City Digest took a look at some of the projects competing in this year’s JKUAT Tech Expo and caught up with some of the student entrepreneurs currently deep in founder mode as they prepare for November. Read about this and more below.
The Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology’s Tech Expo Committee is in the advanced stages of preparing participants for the 14th edition of the university’s annual technology and innovation competition. The Expo, which typically sees student participants showcase various innovative projects, runs for a 5-month period culminating in a two-day exhibition event, usually held at the end.
What is Founder Mode?
The fundamental blocks of Founder Mode are still undefined at this point. The conversation, however, started with Paul Graham and Brian Chesky. There have been several interesting, far-reaching, exclusionary, and outright hilarious interpretations of the essay that started this discussion.
Paul Graham (PG) is a co-founder of Y Combinator (YC), an accelerator that also supports startups with seed capital. PG also famously co-founded Viaweb, which was rebranded to Yahoo Store following its acquisition by Yahoo. He is a computer scientist and writes essays that are very popular in the tech and startup space.
Brian Chesky is the current CEO and co-founder of Airbnb.
The Founder Mode Essay
In his September 2024 essay titled “Founder Mode,” PG criticizes the traditional understanding related to scaling and managing successful companies. The concept and essay are based on views gathered from Brian Chesky and some of his fellow YC founders at a YC event. Wherein discussions centered around the pitfalls of professional management advice when building startups and companies. Majority of founders at the event agreed that the traditional models are, to a great extent, mistaken. Especially as related to managing and scaling startups.
PG writes that, in Founder Mode, for example, the CEO of a company would not necessarily need to rely solely on their direct reports when figuring out issues and systems, as skip-level engagement is normalized. He contrasts this with the conventional Manager Mode, where he points out that managers typically cannot do certain things in the way the founder of the company would, due to the bureaucratic systems that are usually entrenched in professional management.
The essay advocates for the exploration and establishment of a new knowledge base on the concept of Founder Mode. Ideally, encouraging and allowing founders of startups to build and manage their companies more practically, without the limitations of bureaucratic models and systems that have proven ineffective.
JKUAT Tech Expo 14.0
Some of the innovation projects participating in the JKUAT Tech Expo 14.0 (Photos Courtesy of Victor Osiolo – Official Expo Photographer) – comprehensive list below.
Kenyan universities provide an invaluable platform to promote and support entrepreneurship and development of startups through science and technology. The 14th edition of the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology’s Tech Expo (2024) recorded 69 project entries.
The first pitching sessions, aimed at allowing the founders to introduce their projects to the Expo committee and receive initial feedback, was held on June 18th, and 19th, 2024. Herein, the panelists, led by Expo Chairman Mr. Michael Waititu, examined the specific problems the projects aimed to solve, the solutions they offered, and what set these projects and innovations apart from what was already in the industry.
After the first pitching, all 69 projects were granted automatic qualification to participate in a second pitching, which took place on Tuesday, September 24th, and Wednesday, September 25th, 2024. Herein, the committee, alongside further critically examining the project ideas, also assessed working prototypes and minimum viable products for projects that will be shortlisted to proceed to the third pitching session.
Miss Rukiah, a member of the committee, assured participants that the competition would not only allow them to incubate their innovations but would also provide exposure to the industry, opportunities for innovation studies, business model and pitching training, intellectual property training, free publicity, and awards for the winning teams and projects.
3rd Pitching Session and Final Exhibition
This is scheduled for October 24th, 2024, and will be the final pitching session, during which the committee will select the projects deemed ready for exhibition and that will proceed to the finals of the competition.
Successful innovators and founders will conduct a pre-exhibition presentation to the DVC of Research, Production, and Extension, the Expo’s Chief Judge, and the Director of Extension on November 13th, 2024, in preparation for the final exhibition event scheduled to take place on November 14th and 15th, 2024.
The winners of the last edition of the competition, JKUAT Tech Expo 13.0 – Aqua Coin, walked away with KES 100,000 in prize money for their innovation project, a prepaid water management system.
The prizes are determined each year by the institution’s budget allocation and program sponsors, and details of this year’s competition are still under wraps.
Perhaps if projects could win up to KES 2.5 million in the competition, we would witness different levels of vibrancy and innovation.
Participants’ Request to Industry and Venture Capital Firms
Industry, leaders, and other well-wishers are requested to support the young entrepreneurs and innovators in every way they can. Moreover;
- Giant corporate organizations like Safaricom, Coca-Cola Kenya, TotalEnergies Kenya, banks, and white-collar firms, among others, are also requested to support the event as sponsors.
- Global, African, and Kenyan venture capitalists and accelerators are also being requested to support the numerous viable projects with seed and angel funding after the competition.
- Individual experts in the various fields related to the projects are requested to reach out through available channels with opportunities, mentorship, and networking support.
- Philanthropists who can help establish and donate up to USD $1,000,000.00 to a JKUAT Innovation Board towards a continuous innovation program will be highly regarded globally.
Projects Participating in the JKUAT Tech Expo 14.0
The following are some of the projects which were selected to participate in the 2024 tech and innovation competition; as organized by Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology.
