Solution Overview & Team Lead Details

What is the name of your organization?

Voice of Calling NPO

What is the name of your solution?

SARA-Q

Provide a one-line summary of your solution.

SARA-Q: A Tool for Quantitative and Extensive Data Collection in the Assessment of Patients with Rare Disease Ataxia

In what city, town, or region is your solution team headquartered?

Los Angeles, CA, USA

In what country is your solution team headquartered?

  • United States

In which countries do you currently operate?

  • Korea, Rep.
  • Tanzania
  • United States

What specific problem are you solving?

Ataxia, characterized by impaired voluntary coordination of muscle movements, affects thousands of individuals in the United States. Globally, the number of Ataxia patients reaches tens of thousands. Approximately 15,000 individuals are estimated to be affected by Friedreich's Ataxia alone. The Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA) is currently documenting patient data from individuals in 65 different countries. Moreover, the UCLA Health Ataxia Center provides care for over 2,500 patients and their families each year, addressing a variety of genetic and non-genetic forms of Ataxia. These statistics highlight the substantial impact of Ataxia and the need for improved diagnostic and monitoring alternatives. Despite its significant impact, Ataxia is classified as a rare disorder, resulting in challenges for research and access to diagnostic tools.

We are examining the significant challenges faced by individuals with Ataxia, particularly in relation to precise diagnosis and continuous monitoring. The Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA) is commonly used to assess the severity of Ataxia, particularly in evaluating motor functions such as gait, stance, and speech. However, SARA displays various limitations such as subjectivity, variability in results among assessors, and the need for healthcare professionals, which pose challenges in ensuring consistent monitoring.

Discrepancies in diagnostic outcomes stem from the subjective aspects inherent in contemporary diagnostic procedures, contributing to fluctuation and lack of dependability. The need for oversight by trained professionals and reliance on subjective measurement techniques present a difficulty in ensuring consistent monitoring.

The internet-based program SARA-Q aims to tackle these issues by providing impartial, measurable assessments. Participants engage in tasks using a touchscreen device, and advanced algorithms analyze their movements to generate scores that reflect the level of Ataxia severity. This reduces subjective bias and ensures consistent and reliable diagnostics.

SARA-Q addresses these concerns by enhancing diagnostic precision, augmenting monitoring capacities, and expanding access, especially in rural and underserved regions. Patients can independently use the application, reducing the need for frequent medical appointments and empowering them to manage their health autonomously.

Furthermore, as a service based on cloud technology, SARA-Q has the capacity to rapidly and effectively gather and analyze significant volumes of patient information. This capability greatly enhances research endeavors, aiding in the advancement of novel therapies and pharmaceuticals for Ataxia. The swift gathering and examination of data play a key role in enhancing our comprehension of the disease, thus enabling advancements in therapeutic strategies.

In conclusion, the SARA-Q tool fulfills a crucial requirement in the Ataxia healthcare sector by providing a flexible, precise, and easily accessible method for diagnosing and monitoring the condition. This innovative strategy elevates the quality of life for patients and fosters advancements in clinical practices worldwide, offering significant benefits for individuals impacted by Ataxia. Moreover, the cloud-based infrastructure of SARA-Q facilitates quick data collection and analysis, thereby assisting in the creation of impactful treatments and medications.

What is your solution?

The main advancement of SARA-Q is its incorporation of sophisticated algorithms and cloud technology. These algorithms guarantee precise and impartial outcomes, with support from a cloud-based infrastructure that facilitates swift data collection, storage, and analysis. These are critical components for managing extensive datasets and fundamental for research focused on creating novel therapies.

SARA-Q is capable of diagnosing Ataxia using various testing methods. The utilization of computers in the testing and diagnostic process ensures reliability and precision in obtaining quantitative data. AtaxiaV1 gathers numerical data through the assessment and analysis of deviations in upper limb motor coordination utilizing online tools. Within a 900 by 600 pixel area on a 1080 by 1920 pixel touchscreen display, participants use touch input to draw a straight line connecting initial and final squares, as the system concurrently captures data. The analysis encompasses the evaluation of unsuccessful attempts, instances of finger movement outside the designated area, interruptions, movements in the opposite direction, time taken to complete the task, and overall deviation area.

