1.1 million, which allowed them to explore integrating blockchain with agriculture, forming a unique business model.
The core of Green Beli's business involves the sale of NFTs, specifically NFT trees, which investors can purchase and then utilize within a blockchain game to generate profits. The funds raised from these NFT sales are used to develop sustainable farms and agriculture shares. A significant portion of the profits from these ventures is then converted back into the blockchain game as rewards for the investors, with a smaller portion allocated to global environmental activities.
She highlighted three primary challenges their model addresses: the limited application of real-world assets in blockchain within agriculture, financial constraints faced by farmers in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, and the high-risk, low-return perception that discourages investment in agriculture. Green Beli’s solution offers crypto investors a profitable and time-efficient investment opportunity, where they can invest small to moderate amounts (ranging from $50 to $1000) to buy an NFT and participate in the game while maintaining their full-time jobs.
Green Beli is now seeking further financing to develop their project, alongside partnerships in AgriTech and co-marketing. Ms. Quynh Le’s presentation underscores Green Beli's commitment to merging technology with sustainability, offering an innovative approach to environmental and agricultural challenges through blockchain technology.
C. Ms. Fernanda Paixão Moreira - Founder of Talk Away | Theme: Ecosystem Building & Goal: Business/Investment Opportunity
Talk Away is an innovative language platform seeking to transform into a DAO, addressing the language barriers in Latam and Brazil, where only 1% of the population speaks fluent English. The platform is particularly geared towards the influx of digital nomads by offering an immersive learning process with Portuguese lessons for foreigners within a rich cultural context. Users can engage with local Brazilian tutors through a marketplace platform, scheduling walks around cities to learn directly from the environment, enhancing both language skills and cultural understanding.
Ms. Fernanda Paixão Moreira envisions extending this model by incorporating AI assistants to support learning and expanding the offerings to include Spanish, recognizing the demand among travelers and nomads in Latam. Talk Away also collaborates with Caritas to integrate refugees into the program, allowing them to teach their native languages, which helps them integrate into new communities while contributing culturally.
The platform operates on both a B2B and B2C model, providing subscription services for online videos and training, while the marketplace offers a pay-to-use model with potential for franchise opportunities. This approach aims to make language learning accessible globally, presenting a competitive advantage in the educational tech space. The ultimate goal is to enhance community involvement among tutors, refugees, and students through a decentralized platform, fostering greater participation and cultural exchange. The founder is actively seeking partners to further develop and expand this socially impactful platform.
Video: https://youtu.be/WBZUwBUdCrI
Sharing between Impact Innovators and Impact Supporters:
A. Sharing between Ms. Quynh Le and Mr. Abhishek (AbhiaShek) Kumar
- Ms. Quynh Le: She expressed interest in learning more about Mr. Abhishek Kumar's business model, particularly about the USP of his project and strategies to capture market share in the health and skincare industry, which she noted as being quite popular.
- Mr. Kumar:
He responded by highlighting the innovative aspects of his product offerings in India. He introduced a new product to the Indian market: the glutathione effervescent tablet. Unlike the previously available IV injections and powders, his product is effervescent and carbonation-free, making it a novel offering in India. He mentioned that this concept was inspired by similar products in European countries and Japan.
Additionally, Mr. Kumar has expanded his product line to include various collagen-based products such as creams, face washes, and samples under the brand name Kovac, which incorporates ingredients like collagen, biotin, argan oil, and green tea – combinations new to the Indian market but common in developed countries. He also discussed the company's ventures into food supplements, available in both sachet and jar forms, which have been well received by foreign tourists in Mumbai. This reception has bolstered his confidence in the potential of his products to succeed not only in India but also internationally.
B. Sharing between Mr. Rocco Ciracì and Ms. Quynh Le
- Mr. Rocco Ciracì: He inquired about how Ms. Quynh Le's project, which integrates blockchain technology, differentiates itself from other market players, particularly focusing on the unique value proposition amid the prevalent blockchain solutions.
- Ms. Quynh Le:
Ms. Quynh Le responded affirmatively, acknowledging the saturation of blockchain games in the market. She explained that her business model uniquely combines blockchain gaming with agriculture, addressing the common issue of in-game token inflation that has stalled many blockchain projects. She emphasized that their project, which started as Belief in 2019 and transitioned to a blockchain game in 2021, leverages this blend of technology and agriculture as its unique selling proposition, setting it apart from conventional blockchain games.
