In developing nations, particularly in Africa, cell phones are vital, as they are used not just for communication, but also banking, payments, and other essential activities. From 2011 to 2012, cellphone use in this area increased by 44% to 475 million. However, in many places, no electrical grid exists to charge these phones. In fact, 71% of Sub-Saharan Africa’s 800+ hundred million residents are
without grid access. Our product, developed at the University of New Mexico, is an affordable, long-lasting, reusable technology, that, when dipped in sugary water, generates enough electricity to charge a cell phone overnight. The product uses an enzyme based catalyst to generate electricity out of water and sugar. The team plans build a prototype, travel to Africa this summer to test the product and market, and develop a manufacturing strategy to start producing the product! We will use an “Avon” style micro-franchising business model, as this model has proven effective in developing markets. We will offer micro-financing to local entrepreneurs to allow them to purchase our product and resell it in their communities. This model is attractive for several reasons: (1) it creates its own distribution network, (2) it leverages the expertise of local community leaders, and (3) it creates a virtuous economic cycle by empowering and enriching community members. Batterade: Gridless | Affordable | Socially Responsible