This method offers unbiased and measurable data, improving the precision of diagnoses and enabling a uniform assessment of the Ataxia status of individual patients.

SARA-Q improves diagnostic accuracy, increases monitoring capacities, and extends availability, especially in rural and underserved areas. Patients have the ability to utilize the application autonomously, thereby decreasing the frequency of medical appointments and enabling them to independently manage their health. Additionally, this tool aids in research endeavors by facilitating prompt data collection and analysis of patient information.

In conclusion, the SARA-Q tool fulfills a vital requirement in the field of Ataxia healthcare by offering a dependable, accurate, and easily accessible approach for diagnosing and managing the condition. This novel method greatly enhances patient care and contributes to global research endeavors, ultimately improving the quality of life for individuals suffering from Ataxia. Moreover, the cloud-based infrastructure of SARA-Q enables efficient data collection and analysis, supporting the advancement of effective treatments and medications.

User Feedback and Success Stories

SARA-Q has already provided substantial assistance to several patients, and their feedback underscores the solution's effectiveness. For instance, during the beta test conducted at Chungbuk National University Hospital, patients expressed high satisfaction with SARA-Q's accuracy and convenience. Additionally, our team received positive feedback from various medical professionals and university researchers during our presentation at International Congress for Ataxia Research(ICAR) 2022. One doctor noted, "The quantitative data provided by SARA-Q helps us understand the patient's condition more accurately and develop tailored treatment plans." We also heard multiple times that the integration of engineering fields with our medical sector is essential for driving innovation in healthcare.

Who does your solution serve, and in what ways will the solution impact their lives?

The focused demographic for our research project, SARA-Q, comprises individuals who have been diagnosed with Ataxia, a neurological condition impacting muscle coordination. Individuals diagnosed with ataxia, particularly those residing in geographically isolated or medically underserved regions, encounter notable obstacles as a result of the infrequency and intricate nature of their disorder. The diagnosis of Ataxia can often be costly and difficult to access, necessitating the expertise of specialized healthcare providers who may not always be readily accessible.

The need for specialized health care requires many individuals with Ataxia to travel significant distances in order to receive diagnosis and treatment, resulting in substantial expenses. This issue is especially challenging in underdeveloped or rural regions lacking sufficient healthcare facilities. Traditional diagnostic procedures heavily depend on the subjective assessments of healthcare professionals, resulting in inconsistencies and possible diagnostic inaccuracies. Diversity in clinical exposure may lead to varying evaluations, potentially exacerbating patient doubt and anxiety.

It is essential to regularly monitor the progression of Ataxia for effective management. Nevertheless, regular appointments at specialized medical facilities prove to be challenging due to their impracticality and high cost, hindering patients' ability to monitor their condition consistently.

SARA-Q utilizes a web-based application to enhance the accessibility and affordability of the diagnostic process, eliminating the need for direct participation of medical professionals during initial assessments. Patients have the capability to conduct initial assessments in their own homes utilizing their personal devices, which in turn decreases the need for travel expenses and alleviates the financial strain linked with Ataxia management.

SARA-Q utilizes quantifiable metrics to aid in the diagnosis of Ataxia by analyzing computer-generated data to measure its severity. This method reduces human error and subjectivity, resulting in increased accuracy and reliability of diagnoses. Accurate measurements guarantee that patients receive suitable and efficient treatment.

An important characteristic of the SARA-Q system is its capability for patients to autonomously monitor the progression of their disease. Frequent utilization of the application enables patients to conduct assessments that offer prompt feedback on their condition. Regular monitoring supports ongoing treatment modifications and empowers patients to take charge of their health.

Ultimately, SARA-Q effectively meets the requirements of individuals with Ataxia by enhancing the accessibility, affordability, and accuracy of diagnosis and long-term monitoring. SARA-Q aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals affected by Ataxia through empowering patients to manage their condition independently and providing healthcare professionals with precise diagnostic tools.