C. Sharing between Mr. Sajal Sahu and Ms. Fernanda Paixão Moreira
- Mr. Sajal Sahu: Mr. Sahu asked about the general attendance of tutors in their tutorials. He followed up by inquiring about agreements with tutors and retention strategies, particularly given the competitive nature of the edtech industry where tutors might be tempted to join other platforms.
- Ms. Moreira:
She explained that their platform operates on a B2B model requiring tutor referrals. Tutors who perform well and receive positive evaluations are referred further, enhancing their presence on the platform. However, if a tutor fails to sell more than three classes each quarter, they risk being removed from the platform, ensuring only active, effective tutors remain.
Ms. Moreira followed up on the second question that acknowledged the challenge of tutors potentially offering classes outside the platform once they establish customer relationships. To counteract this, they've introduced gamification and a referral system to incentivize tutors to stay within their platform. She noted that if a tutor sells a class to the same customer more than three times outside the platform, it would indicate a breach of platform loyalty. This conversation highlights the strategic measures being implemented to maintain tutor engagement and manage competition in the edtech space.
Video: https://youtu.be/K7GXxLZy4ds
3.2. Intermission
Let’s explore interesting sharings from our Impact Innovators and Impact Supporters in the Intermission session.
Mr. Rocco Ciracì’s sharing:
In this session, we had the pleasure of hearing from Mr. Rocco Ciracì, a finance professional from Italy who transitioned from a corporate career in telecommunications and entertainment to become an entrepreneur. Mr. Rocco Ciracì introduced us to his startup, FlorenceCare, which he co-founded with three others, supported by a team of five. His journey is a testament to the powerful shift from corporate roles to purpose-driven entrepreneurship.
Initially, Mr. Rocco Ciracì and his team were not fully equipped to measure the social impact of their work. Winning a prestigious award in Italy, which included an investment from a qualified investor, required them to define and agree on impact KPIs - an eye-opening experience that pushed them to gain a deeper understanding of impact measurement. He emphasized the importance of not only creating positive change but also actively tracking and quantifying that impact, similar to how financial and economic metrics are handled. For those in the early stages, Mr. Ciracì advised leveraging tools like ChatGPT and other resources to better understand and showcase the impact they are already making. His message resonated: Don’t let your contributions go unnoticed; capture them meaningfully to unlock further opportunities.
Ms. Aishwarya Mishra’s sharing:
Ms. Aishwarya Mishra, from Brewing Notes, joining us from Mumbai, India, shared an inspiring journey that resonated with many attendees. With a background in investment banking and startup consulting, Ms. Aishwarya Mishra found her passion in the social impact sector, where she has spent two years helping startups drive initiatives aligned with the UN SDGs.
Reflecting on the event’s purpose, Ms. Mishra noted the rarity of meaningful discussions around social impact in business circles, as most people focus primarily on profitability rather than giving back to society. Her message highlighted the unique value of this event and the opportunity it creates for collaboration among like-minded Innovators. Ms. Aishwarya Mishra’s enthusiasm for building connections through Kambria or LinkedIn underscored her commitment to fostering a network where social impact remains a priority.
Ms. Margaret Mutheu Mutua:
Ms. Margaret Mutheu Mutua (Elevate SMEs Ltd), from Nairobi, Kenya, shared her excitement about joining the event and her journey through the tech and startup consulting world. With a strong foundation in supporting SMEs across Africa and internationally, she brings a wealth of experience and insight to the group. Now stepping into the role of an innovator, she and her team are leading an IT company that provides end-to-end infrastructure and IT services.
As Ms. Mutua explained, their company’s mission is driven by the challenges they have observed while working with external technologies. Recognizing gaps, they are now focused on delivering more impactful services that address real needs. Ms. Mutua’s enthusiasm to connect and exchange ideas with fellow innovators was palpable, reflecting her commitment to creating positive change through technology. Her message underscores the event's spirit of collaboration and the potential to make a meaningful impact through shared experiences and innovative thinking.
