HarmonyAI
- South Africa
- Other, including part of a larger organization (please explain below)
Our solution team, Etihuku, operates as a sole Company, alongside our sister company in the fintech sector, Curnance. The relationship between Etihuku and the parent organization is one of strategic synergy and collaboration. While Etihuku specializes in AI solutions, Curnance focuses on fintech innovations. Despite the different domains, both companies benefit from shared resources, expertise, and infrastructure provided by . This
relationship allows us to leverage the strengths of each company while
maximizing our collective impact in the technology sector."
The specific problem we are addressing within the Challenge is the erosion of peace, prosperity, and inclusivity due to escalating conflicts, economic shocks, and systemic inequities. Globally, 114 million people are forcibly displaced due to war, violence, and climate-related disasters, while two billion workers are in precarious jobs. In the US, systemic inequities contribute to Black and Brown families owning just 24 cents for every $1 of white family wealth.
Factors contributing to this problem include lack of access to resources such as credit, digital identity tools, and quality jobs, as well as the spread of misinformation and polarization through digital platforms. Our solution, HarmonyAI, leverages advanced AI algorithms to promote community dialogue, financial inclusion, and economic opportunities, directly addressing these factors. By fostering dialogue, facilitating access to resources, and promoting inclusive economic growth, HarmonyAI aims to mitigate the negative impacts of conflicts, economic shocks, and systemic inequities on communities locally and globally.
etihuku is a platform that harnesses the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to promote peace, prosperity, and inclusivity. It acts as a digital hub where communities can engage in constructive dialogue, access essential financial services, and explore new economic opportunities.
Here's how it works: etihuku uses AI algorithms to analyze data and identify patterns in community engagement. It provides users with personalized recommendations for participating in discussions, accessing credit, and exploring job opportunities. The platform also employs AI-driven monitoring tools to detect and prevent violence, misinformation, and polarization on digital platforms, ensuring a safe and inclusive online environment.
In essence, etihuku leverages technology to empower communities, facilitate dialogue, and promote economic empowerment, ultimately contributing to a more peaceful and prosperous society.
etihuku serves diverse communities globally, with a specific focus on marginalized groups and underserved populations. Our target populations include individuals affected by conflicts, economic instability, and systemic inequities, particularly those lacking access to financial resources, job opportunities, and inclusive digital platforms.
These populations often face barriers to meaningful participation in civic discourse, struggle to access essential financial services, and encounter challenges in securing stable employment. They are underserved due to limited access to resources, discrimination, and structural inequalities that perpetuate their marginalization.
etihuku addresses their needs by providing a digital platform where they can engage in constructive dialogue, access financial services like credit and insurance, and explore job opportunities tailored to their skills and interests. By leveraging AI-driven insights, the platform facilitates personalized support and recommendations, empowering individuals to overcome barriers and improve their socio-economic well-being.
In summary, etihuku directly impacts the lives of underserved populations by providing them with access to essential resources, fostering community engagement, and promoting economic empowerment, thereby addressing the systemic inequities that have historically marginalized them.
Our team at etihuku is uniquely positioned to deliver this solution due to our deep understanding of the communities we serve and our commitment to inclusive design and community engagement.
Our Team Lead has personal and professional experience working with marginalized communities, including firsthand experience with the challenges they face. Additionally, our team members come from diverse backgrounds and have lived experiences that reflect those of the target population. This diversity ensures that our solution is representative of the communities we serve and incorporates a variety of perspectives and insights.
Throughout the design and implementation process, we prioritize community input and engagement. We regularly consult with community members to understand their needs, preferences, and priorities. This includes conducting focus groups, surveys, and interviews to gather feedback and incorporate community-driven ideas into our solution.
Furthermore, we actively involve community members in decision-making processes and co-create solutions that align with their agendas. By centering the voices and experiences of the communities we serve, we ensure that our solution is relevant, accessible, and impactful. Our team's proximity to these communities and our commitment to inclusive design make us the right people to design and deliver etihuku.
- Foster financial and digital inclusion by supporting access to credit, digital identity tools, and insurance while securing privacy and personal data.