Which dimension of the Challenge does your solution most closely address?

Improve the rare disease diagnostic journey – reducing the time, cost, resources, and duplicative travel and testing for patients and caregivers.

What is your solution’s stage of development?

Pilot

Please share details about why you selected the stage above.

The project SARA-Q has effectively created and evaluated a prototype web application aimed at improving the diagnosis and treatment of Ataxia.

The SARA-Q procedure requires patients to use a computer touchscreen to record x and y coordinates, enabling a more precise evaluation of motor coordination. This application focuses on two components of upper limb measurement: finger tracking and the finger-to-nose examination. SARA-Q improves the precision and dependability of evaluations utilizing quantitative metrics such as deviation area analysis, reverse movement analysis, discontinuity analysis, test area overshoot analysis, tremor frequency analysis, maximum and average rotational amplitude analysis, and modulation speed analysis. Moreover, the utilization of SARA-Q enables patients to independently complete assessments or with minimal caregiver support, thereby enabling efficient data collection across diverse environments within a limited timeframe.

A beta test administered to 10 brain injury patients at Chungbuk National University Hospital demonstrated the ability of SARA-Q to effectively distinguish between patients who received identical scores on the conventional Sara test. This was achieved by utilizing precise data measured in units of milliseconds and millimeters.

SARA-Q's research has been published in the Korean Institute of Information Scientists and Engineers and the Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine, and was also presented at the International Congress for Ataxia Research (ICAR) 2022.

The central achievement of the SARA-Q project is the successful development of a functional prototype that delivers precise and reliable data. This tool facilitates improved diagnosis and monitoring for individuals with Ataxia, having been utilized by 10 patients to date. This accomplishment represents a notable advancement in assisting patients in comprehending and effectively managing their condition.

What makes your solution innovative?

Remote Accessibility:

SARA-Q employs an online platform that allows patients to conduct assessments conveniently from their residences. This eliminates the necessity for frequent visits to specialized medical facilities, thereby enhancing accessibility for individuals in remote or underserved geographical locations. In contrast to the conventional SARA test that necessitates face-to-face assessments conducted by experts, SARA-Q eliminates geographical limitations and notably improves accessibility.

Objective and Quantifiable Metrics:

SARA-Q utilizes sophisticated algorithms to analyze data collected through computer touchscreens, including x and y coordinates obtained during particular motor tasks. This method offers measurable and objective metrics, ultimately improving the precision and dependability of diagnostic procedures. Conventional Sara assessments heavily depend on the subjective evaluation of healthcare providers, resulting in possible inconsistencies. SARA-Q provides reliable outcomes derived from accurate data, minimizing human mistakes and inconsistencies.

User-Friendly Interface:

The application has been designed with user-friendliness in mind, enabling patients to conduct assessments either independently or with minimal support from caregivers. The user-friendly interface promotes frequent monitoring and enables timely identification of changes in disease status. In contrast to the conventional Sara tool that necessitates the involvement of healthcare personnel, SARA-Q enables patients to independently perform assessments, thereby enhancing the self-management of their condition.

Data Collection and Research Contribution:

SARA-Q, being a cloud-based application, possesses the capability to efficiently collect and analyze large datasets. This ability offers valuable insights into Ataxia, allowing researchers to recognize patterns and create more successful treatments. The conventional Sara method lacks a structured approach to gathering and analyzing data, while SARA-Q addresses this issue, making a notable contribution to research and advancements in treatment.

Patient Empowerment and Engagement:

SARA-Q allows patients to independently monitor their disease progression, providing immediate feedback on their condition. Regular use of the application fosters a sense of control and involvement in their healthcare. Traditional SARA does not offer this level of patient engagement. SARA-Q improves patient treatment adherence and outcomes by providing individuals with the resources necessary to actively manage their health.

Why are you applying to the Prize?

Technical Barriers: The SARA-Q system employs sophisticated algorithms and a cloud-based infrastructure for the diagnosis and monitoring of Ataxia. In order to improve its capabilities, the inclusion of further technical support is necessary. Winning the Amgen Prize would grant us access to technical support networks such as MIT Solve, providing the expertise needed to enhance our algorithms and user experience.