Ms. Juliet Low and Mr. Rocco Ciracì:
Ms. Juliet Low, a seasoned entrepreneur from Singapore, shared her diverse journey spanning across continents - from the US to Europe, to Hong Kong, and eventually to Singapore, where she is now making an impact through social enterprise. Having had a tech startup exit a decade ago, she initially thought her next chapter would be in retirement. However, she felt a renewed call to create meaningful change, particularly as someone who has faced the challenges of being a chronic patient with three autoimmune conditions. Her personal experience with misdiagnoses and prolonged recovery from early-onset dementia inspired her first social enterprise, which builds a supportive network for chronic patients to connect, share resources, and access clinical trials.
Currently, Ms. Juliet Low is focused on her latest venture, Maid Without Borders, an innovative app aimed at transforming how employers find caregivers and domestic help. By utilizing blockchain-based identity verification and local authentication systems, the platform simplifies the hiring process, helping workers avoid hefty agency fees and financial obligations that often consume several months of their salaries. This app also supports dynamic language translation, empowering users in regions like Indonesia to display their skills and credentials more effectively. She envisions a platform where caregivers are respected for their expertise rather than viewed as commodities, while also supporting families seeking specialized care for loved ones with complex health needs. Through her work, Ms. Low embodies a commitment to equality, empowerment, and humanizing the caregiving industry. She concluded her introduction with a warm invitation to connect with others, reflecting the collaborative spirit of the event.
In an inspiring moment of collaboration, Mr. Rocco Ciracì shared their excitement about the potential synergies between their startup, FlorenceCare, and the innovative work Ms. Juliet Low is leading with Maid Without Borders. They recognized common ground in their missions to improve processes in caregiving and support services, seeing how FlorenceCare’s technology could enhance Ms. Low’s app by automating many of the manual processes involved. Acknowledging the differing legal landscapes between Europe and Asia - particularly around GDPR - Mr. Ciracì noted how Ms. Low’s platform could capitalize on these differences for even greater efficiency. This thoughtful exchange highlighted the power of shared goals and complementary solutions, setting the stage for future partnerships and innovations that make a difference in the caregiving sector across regions.
Mr. Abhishek Kumar:
Mr. Abhishek Kumar, from Health Innov8, shared an inspiring story of resilience and commitment that began during the pandemic. In 2020, witnessing widespread suffering, he initiated a community-driven ambulance service, saving over 200 lives - a project that received media coverage and community recognition. His dedication reflects a belief in the power of giving back, emphasizing that societal contributions bring invaluable blessings and a sense of purpose.
With a background in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, he has over 12 years of experience and has navigated both successes and setbacks in the startup world. His initial venture may not have lasted, but it laid the foundation for his current successes: two ventures, Health Innov8 and Invento Biohealthtech. Additionally, his previous initiative focuses on mentoring young entrepreneurs across universities and colleges, inspiring them to drive societal change through innovation.
Mr. Abhishek Kumar’s journey is a testament to resilience and community impact, and he extends an open invitation to connect and collaborate on LinkedIn, fostering a network of like-minded individuals who are passionate about positive change.
Mr. Hendrik Kohl:
Mr. Hendrik Kohl, from Impact Forest UG, joining from Domodossola, Italy, is spearheading impactful solutions in soil and water management, a field he emphasizes as vital to combating climate change. His company, based in Frankfurt, has been receiving enthusiastic feedback from landscape architects and designers, who increasingly recognize the urgency of sustainable rainwater and greywater management to protect diminishing groundwater supplies globally. Mr. Kohl points out that rainwater is a freely available resource, offering significant untapped potential when paired with innovative techniques.
A key component of his work is biochar, particularly in the form of terra preta, a carbon-negative material derived from the pyrolysis of agricultural and organic waste. This process not only prevents carbon dioxide from re-entering the atmosphere but also yields biochar, a substance with remarkable benefits for soil health. Biochar enriches soil with essential microorganisms, enhances water retention, and can even filter out toxins in contaminated environments. Hendrik highlights that biochar is forecasted to become a $3 billion market by 2030 - a testament to its growing importance.
Through his efforts in landscape design, agriculture, and forestry, Mr. Hendrik Kohl is driving the adoption of biochar-enhanced water retention systems that build soil resilience and promote sustainable ecosystems. His work showcases the power of nature-based solutions in healing the earth, and he warmly invites anyone interested to connect for further discussion.
