In this episode of the Startup Leap, Yvonne and Maria sit down with Timbo, the founder of OkHi, a startup rethinking smart addressing for emerging markets.
Despite 90% of the world being covered by Google Maps, four billion people lack a formal addressing system.
Timbo details his journey from working at Google to experiencing firsthand the massive addressing issues in Africa, which led him to launch OkHi. He discusses the challenges of starting a business in a new market, the importance of understanding and validating the problem, and the crucial pivot OkHi made during COVID-19 to target financial services in Nigeria.
Timbo also shares insights on building a strong team, defining company culture, and conveying a compelling vision to investors. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about tackling a global problem and the relentless drive to make a meaningful impact.
00:00 Introduction to the Addressing Problem
00:33 Guest Introduction: Timbo's Mission
01:10 The Birth of OkHi
01:36 Timbo's Journey and Early Challenges
04:29 Validating the Problem and Building the Team
06:55 Early Prototyping and Market Insights
08:47 Navigating Tech Infrastructure and Challenges
11:05 Naming OkHi and Securing the Domain
14:21 Securing Initial Funding and Investor Relations
20:02 Product Development and Market Adaptation
25:02 Balancing Technical Focus and Customer Needs
26:18 Transitioning Business Models: From Consumer to Financial Services
27:59 Building Strong Customer Relationships
29:31 Navigating Investor Relations and Market Creation
30:46 The Power of Storytelling in Business
32:46 Overcoming Challenges and Pivots
35:55 Regulatory Hurdles and Market Validation
38:09 Cultivating Company Culture and Values
46:22 Key Learnings and Reflections
49:16 Future Aspirations and Closing Thoughts
🎧 Don’t miss this important conversation perfect for big tech operators looking to learn from Timbo’s journey.
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