Legal and Regulatory Barriers: Establishing a presence in the medical device market necessitates adherence to strict regulatory standards. The Amgen Prize will offer legal counsel and assistance with regulatory compliance to guarantee that SARA-Q adheres to the regulatory requirements of diverse nations. This support is essential for our successful integration into the global market.

Cultural and Market Barriers: Effective engagement with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds necessitates a comprehensive understanding of their respective cultures and thorough market analysis. The Amgen Prize would foster connectivity with international networks, enabling the acceptance of SARA-Q in various markets. This would aid in comprehending the healthcare structures and cultural requirements of individual regions, thereby facilitating the creation of tailor-made solutions.

Conference Presentation Opportunity: Our goal is to engage in multiple conferences to disseminate the accomplishments and research findings of SARA-Q. Receiving the Amgen Prize would grant us opportunities to participate in significant conferences, showcase our solution, and connect with the international medical community. This increase in exposure would enhance the visibility of SARA-Q, potentially fostering additional collaborations and support.

Local Internet Conditions Investigation: Our research involves conducting field investigations in various countries to directly examine local internet conditions. It is essential to ensure that SARA-Q operates effectively in the varying internet environments across different regions. The Amgen Prize will support these inquiries to guarantee the successful integration of our solution into the global market.

Who is the Team Lead for your solution?

Chuyeon Lee, President of Voice of Calling NPO

How are you and your team well-positioned to deliver this solution?

The team, under the guidance of Chuyeon Lee, is closely associated with the Ataxia community and possesses considerable expertise in this domain. Chuyeon Lee contributed to the advancement of treatment methods for individuals with Ataxia and cerebellar atrophy at the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at Chungbuk National University 25 years ago. In 2018, she was surprised to discover that subjective assessment tools such as SARA and ICARS were still in use when encountering the National Ataxia Foundation (NAF). This discovery underscored the significant deficiency in funding and research focus on Ataxia, a rare illness. Since that time, she, along with members of Voice of Calling NPO, has been committed to the development of more objective and reliable tools for Ataxia assessment.

In November 2022, we attended the International Congress for Ataxia Research (ICAR) to debut AtaxiaV, which is the upper limb test and rehabilitation application for Ataxia patients. At this event, we observed medical professionals, along with patients and their families, striving to research treatments and develop medications for this disease. We found Dr. Nina Schor, the NIH Acting Deputy Director for Intramural Research, to be especially compelling as she emphasized the importance of engineers' active involvement in both her opening and closing remarks. The members of Voice of Calling NPO were inspired to view it as their mission to utilize their computer engineering skills in assisting Ataxia patients.

Voice of Calling NPO, consisting of young computer scientists from various backgrounds, has been consistently engaged in community service for the past seven years. In order to accomplish our objective of bridging the digital divide and promoting computer education for all, we have implemented coding education programs and projects for students and individuals with disabilities in nations such as Tanzania, Kenya, and Malaysia. This diversity enables us to incorporate a range of perspectives and experiences into our solutions. The current research and development of SARA-Q by our fourth group of researchers is focused on constructing a cloud-based platform that offers advantages to both Ataxia patients and researchers. Our ongoing scientific investigations and commitment are focused on hastening the progress and authorization of therapies and drugs for Ataxia.

Through these endeavors, we aim to expedite research, enhance diagnostic and treatment methodologies, and ultimately improve the quality of life for individuals affected by Ataxia.

What type of organization is your solution team?

Nonprofit

More About Your Solution

What are your impact goals for the next year and the next five years, and how will you measure and achieve them?

Goal1: The goal is to establish SARA-Q as a universally adopted tool for the assessment and tracking of Ataxia.

Consistently enhance our technology according to feedback from patients and improve its capabilities through subsequent iterations. Develop and execute a targeted marketing and outreach strategy to enhance awareness and utilization among patients and healthcare professionals. Gather quantifiable data from different assessment categories outlined in the "Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA)," such as gait, stance, sitting, speech, finger-to-nose test, rapid alternating hand movements, finger chase, and heel-shin slide.