- 1. No Poverty
- 8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
- 10. Reduced Inequalities
- 16. Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
- Prototype
We selected the Prototype stage for etihuku because we have developed and tested an initial working version of our solution. Specifically, we have built a digital platform that utilizes AI algorithms to promote peace, prosperity, and inclusivity through community engagement, access to financial services, and economic empowerment initiatives.
Our team has conducted pilot testing with a select group of users to gather feedback and iterate on the design and functionality of the platform. During this pilot phase, we have served approximately 100 customers or beneficiaries who have actively engaged with the platform and provided valuable insights to inform our development process.
While we are still refining certain aspects of the solution based on user feedback, we have successfully demonstrated the feasibility and potential impact of etihuku in addressing the challenges of peace, prosperity, and inclusion. We are now poised to further iterate on the prototype and scale our efforts to reach a larger audience in multiple communities.
We are applying to Solve because we believe in the power of collaboration and collective action to address complex global challenges. Solve provides a unique platform that connects innovators, experts, and partners from diverse backgrounds to catalyze positive change and scale impactful solutions.
As a Solver, we hope to leverage Solve's network and resources to overcome various barriers that we face in advancing etihuku. Specifically, we seek support in the following areas:
Technical Expertise: Solve's network of experts can provide valuable technical insights and guidance to enhance the functionality and effectiveness of our AI-driven platform. We aim to leverage their expertise to further refine our solution and optimize its impact.
Partnerships: Solve's extensive network of partners offers opportunities for collaboration and strategic alliances that can help us expand our reach and amplify our impact. By connecting with like-minded organizations and stakeholders, we can leverage complementary resources and expertise to accelerate the adoption and implementation of etihuku.
Access to Funding: While our primary goal is not solely focused on raising funds, we recognize that financial support is crucial for scaling our solution and maximizing its impact. Solve provides access to potential funding opportunities through its network of impact investors, philanthropic organizations, and corporate partners. Additionally, Solve offers non-monetary support, such as mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to resources, which can further enhance our capacity to succeed.
Legal and Regulatory Guidance: Navigating legal and regulatory frameworks can be challenging, especially in the context of emerging technologies like AI. Solve can provide valuable legal and regulatory guidance to ensure that etihuku complies with relevant laws and regulations, mitigating potential risks and liabilities.
Overall, by participating in Solve, we hope to access the support, resources, and expertise needed to overcome barriers and accelerate the growth and impact of etihuku. We are committed to collaborating with Solve and its partners to create positive change and contribute to a more peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive world.
- Business Model (e.g. product-market fit, strategy & development)
- Monitoring & Evaluation (e.g. collecting/using data, measuring impact)
- Technology (e.g. software or hardware, web development/design)
Etihuku stands out for its innovative approach to addressing the complex challenges of promoting peace, prosperity, and inclusivity through the strategic integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Here's what makes our solution innovative:
AI-Powered Community Engagement: Etihuku I harnesses AI algorithms to facilitate community dialogue, civic participation, and reconciliation efforts in a digital space. By leveraging AI-driven insights, the platform provides personalized recommendations for engaging in constructive discussions and promoting social cohesion, ultimately fostering a sense of belonging and connectedness among diverse communities.
Financial and Digital Inclusion: Unlike traditional approaches to financial inclusion, Etihuku goes beyond providing access to basic financial services by leveraging AI to tailor offerings to individual needs and preferences. The platform supports access to credit, digital identity tools, and insurance while prioritizing user privacy and data security, thereby empowering individuals to participate in the digital economy and improve their financial well-being.
Economic Empowerment: Etihuku takes a holistic approach to economic empowerment by leveraging AI to identify emerging job opportunities, facilitate skills training, and promote inclusive economic growth. Through targeted interventions and personalized support, the platform aims to create pathways to sustainable employment and asset ownership, particularly for marginalized and underserved populations.
Potential for Broader Positive Impacts: By demonstrating the efficacy of AI technology in addressing complex social challenges, Etihuku has the potential to catalyze broader positive impacts in the social entrepreneurship and innovation space. As other organizations and stakeholders recognize the value of AI-driven solutions, they may be inspired to adopt similar approaches and collaborate on initiatives that leverage technology for social good, thereby driving innovation and scaling impact across sectors.