Part 1
| STARTUP OR PROJECT NAME | DESCRIPTION OR SUMMARY |
| 1. Ngishu AI | AI software to aid dairy farmers in farm data management, image detection, and animal health monitoring. |
| 2. Self Monitoring Analysis and Reporting Technology for a Tomato Greenhouse | A smart management greenhouse system which integrates IoT, AI, and automation technology. For automating irrigation and environmental control, with a user-friendly mobile app. |
| 3. Switched Reluctance Motor | SR Motor prototype with superior efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. Presents a promising technology applicable across industrial and automotive sectors. |
| 4. AfyaBora | A food scanning app which analyzes nutrient content towards healthy consumption. Incorporates an AI assistant for personalized guidance. |
| 5. Casavenida |RESE | A Real Estate Search Engine (RESE) that connects buyers and buyer agents to verifiable direct sellers (and seller agents) of real estate. Available around the globe at a single listing price of $16 only. |
| 6. Quantitative Finance | Quantitative models generator for easy understanding of financial markets. |
| 7. pet(Personal Expenses Tracker) | A desktop program that enables one to record, view, update and analyze their expenses. Developed by Emmanuel Limisi for Windows, Linux and MacOS. |
| 8. AgriX CubeSat | A bench model 1U Nanosatellite for agricultural monitoring in Kenya. Developed by Miss Nyakanga. |
| 9. Vehicle Overweight Alert System | An app to facilitate fleet management and reduce maintenance costs by leveraging vehicle load and cost calculations. |
| 10. DIA-CARE | An AI-powered diabetes management app that offers real-time monitoring, personalized recommendations, and health analytics. |
Courtesy and credits to the Committee for providing the information.
Part 2
| STARTUP OR PROJECT NAME | DESCRIPTION OR SUMMARY |
| 11. Baby Care | An IoT system to assist disabled mothers in child monitoring. |
| 12. FloodSense – Smart Flood Management | Flood monitoring system that predicts and alerts incase of potential flooding events. Aims to aid in proactive disaster management. |
| 13. AfriCare | System that offers health services via web and USSD platforms, addressing healthcare challenges in Africa. |
| 14. Smart Garbage Sorting System | Bin management system that segregates garbage automatically to aid in recycling by preventing recyclable trash from ending up in landfills. |
| 15. Improved Student App | A mobile application for JKUAT students to address the current system’s lacking features. Tools like timetables and assignments to be accessible on students’ mobile devices. |
| 16. SatLift | High-altitude balloons deployed satellites, offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to rocket launches. |
| 17. Hydrovault | A modular system that stores solar energies as liquid hydrogen for various applications. |
| 18. Light Fidelity (LIFI) | Li-Fi technology. Developing high-speed wireless connectivity through LED light bulbs. |
| 19. Load Input Monitoring & Alert System | A Lidt system to monitor plastic material levels in injection molding machines, optimizing production. |
| 20. SmartSync | Smart home control system with wireless power transmission and app-based control of appliances, security, and electricity. |
| 21. Glamify | A shoe marketplace that connects buyers and sellers directly. |
| 22. VA Bot | Virtual assistant to automate some tasks for users on their PCs. |
Part 3
| STARTUP OR PROJECT NAME | DESCRIPTION OR SUMMARY |
| 23. Usitupe Taka Ovyo | Waste management system for the basic levels of the society. |
| 24. Hydrosense | IoT based system that monitors rainfall and water levels in rivers, dams, streams, soils to aid in flood mitigation and management. |
| 25. Remote Food Monitoring System | An IoT system that monitors banana storage parameters to reduce postharvest losses. |
| 26. The Rheohealthific | A health and wellness system. |
| 27. The Ombetu’s Sphere | Building a system that increases the efficiency of solar cells from current 26% to maximum output capacities. |
| 28. Shoplifting Detection System | A shoplifting detection system that notifies staff with video evidence. |
| 29. Home Automation IoT | Home automation system for android devices and home electrical hardware. |
| 30. MoreNet | A system that aims to make Wi-Fi accessible by allowing users to recharge it like a phone battery, enabling continuous browsing even during disconnects and outages. |
| 31. TAKABIN | Rubbish collection app that allows users to schedule pickups, locate disposal centres, receive notifications, and earn rewards for eco-friendly practices. Seeks to promote environmental sustainability. |
| 32. Face Detection and Recognition System | For main entry points into buildings and other premises. |
| 33. Smart Hydroponics System with IoT integration | Smart hydroponics system with IoT sensors for monitoring and controlling environmental parameters. Managed via mobile app to optimize growing conditions and automate tasks remotely. |
| 34. Smart Object Recognition and Tracking System (SORTS) | Employs optical character recognition and machine learning to capture, track, and manage information from various objects in real-time. Seeks to enhance efficiency and security in multiple industries. |
| 35. AllGenes | A genetics testing project for Africans. |
Part 4
| STARTUP OR PROJECT NAME | DESCRIPTION OR SUMMARY |
| 36. Auto_checkout | AI-powered smart checkout system that automates retail store checkout processes using computer vision technology. Identifies items and generates instant digital receipts, eliminating long queues and manual scanning. |