Goal2: Partner with hospitals and medical institutions globally to facilitate authentic patient testing and incorporate SARA-Q into established clinical protocols.

Interact with healthcare professionals and institutions to illustrate the advantages of using SARA-Q in enhancing diagnostic precision and patient care. Implement pilot programs and research studies at these institutions to demonstrate the efficacy of the technology and collect critical data. Develop partnerships to assist in gathering thorough data and verifying the tool's efficacy among various populations.

The indicators used to measure progress are listed below.

Monitor the quantity of active users utilizing the SARA-Q application and the frequency at which it is accessed. A gradual rise in these figures will indicate the effective integration and usefulness of the technology among the specified patient demographic.

Several collaborative partnerships have been established with hospitals, indicating the level of acceptance and integration of our technology within the medical community.

Patient case studies using SARA-Q will be conducted to assess the effectiveness and usability of the technology in real-life scenarios. These case studies will offer insights that can enhance the effectiveness of the solution.

Feedback and improvement metrics are utilized to monitor responses from users and healthcare professionals in order to evaluate enhancements in diagnostic accuracy, user satisfaction, and treatment outcomes as key measures of the technology's effectiveness and influence.

Examine the quantity and efficacy of digital collaborations with medical institutions abroad to foster global engagement. These collaborative efforts aim to enhance the global reach of SARA-Q by modifying and expanding its application, thereby promoting innovation through the exchange of knowledge and expertise.

In order to achieve these objectives, we will upgrade our cloud-based infrastructure to enhance data collection and analysis, thus improving diagnostic accuracy. Execute educational programs and marketing tactics to enhance awareness of the benefits of SARA-Q among patients and healthcare professionals. Perform beta testing with targeted user groups to collect prompt feedback and enhance the solution gradually.

Establish partnerships with healthcare institutions and research organizations on a global scale to promote widespread adoption. Carry out regular updates and improvements to algorithms in order to uphold and enhance diagnostic precision. Use the gathered data to support researchers in the development of novel therapies and medications for Ataxia. Study the different internet conditions in various regions to guarantee that SARA-Q operates effectively in a range of environments.

Describe in simple terms how and why you expect your solution to have an impact on the problem.

Activities:

The main tasks include the creation, implementation, and ongoing enhancement of the SARA-Q system, an online platform used for diagnosing and tracking Ataxia. Patients will access the SARA-Q platform via a website and mobile application designed with a user-friendly interface. The system gathers data on patient symptoms and motor functions by conducting a range of tests, such as gait assessment, stance evaluation, sitting observations, speech analysis, finger-to-nose assessments, rapid alternating hand movements examination, finger chase task, and heel-shin sliding test. The data is subsequently analyzed employing sophisticated algorithms and machine learning methodologies to generate precise diagnostic reports.

Initial Results:

Enhanced Accessibility to Diagnostic Tools: Patients will gain direct access to a dependable diagnostic tool, thereby diminishing the necessity for extensive travel to specialized medical facilities. This is especially advantageous for individuals residing in distant or underprivileged regions.

The system will produce thorough diagnostic reports founded on the gathered data, providing a high degree of precision and detail.

Comprehensive Data Collection: The system will collect a substantial amount of patient symptom data and disease progression, which can be utilized for additional research and analysis.

Extended-term Results:

Early and accurate diagnosis will facilitate better identification of Ataxia at an earlier stage, enabling prompt interventions that can decelerate disease progression and enhance the quality of life for patients.

The collection of an extensive dataset will provide valuable resources for researchers, enabling further studies and expediting the progress of treatments and drugs for Ataxia.

Enhanced Awareness and Education: The platform aims to increase knowledge about Ataxia among both the general public and medical professionals, promoting a better-informed and proactive approach to health management.

Educational resources incorporated into the platform will empower patients and caregivers with knowledge regarding the disease and treatments, ultimately improving their capacity to effectively manage the condition.

Supporting Evidence for the Theory of Change:

Research conducted by third parties shows that early diagnosis and intervention can significantly enhance patient outcomes for rare diseases, as indicated by the National Organization for Rare Disorders.

