SA tech NPO Silicon Cape and the US Mission to SA announced Team Basket as the winner of their third virtual hackathon on 27 June 2021.
The hackathon is three of four in this partnered initiative, called ‘Hackathons for SA: Digital Solutions for Real-World Challenges’. The programme aims to discover digital solutions to accelerate inclusive economic growth for businesses in SA’s township economy.
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Team Basket’s instant township delivery service
Team Basket walked away with the R25 000 grand prize. Team leader Esihle Vellem described their concept: “We help street vendors and spaza shops buy fresh produce from small-scale farmers and wholesalers by providing them with an online application and an instant delivery service. With this model, we address issues such as running out of stock and having to close down the stand or buy from fellow vendors at a higher price, lack of quality control and the absence of an online stock management system to track orders. Plus, they benefit from pre-negotiated discounts, produce that is delivered with a quality assurance guarantee, and the ability to make bi-weekly purchases with safe delivery assurance.”
The hackathons aim to find digital solutions to support SA’s township economy
In addition, Team Basket won a Silicon Cape membership valued at R1 600 and $2 000 in Amazon Web Services credits. Silicon Cape is a leading ecosystem enabler for tech-enabled start-ups; Team Basket will be connected with accelerators, mentors, and other relevant community members such as developers, angel investors and venture capitalists to help take their solution to market.
The R15 000 second place prize went to Soft Glitch for their ‘Commiploy’ concept, a gig opportunity platform that enables communities to purchase local products, access services and apply for various odd jobs. Team leader Shaqeel Less explained that the platform is geared towards businesses, customers, and unemployed youth. “Our vision is to build up and sustain local businesses and provide opportunities for local communities to grow with them,” he said.
Acting Public Affairs Officer at the US Consulate General in Cape Town, Emily Shaffer, said, “We were blown away by the innovative ideas presented. These digital solutions to real-world challenges will make a tangible difference to the many vital businesses that make up SA’s township economies. Covid-19 has had an unprecedented effect on businesses, and solutions like those offered this weekend by young innovators demonstrate that through partnership and innovation, economic resilience is achievable. We look forward to following the journeys of these bright minds.”
Silicon Cape Director Zimkhita Buwa concluded: “We believe that tech can help change the world we live in and are delighted to have witnessed so many innovative solutions that address the challenges faced by local businesses and communities. We hope that all the teams continue to hone their solutions for the good of SA’s vital township economy.”
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Featured image: Kojo Kwarteng via Unsplash