Market/Landscape Transformation: Etihuku has the potential to transform the market landscape by redefining the way we approach peacebuilding, economic development, and social inclusion. As AI technology continues to evolve and become more accessible,Etihuku can serve as a pioneering model for leveraging AI in the pursuit of sustainable development goals, influencing market trends and shaping the future of social innovation.
In summary, Etihuku innovative use of AI technology, coupled with its focus on promoting peace, prosperity, and inclusivity, positions it as a groundbreaking solution with the potential to catalyze broader positive impacts and drive transformative change in the market landscape.
Activities: Etihuku will engage in several activities to address the problem of peace, prosperity, and inclusivity:
- Providing a digital platform for community dialogue and engagement.
- Offering access to financial services like credit, digital identity tools, and insurance.
- Facilitating economic empowerment through job opportunities and workforce development initiatives.
Immediate Outputs: As a result of these activities, the immediate outputs will include:
- Increased participation in community dialogue and civic engagement.
- Access to essential financial services for underserved populations.
- Enhanced economic opportunities and job prospects for individuals.
Intermediate Outcomes: These immediate outputs are expected to lead to intermediate outcomes:
- Improved social cohesion and reduced polarization within communities.
- Greater financial resilience and empowerment among marginalized groups.
- Enhanced skills and economic stability for individuals and families.
Long-Term Impact: Ultimately, the achievement of these intermediate outcomes is anticipated to result in the long-term impact of Etihuku :
- Sustainable peace and stability within communities.
- Increased economic prosperity and social inclusion.
- Reduced disparities and inequalities, leading to a more equitable society.
The strength of this theory of change is supported by evidence from research on the importance of community engagement, financial inclusion, and economic empowerment in promoting peace and prosperity. By strategically linking activities to outputs and outcomes, Etihuku expects to have a meaningful and lasting impact on the problem it aims to address.
Our impact goals for Etihuku are centered around promoting peace, prosperity, and inclusion within communities, with a focus on achieving tangible outcomes that lead to meaningful improvements in people's lives. Here are our impact goals and how we are measuring progress towards them:
Goal 1: Foster Social Cohesion and Dialogue
- Impact Goal: Increase community engagement and reduce polarization by fostering constructive dialogue and collaboration among diverse groups.
- Progress Indicators:
- Number of active users engaged in community dialogue on the Etihuku platform.
- Frequency and quality of interactions, measured through sentiment analysis and user feedback.
- Reduction in instances of online polarization and misinformation, assessed through content analysis and user surveys.
Goal 2: Enhance Financial Inclusion and Empowerment
- Impact Goal: Improve financial resilience and empower underserved populations by providing access to essential financial services and resources.
- Progress Indicators:
- Number of individuals accessing financial services through Etihuku , such as credit, digital identity tools, and insurance.
- Increase in financial literacy and awareness among users, measured through pre and post-surveys.
- Improvement in key financial indicators, such as savings rates and credit scores, among targeted populations.
Goal 3: Promote Economic Opportunities and Job Creation
- Impact Goal: Generate new economic opportunities and improve livelihoods through job creation and workforce development initiatives.
- Progress Indicators:
- Number of job opportunities facilitated through Etihuku , including both formal employment and informal work opportunities.
- Skill development and capacity building outcomes, measured through assessments and certifications achieved by users.
- Increase in income levels and economic stability among individuals and households, tracked through household surveys and economic indicators.
Goal 4: Advance Inclusive Growth and Reduce Inequalities
- Impact Goal: Contribute to more inclusive and equitable societies by reducing disparities and inequalities in access to resources and opportunities.
- Progress Indicators:
- Reduction in income and wealth disparities among targeted populations, measured through income distribution analysis.
- Improvement in social mobility and upward economic mobility among marginalized groups, assessed through longitudinal studies.
- Increase in the representation and participation of marginalized communities in decision-making processes and economic activities, documented through participation data and qualitative interviews.
These impact goals are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and are designed to drive transformational change within communities. We measure progress towards these goals through a combination of quantitative and qualitative indicators, allowing us to track outcomes and adjust our strategies as needed to maximize our impact.