The impact evaluation findings indicate that machine learning and artificial intelligence have shown a notable level of accuracy in medical diagnostics, supported by a variety of peer-reviewed studies published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research.

Data from interviews conducted during the initial beta testing with individuals diagnosed with Ataxia indicated a favorable response and increased confidence in the diagnosis among the participants.

The SARA-Q project intends to change the landscape of diagnosis and treatment for Ataxia by connecting these activities to short-term outputs and long-term outcomes. By consistently collecting and analyzing quantitative data, SARA-Q will enhance the precision of diagnoses and facilitate ongoing research and development endeavors. This comprehensive approach guarantees that the solution will significantly and measurably enhance the well-being of individuals with Ataxia on a global scale.

Which of the following categories best describes your solution?

A new application of an existing innovation or technology

Please select the technologies currently used in your solution, if any:

  • Software and Mobile Applications

Your elevator pitch:

Your Team

How many people work on your solution team?

Cohort 1 - Four members (2018-2019) AtaxiaV

Cohort 2 - One member (2020-2022) AtaxiaV

Cohort 3 - Four members (2022-2023) SARA-Q

Cohort 4 - Two members (2024-) SARA-Q

How long have you been working on your solution?

Since 2018, we have been working on the development of AtaxiaV, a tool specifically designed for the quantitative evaluation and rehabilitation of individuals with Ataxia. Since 2022, our focus has shifted towards enhancing the development of SARA-Q, a tool derived from the SARA test. In conclusion, we have devoted the past six years to conducting research and development, consistently progressing our efforts from 2018 to the present.

Tell us about how you ensure that your team is diverse, minimizes barriers to opportunity for staff, and provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for all team members.

Voice of Calling NPO is an organization established for the democratization of computer science. Focusing on appropriate technology, we conduct projects and support computer education and entrepreneurship in developing countries. Our organization welcomes participation from high school and university students from various backgrounds without any barriers. At the core of all our activities at Voice of Calling NPO is a dedication to serving society.

Every team member is empowered to explore their research and projects without restrictions, enabling them to unleash their creativity and innovation to the fullest. Members have the autonomy to share their ideas, form teams, and participate in research and development activities.

Our leadership team includes individuals from a range of backgrounds, allowing us to incorporate a variety of perspectives and experiences into our solutions. We constantly establish objectives to improve the variety within our team and implement the necessary steps to reach these objectives.

At our company, we make an effort to hire people from a variety of backgrounds and experiences so that they can smoothly integrate into our team. Individuals with a passion for computer science, communication, media, aspiring to pursue a career in healthcare, or possessing strong journalism skills come together in our group. They improve not just the team but also their own skills by engaging in mutual interaction and welcoming various perspectives and ideas.

We work to guarantee that all team members have fair access to opportunities and resources, with a focus on removing obstacles that hinder marginalized groups from participating. We regularly hold workshops to educate team members and do not place any restrictions or limits on their planned activities.

We strive to foster an environment that welcomes, respects, supports, and values all team members. Throughout our projects, we seek guidance from professionals at companies and universities, creating opportunities for collaboration among team members from both developed and developing countries, including the United States, Korea, Tanzania, and Kenya. Furthermore, we guarantee the official recognition of the research and projects carried out by our members by offering them chances to engage in competitions and conferences. This helps to increase their confidence and inspires them to keep up their innovative and dedicated efforts for the benefit of society.

The Calling NPO aims to create a space where team members can freely work on their research and projects while also dedicated to serving the community and society. By consistently promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, we help all team members reach their full potential to create and execute creative solutions that benefit society. 

Your Business Model & Funding

What is your business model?

Key Beneficiaries

  1. Students: High school and university students from diverse backgrounds.

  2. Individuals with Disabilities: Those requiring special education and support.

  3. Communities in Developing Countries: Particularly regions such as Tanzania, Kenya, and Malaysia.

Products and Services

1. Educational Programs

  • Computer Science Courses: Online and offline courses in programming, robotics, and other technology-related fields.

