Ethiopian Diaspora Coalition

Hello, we are the Ethiopian Diaspora Coalition, EDC for short, and we are happy to present to you our project A Maker Space Initiative!

As the fastest growing economy globally (World Bank), Ethiopia seeks to expand its STEM-educated workforce to cultivate its technological sector. Our innovation introduces a technology-focused space called Maker Space in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where students, professors, and entrepreneurs can gather to work on research, practical hands-on lessons, and entrepreneurial ventures. The Maker Space will contain microcontroller boards, solder stations, an assortment of resistors and sensors, and accessories such as wheels and servo motors. There will also be manufacturing tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, tools, and mini CNC machines. We will charge an hourly fee or a set weekly/monthly contract payment for startups and other professionals to use the space's equipment. This revenue will fund the rent for the space, equipment breakage fees, and staff members' salaries. Along with the entrepreneurial uses, the Maker Space will also serve the community by helping grow interest among young kids in STEM. The space will be used during weekends to host a high school program free of charge, where cohorts of students will come for 8 sessions over the month where they will be introduced to science and technology through exciting, interactive lessons and activities.