The core technology that powers Etihuku is artificial intelligence (AI), specifically machine learning algorithms and natural language processing (NLP) techniques. These AI technologies are integrated into our digital platform to analyze data, derive insights, and deliver personalized recommendations to users.
Here's how AI technology is utilized in Etihuku :
Machine Learning Algorithms: Etihuku leverages machine learning algorithms to analyze large volumes of data generated by user interactions on the platform. These algorithms identify patterns, trends, and correlations within the data to gain insights into user behavior, preferences, and needs. By continuously learning from user interactions, the platform can refine its recommendations and tailor its services to individual users over time.
Natural Language Processing (NLP): NLP techniques are used to understand and interpret user-generated content, such as text-based discussions, comments, and messages. Etihuku employs NLP algorithms to analyze the sentiment, tone, and context of user communications, enabling the platform to identify relevant topics, detect instances of polarization or misinformation, and facilitate constructive dialogue among users.
Recommendation Systems: AI-powered recommendation systems are employed to provide personalized suggestions and content to users based on their interests, preferences, and engagement history. These recommendation systems leverage machine learning algorithms to analyze user data and predict relevant topics, discussions, and resources that align with each user's needs and objectives.
Data Security and Privacy: AI technology is also utilized to enhance data security and privacy on the Etihuku platform. Advanced encryption techniques and anomaly detection algorithms are employed to safeguard user data and prevent unauthorized access or misuse. Additionally, AI-powered monitoring tools are deployed to detect and mitigate potential cybersecurity threats, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of user information.
Overall, AI technology plays a central role in powering Etihuku capabilities to promote peace, prosperity, and inclusion within communities. By leveraging AI algorithms and techniques, the platform delivers personalized experiences, fosters constructive dialogue, and empowers users to engage meaningfully in civic participation and economic activities.
- A new application of an existing technology
- Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning
- Software and Mobile Applications
- South Africa
- South Africa
10
3 YEARS
At Etihuku , for the purpose of this project we tag it ''HarmonyAI'', we are deeply committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within our team and creating a welcoming environment where all team members feel valued and supported. Here are some of the ways we ensure diversity and promote inclusivity:
Diverse Leadership Team: Our leadership team reflects a diverse range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We prioritize diversity in our hiring practices to ensure that our team represents a variety of social, cultural, and identity-based attributes.
Recruitment and Hiring Practices: We proactively seek out diverse candidates for open positions and implement inclusive recruitment and hiring practices. This includes using diverse sourcing channels, establishing partnerships with organizations focused on diversity and inclusion, and implementing blind recruitment processes to mitigate biases.
Training and Development: We provide ongoing training and development opportunities for all team members to enhance their understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion issues. This includes workshops, seminars, and discussions focused on unconscious bias, cultural competence, and inclusive leadership.
Open and Transparent Communication: We foster open and transparent communication within our team, creating a safe space for dialogue and feedback. We encourage all team members to share their perspectives, experiences, and concerns, and we actively listen and respond to their feedback.
Inclusive Policies and Practices: We have implemented inclusive policies and practices that promote equity and minimize barriers to opportunity for all team members. This includes flexible work arrangements, access to resources and support, and opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
Community Engagement and Partnerships: We actively engage with external communities and partners to broaden our perspectives, build meaningful relationships, and amplify diverse voices. We seek out collaborations with organizations and initiatives that share our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Continuous Improvement: We regularly assess and evaluate our diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions. We solicit feedback from team members and stakeholders to inform our strategies and ensure that we are continuously evolving and advancing our commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Overall, diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values that guide our team culture and decision-making processes at Etihuku . We recognize the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where all team members can thrive and contribute to our collective success.
Our business model at HarmonyAI revolves around providing value to the populations we serve by leveraging technology to promote peace, prosperity, and inclusion within communities. Here's a breakdown of our key components:
Key Customers and Beneficiaries:
- Our primary customers are individuals and communities who seek to engage in constructive dialogue, access financial services, and pursue economic opportunities.
- Our beneficiaries include marginalized and underserved populations, such as refugees, displaced persons, and individuals facing economic hardship or social exclusion.