Video: https://youtu.be/EiLO6vwZR2s
3.3. Round 2
Impact Innovators’ sharing:
A. Mr. Hendrik Koh - Impact Forest UG, Natural Sponge Systems Vietnam | Theme: Green Initiatives & Goal: Idea Pitching
The global climate crisis is becoming more evident in regions that traditionally haven’t faced issues like droughts or floods. Countries such as Scandinavia, which once had consistent rainfall, are now experiencing dry seasons, while others are grappling with intense flooding. This disruption in ecosystems underscores the urgent need for action, with one of the most effective solutions being the healing of soil. While planting diverse plants and trees is important, the health of the soil remains the primary issue crucial for the sustainability of ecosystems.
One proven method to improve soil health is through community planting projects that involve schools, municipalities, and companies. These initiatives not only benefit the environment but also strengthen communities by providing educational opportunities and contributing to local ecosystems. Success lies in creating synergies between plant species, ensuring the right balance to support resilience and combat climate change. Projects like tree planting and wildflower pollinator gardens help cool the climate, enhance biodiversity, and support the well-being of local populations.
An innovative solution to soil restoration is the use of biochar, particularly terra preta, which functions like a super sponge. Biochar is a highly porous material that retains water and provides a long-term habitat for beneficial microorganisms. For example, just one gram of biochar has a surface area equivalent to two tennis courts, making it highly effective in water retention. This capability is crucial for improving soil quality and ensuring long-term agricultural productivity.
The business model surrounding biochar production involves creating large-scale production sites with an initial investment of approximately $300,000, and annual operating costs ranging between $70,000 and $130,000. Biochar production not only offers economic benefits, such as earning carbon credits, but also enhances agricultural yields and productivity. Additionally, it contributes to reforestation efforts by incorporating water retention systems that slow the flow of water and help keep it in the landscape, rejuvenating soils.
These interventions, especially in regions like Europe, where high costs can be a barrier to climate resilience, are relatively low-cost and offer a practical solution to the challenges of flooding and drought. In Vietnam, for example, there is great potential to utilize biochar, leveraging resources like rice and sugarcane production for energy and agricultural improvements. By incorporating these systems, not only can landscapes and ecosystems be restored, but significant progress can be made toward creating sustainable, climate-resilient communities across the globe.
B. Mr. Rocco Ciracì - FlorenceCare | Theme: Healthcare & Goal: Problem Solving
Mr. Rocco Ciracì, CEO of FlorenceCare, shared his personal journey that led him to create a solution addressing the challenges faced by family caregivers and the aging population. Four years ago, after his mother was injured in an accident, Mr. Ciracì became a caregiver himself, which deepened his understanding of the fragmented healthcare system, especially for elderly individuals. He realized that the growing aging population, particularly in Europe and beyond, faces multiple comorbidities and a disjointed healthcare system, with patients and caregivers having to navigate a variety of platforms and services. This fragmentation results in inefficiencies, increased costs, and dissatisfaction.
FlorenceCare offers an innovative solution with its cloud-based AI platform that connects patients, family caregivers, and healthcare professionals through two apps. The first app is for patients or caregivers, while the second is for healthcare professionals, who can register as freelancers on the platform. FlorenceCare’s platform integrates over 100 healthcare services, including nurses, physiotherapists, radiologists, and other specialists, providing home-based care and efficient data management.
The platform is user-friendly, allowing patients to order services, view professionals' profiles, and manage their health data through a timeline, dashboard, and photo gallery. All collected data can easily be shared with family doctors or specialists. What sets FlorenceCare apart is its comprehensive approach to healthcare, offering real-time connections with multiple professionals while maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of health data. The business model operates on a "pay-per-use" basis, charging a service fee for both patients and professionals. Additionally, FlorenceCare monetizes anonymized and aggregated health data, contributing to its financial growth.
FlorenceCare targets both B2C and B2B markets, with plans to collaborate with insurance companies and corporate welfare programs. The platform also aligns with SDG 3 and SDG 8, with plans to scale up within the next three years.