| 37. Reconfigure Grid Mold | A CNC-operated reconfigurable mold that uses a pin matrix to create 3D impressions from CAD designs. Aimed at reducing costs for producing molds of large soft-metal and fiberglass panels in low-production runs. |
| 38. AFYA MAMA | User-friendly mobile app app for expectant mothers to access medical records, get real-time updates. Upload images, and receive appointment reminders, with a secure interface for doctors to manage patient records. |
| 39. Innovative Waste Management Through Generation of Fertilizer and Gases | System for converting human waste into fertilizer and gases for climate-smart agriculture. |
| 40. Blockchain Automation of Accounting Enterprise Resource Planning System | Blockchain system to facilitate information transfer between and within ERP systems. Ensures secure, tamper-proof, transparent, and paperless transactions. Reduces work and automates processes. |
| 41. Smart Solar Drier | System for efficiently drying agricultural produce. |
| 42. E-Bike Smart Charger | Uses AI technology to optimize electric motorbike battery performance and lifespan. Also supports sustainable transportation with smart solar technology. |
| 43. Dawnmechs Africa | Mobile app for roadside assistance which connects motorists with towing services. Also offers related businesses custom advertising opportunities. |
| 44. RentHouseKenya | A platform for finding housing in urban areas in Kenya. Also provides relocation solutions. |
| 45. SEMA | A platform that facilitates translation and transcription services for over 700 languages. Seeking to enhance global access to internet resources in education and research. |
| 46. Sound Control Light | To be used to signal people with hearing impairment in athletic events. |
Part 5
| STARTUP OR PROJECT NAME | DESCRIPTION OR SUMMARY |
| 47. Leaf Extracts as an Anti-Anemic Agent | Project exploring the potential use of Hibiscus Acetosella in pre-clinical evaluation of anemia. Also exploring the plant’s nutritional content and phytochemical compounds. |
| 48. Rock Paper | Project repurposes waste paper as a substitute raw material for construction and manufacturing. |
| 49. School Monitoring System | IoT based monitoring system for movement of children and students in schools and air quality. |
| 50. Spatial Planning Project | Proposal by Landscape Architecture students for the sustainable urban planning of Eldoret Town (Pilot City). |
| 51. Value Addition Management System | Project looking to enhance products like bananas, yoghurt, potatoes, and coffee to improve profitability for businesses locally. |
| 52. AI-Powered Telemedicine for Remote Healthcare | Aiming to bridge healthcare gap in underserved communities. An AI-based telemedicine system that enhances healthcare access and efficiency in underprivileged areas. |
| 53. Sustainable Water Collection Project for Community Development | A sustainable water collection system that aims to provide clean water to households in semi-arid regions, emphasizing community empowerment and environmental sustainability. |
| 54. GridSense | GridSense utilizes smart meters for real-time power monitoring and outage management, aiding decision-making and swift response. |
| 55. E-Tech Smart Plant | The e-tech smart plant utilizes advanced AI-powered robots to efficiently assemble and repair electric vehicles. Convert internal combustion vehicles to electric, and maximize production with minimal human intervention. |
| 56. E-Tech Cleaning Robot | Uses AI and Machine Learning to autonomously clean apartments, schools, and offices anytime. Detects dirty areas via CCTV and optimizes its cleaning path providing on demand and efficient cleaning, including of doors and windows. |
Part 6
| STARTUP OR PROJECT NAME | DESCRIPTION OR SUMMARY |
| 57. Automatic Braking System | A system that prevents vehicle collisions through aided automatic braking. |
| 58. GREENSCHAIN | A crowd-farming platform to enable investment in avocado farming and profit farmers. |
| 59. The DOCTA | DOCTA provides medical diagnostics in underserved areas using sensors and AI. |
| 60. Road Flooding Detection System | Building an AI system to detect the flood levels on roads. |
| 61. Vin Cap Conditioner | A cap designed to provide a conducive environment for any individual in any surrounding. |
| 62. AgroCare | Platform facilitating farmers’ access to top-tier inputs and skilled labor. Also aims to boost agricultural productivity through a streamlined marketplace and access to experts. |
| 63. Baini | System utilizing AI to enhance data retrieval from educational and research materials. Provides relevant passages in context to enable users find insights without exhaustive reading. |
| 64. SwahiliPro Language | Project that enables Swahili-speaking programmers to write and execute code in Swahili. Offers a Python compiler package and Visual Studio Code support for syntax highlighting, IntelliSense, and icon representation. |
| 65. Campus Glide | Campus Glide is looking to offer portable electric scooters stationed around university campuses in Kenya. Will allow students to quickly and sustainably commute between classes using M-Pesa payments for activation. |
Innovators and the Committee
Some of the innovators and committee members participating in the JKUAT Tech Expo 14.0 (Photos Courtesy of Victor Osiolo – Official Expo Photographer)
How can we further support the Startup Culture and build Founder Mode in our universities?
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