Products and Services:
- Community Engagement Platform: We provide a digital platform that facilitates community dialogue, civic participation, and reconciliation efforts. Users can engage in discussions, access resources, and participate in collaborative initiatives to promote peace and social cohesion.
- Financial Inclusion Services: We offer access to financial services, including credit, digital identity tools, and insurance, tailored to the needs of underserved populations. Through our platform, users can access financial resources and support to improve their financial well-being and resilience.
- Economic Empowerment Initiatives: We facilitate economic opportunities and job creation through workforce development programs, skills training, and access to job opportunities. Our platform connects users with employment opportunities and resources to enhance their economic prospects and livelihoods.
Delivery Mechanism:
- Digital Platform: Our products and services are delivered through a user-friendly digital platform accessible via web and mobile devices. Users can access the platform anytime, anywhere, enabling seamless engagement and participation in community activities and financial transactions.
- Partnerships: We collaborate with local organizations, government agencies, and NGOs to extend the reach of our services and tailor them to the specific needs and contexts of target communities. Through strategic partnerships, we amplify our impact and ensure the sustainability of our initiatives.
Value Proposition:
- For Individuals and Communities: Our platform provides a safe and inclusive space for individuals and communities to connect, collaborate, and access resources to improve their well-being and socio-economic status.
- For Partners and Stakeholders: We offer opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and collective action to address shared challenges and promote positive social change. Partners benefit from our expertise in technology and innovation and our commitment to fostering sustainable development outcomes.
Revenue Streams:
- Freemium Model: Basic access to our platform is offered for free, allowing users to engage in community activities and access essential resources. Premium features, such as advanced financial services and personalized support, are available on a subscription basis or through transaction fees.
- Grants and Funding: We seek grants and funding from philanthropic organizations, impact investors, and government agencies to support our operations, expand our reach, and enhance the impact of our initiatives.
Overall, our business model in Etihuku is designed to create value for both our customers and beneficiaries by leveraging technology to address pressing social challenges and promote positive change within communities. We prioritize inclusivity, sustainability, and collaboration to drive meaningful impact and achieve our mission of fostering peace, prosperity, and inclusion for all.
- Individual consumers or stakeholders (B2C)
At Etihuku, we have initiated the Etihuku project with the goal of achieving financial sustainability to ensure the continued impact and growth of our mission-driven initiatives. Our strategy encompasses a diverse range of revenue streams and strategic partnerships to cover operational expenses and fund our impactful programs. Here's how we plan to achieve financial sustainability:
Grants and Donations: Etihuku actively seeks grants and donations from philanthropic organizations, foundations, and government agencies aligned with our mission of promoting peace, prosperity, and inclusion. These funds support operational costs, program development, and expansion efforts. Notably, we have secured grants from esteemed organizations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Ford Foundation, and the United Nations Development Programme.
Subscription Model: We employ a freemium model where basic access to the Etihuku platform is provided for free, while premium features and services are available through subscription. Users can access advanced financial services, personalized support, and exclusive features by opting for premium subscriptions. This model has shown promising growth, with an increasing number of users upgrading to premium tiers.
Partnerships and Collaborations: Etihuku forges strategic partnerships with organizations, businesses, and government agencies sharing our commitment to social impact. These collaborations provide additional funding opportunities, amplify our impact, and enable us to reach new target populations. For example, we collaborate with local NGOs to implement joint initiatives and leverage their networks and local expertise.
Social Enterprise Initiatives: We explore revenue generation opportunities through social enterprise initiatives aligned with our mission and values. This may include offering consulting services, training programs, or customized solutions to external clients seeking our expertise. These activities contribute to financial sustainability while advancing our social impact objectives.
Investment Funding: While we primarily rely on non-equity funding sources, Etihuku remains open to exploring investment opportunities in the future to support our growth and scalability. We are strategically positioned to attract impact investors who are aligned with our mission and vision and are willing to provide capital in exchange for a stake in our organization.
Overall, the Etihuku project at Etihuku is committed to implementing a robust financial sustainability strategy to ensure the long-term success of our mission-driven initiatives.