Mr. Ciracì’s team includes experienced professionals such as finance experts, AWS solution architects, and GDPR and data protection specialists, providing a solid foundation for their ambitious goals. FlorenceCare’s technology is scalable, and Mr. Ciracì believes the platform can transform healthcare delivery, not only in Europe but globally, offering a glimpse into the future of home healthcare.
C. Ms. Margaret Mutheu Mutua - Elevate SMEs Ltd | Theme: Ecosystem Building & Goal: Idea Pitching
Ms. Margaret Mutheu Mutua, from Nairobi, Kenya, presented her innovative IT solution aimed at addressing power reliability issues in network and surveillance equipment. Her company focuses on IT consultancy and network design, and Ms. Mutua emphasized the critical need for reliable power in remote locations, where grid power is often unstable, and traditional sources like generators are environmentally damaging due to noise and emissions.
To tackle this challenge, Ms. Mutua introduced EVERCONNECT, a solar-powered solution designed to ensure uninterrupted power for Ethernet switches and routers. By harnessing solar energy, EVERCONNECT offers reliable connectivity even in off-grid areas, making it an ideal solution for the growing global demand for renewable energy, especially in Africa, where solar adoption is on the rise and climate concerns are mounting.
In Kenya, where over 90% of power comes from solar, the potential for solar-powered solutions is vast. However, despite this, Kenya represents just 1% of the global solar generation, underscoring the need to increase solar energy usage in sub-Saharan Africa. EVERCONNECT also leverages the rise of Power over Ethernet technology, simplifying connections in remote areas and addressing the increasing need for consistent connectivity.
While competitors offer similar solutions, EVERCONNECT distinguishes itself with high-efficiency solar panels, AI integration, edge computing in routers, and a durable design tailored for off-grid environments. Its competitive pricing and focus on niche markets like agriculture and disaster relief make it a particularly appealing solution for industries critical to the region’s development.
The EVERCONNECT team, led by Ms. Mutua and CTO Mr. Victor, brings expertise in networking and security. They are currently seeking funding and partnerships to develop a prototype and bring their solution to market.
With EVERCONNECT, Ms. Mutua and her team aim to make a significant impact on connectivity and the adoption of renewable energy in Africa, driving sustainable and reliable network solutions in regions that need them most.
Video: https://youtu.be/Z3GkHbf8CO0
Sharing between Impact Innovators and Impact Supporters:
A. Sharing between Mr. Sajal Sahu and Mr. Hendrik Kohl:
- Mr. Sajal Sahu: He asked about how this initiative, which has already been undertaken by many non-profit organizations, will generate revenue in the future. He also raised concerns about the significant resources and labor force required for the project and inquired how it would be scaled.
- Mr. Hendrik Kohl:
In this discussion, Mr. Hendrik Kohl shared insights into their company's revenue model and impactful community projects. The company, which initially started in Germany and other European countries, operates as a technical consultancy. While primarily a for-profit business, they collaborate with nonprofits and focus on sustainable solutions, such as biochar production, a promising area in the carbon credit market. Biochar, used as a soil enhancer, can be sold to farmers and in gardening, creating significant opportunities for both environmental and economic benefits.
Additionally, Mr. Hendrik Kohl emphasized the growing interest in biochar and its educational potential. Schools, driven by increasing environmental concerns, are engaging in community plantings, incorporating biochar to enhance soil. This approach not only benefits the environment but also fosters hands-on learning, making it more impactful than traditional school trips.
The company also partners with municipalities and businesses to organize planting initiatives, which double as team-building activities. These community engagement efforts contribute to scaling their workforce while creating social value. Ultimately, Mr. Hendrik Kohl stressed the importance of soil as the foundation for growth, stating that a healthy, sponge-like soil is essential for successful plant life.
B. Sharing between Ms. Juliet Low and Mr. Rocco Ciracì:
- Ms. Juliet Low: She asked Rocco about two main concerns. First, she inquired about the liability situation, specifically how background checks, employment visa checks, and verification of credentials for professionals like podiatrists and physiotherapists are handled. Ms. Low also wanted to know what happens if a mistake occurs, such as a neck injury during treatment, and who holds the final liability. The second concern was about the expansion plans, particularly in navigating the complexity of multiple paymasters, including the state, insurance companies, and patients themselves. She pointed out that expanding across Europe would involve different paymasters in each region, like the NHS in London, and asked how the company plans to manage this complexity.