  • Coding Competitions: Events to promote interest and skills in algorithm development, such as the Showdown in Tanzania.

2. Research and Development:

  • Future of Tanzania: A computer programming education initiative for talented students at Tanzania Science High School.

  • Showdown: An algorithm coding competition designed to challenge and inspire elementary, middle, high school, and university students.

  • AtaxiaV: A rehabilitation system in development to provide support and hope for patients battling the rare and incurable disease Ataxia.

  • SARA-Q: A system that conducts the Scale for Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA) test on a cloud system, making it more accurate, quantitative, and able to collect a wider range of data.

  • Voice of Piece: An online platform empowering African artists to showcase and sell their works, ensuring fair compensation for their creativity.

  • Voice of Dream: A coding and robotics camp enriching the lives of children in foster care and low-income families in the United States.

  • Voice of Coding: Computer education both online and in-person to systematically teach computer programming. After securing funding, we install computer labs in schools in developing countries, provide internet and various infrastructure supports, and collaborate with local institutions and businesses.

  • Voice of Books: We create picture books that are easy for children to read and culturally relevant, and send them to developing countries. We are also developing a platform where people who want to read and those who wish to listen can come together to facilitate reading.

3. Entrepreneurship Support

  • Voice of Piece: Selected as one of the Final 4 teams in the ODA Business Support Startup Competition, we will conduct technology verification and business validation in Tanzania from August 27 to September 8.

Delivery Channels

  1. Online Platforms: Websites and mobile applications for courses, diagnostic tools, and entrepreneurship support.

  2. Partnerships with Schools and Universities: Collaborations to integrate our programs into existing educational structures.

  3. Workshops and Competitions: In-person events and competitions to foster engagement and education.

Needs

  1. Access to Quality Education: Many students and communities in developing regions lack access to high-quality computer science education. Our programs provide the necessary skills and knowledge.

  2. Empowerment through Technology: Technology can be a powerful tool for individuals with disabilities and marginalized communities. Our solutions are designed to be inclusive and accessible.

  3. Sustainable Development Support: By focusing on appropriate technology and entrepreneurship, we help communities develop sustainable solutions to improve quality of life and economic opportunities.

Revenue Streams

  1. Donations and Sponsorships: Funding from organizations and individuals who support our mission.

  2. Partnerships: Collaborations with educational institutions and government agencies.

  3. Product Sales: Revenue from platforms like Voice of Peace and diagnostic tools like SARA-Q.

Do you primarily provide products or services directly to individuals, to other organizations, or to the government?

Organizations (B2B)

What is your plan for becoming financially sustainable, and what evidence can you provide that this plan has been successful so far?

Methods for obtaining financial resources.

We diligently pursue funding by submitting grant applications to governmental agencies and nonprofit organizations. For example, we have obtained funding from the ODA project funds to support a startup team that is pertinent to a specific project, providing us with essential financial assistance.

The educational programs in computer science serve as a significant source of revenue for our organization and are accessible in both online and offline formats. These programs primarily concentrate on students and educational institutions.
A request for member donations: Our members provide sporadic financial contributions to support the funding of our initiatives.

We establish partnerships with educational institutions such as Stempia Computer Institute and work together with government entities to integrate our programs into their curricula, resulting in revenue generation.
We secure financial assistance through partnerships with technology companies that share our societal values and goals, which helps further our organizational mission.

Algorithm coding competitions, startup initiatives, and cybersecurity hackathons have been successfully coordinated for Tanzanian high school and university students with the financial backing from our educational initiatives and Stempia Computer Institute.

Our goal is to attain financial stability through the implementation of a range of revenue sources that sufficiently cover our projected expenses. One of our teams has initiated a platform for the sale of African artworks, with the intention to donate regularly to support SARA-Q once it becomes profitable.

Revenue will be generated through donations, grants, product sales, and service contracts to ensure the sustainability of our programs and projects. A Voice of Calling NPO is dedicated to upholding financial sustainability through these strategies while persisting in fulfilling our mission through a variety of financial support.

Solution Team

 
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