- Mr. Rocco Ciracì:
He shared a comprehensive overview of their platform's unique approach to connecting healthcare professionals with patients. Unlike competitors in markets like Italy and Spain, the platform differentiates itself by not being a simple marketplace. Instead, it functions as a software that facilitates connections between healthcare professionals and patients while ensuring that the professionals are properly registered and certified. Only professionals enrolled in official healthcare colleges can join the platform, ensuring credibility and trust. This verification process is automated via API checks, ensuring quick and accurate validation.
The platform also emphasizes the importance of standardized services. Unlike the typical cash-based transactions in southern Europe, where healthcare professionals have flexibility in service duration, the platform ensures that services follow official procedures with a checklist that professionals must sign on their app. This system not only ensures service quality but also makes it possible to provide insurance coverage for professionals, as they can demonstrate compliance with the procedure.
The business model is evolving, with the platform initially targeting the B2C market, where patients pay a small fee for using the app and professionals pay a fee for the services they earn. Additionally, Mr. Rocco Ciracì highlighted the potential for B2G collaborations, particularly with government healthcare systems like the NHS, where there is a growing need for service integration in community and primary care.
Expanding into different markets is also a key focus. With full compliance with GDPR and high standards of cybersecurity, the platform is ready to scale globally, facing more cultural and business challenges than technical ones. He also noted that partnerships with insurance companies like Zurich are being explored, where prepaid service packs could be offered to policyholders, further broadening the platform's potential.
In summary, the platform stands out in the healthcare market by offering a regulated, professional service, focusing on compliance and quality, and exploring various revenue models, including B2C, B2G, and insurance partnerships.
C. Sharing from Ms. Juliet Low to Ms. Margaret Mutheu Mutua:
- Ms. Juliet Low:
Ms. Juliet Low offered valuable advice on how to approach funding and partnerships for disaster relief products. For those seeking a grant of around $150,000, she recommended reaching out to the United Nations, which offers grants specifically for disaster relief efforts. Additionally, attending the Natural Disasters Expo, a global event that travels to different countries, could provide crucial networking opportunities. This expo connects participants with key players in the disaster relief sector, making it an ideal venue for forging partnerships and expanding connections.
Beyond just securing funding, Ms. Juliet Low suggested a strategic approach where businesses could work directly with UN departments or disaster relief organizations. This collaboration might lead to these entities becoming customers, reducing the need for upfront investment in production. Instead, businesses could book clients on a prepaid basis, ensuring that products are ready when disaster strikes. This model would allow businesses to manage inventory more effectively and avoid producing large quantities in advance. By offering a "package" of goods that can be quickly deployed via air freight, companies can prepare for emergencies while maintaining financial stability through prepaid contracts.
In summary, Ms. Juliet Low's approach emphasizes leveraging international partnerships, strategic events like the Natural Disasters Expo, and innovative prepaid business models to secure funding and build reliable customer bases in disaster relief efforts.
Video: https://youtu.be/YW4MlahXkbA
4️⃣ Thanks and Closing Up
As the SIIA New Member Initiation Event drew to a close, heartfelt thanks were extended to all participants for their active engagement and invaluable insights. The discussions throughout the day underscored the remarkable potential of collective action in Healthcare, Green initiatives, and Ecosystem Building. Special appreciation was given to the Impact Innovators for presenting their visionary projects and to the Impact Supporters for offering thoughtful feedback and inquiries.
Participants were encouraged to revisit and contribute to the collaborative documents and feedback shared during the Event, as these resources will remain open for ongoing discussions and connections. A few important next steps were outlined: Member Projects are encouraged to actively cross-promote the Event and their projects on social media to broaden the reach of their impact. Additionally, participants can look forward to the upcoming minigame rewards announcement, where select Impact Supporters will receive Amazon e-gift cards in recognition of their contributions.
All attendees will receive a follow-up email with detailed summaries of discussions, shared resources, and actionable next steps to support continued collaboration. The Event concluded on an inspiring note, with a warm send-off and hopes that participants left motivated to pursue impactful projects alongside new partners and fresh ideas. Looking ahead, we are excited to see the positive change that will emerge from today’s connections and conversations.
Video: https://youtu.be/SNPb09FiCsM