Solarshelter

Climate change has resulted in the frequent and severe occurrence of typhoons.

• In the Philippines, an average of 20 typhoons hit the country annually, while globally, 45 out of 85 tropical storms become tropical cyclones, hurricanes, or typhoons.
• Typhoons' intensity and frequency are worsened by climate change, exacerbating their destructive effects.

These typhoons and other natural disasters lead to widespread displacement and destruction.

• In the Philippines, disasters caused 5.7 million internal displacements in 2021, and globally, 23.7 million people were displaced.
• Natural hazards impacted over 14.5 million homes in the United States in 2021, while typhoon Rai destroyed 1.5 million houses in the Philippines in December 2021.

Evacuation centers in the Philippines are overcrowded, leading to unsanitary conditions and increased disease transmission risk.

• Philippine local government units lack adequate evacuation centers that adhere to minimum design standards, despite improved climate science.

Victims face a lengthy and challenging process of rebuilding their homes and lives after a disaster, which may take years.

• Many victims lack emergency funds to aid in the aftermath of typhoons, as Harvard reports that 74% of the 4,368 Filipino households surveyed across the country were unable to invest in disaster preparedness mostly due to a lack of funds (47.5%)

After typhoons, power outages are common.

• Typhoons damage or destroy electrical infrastructure, resulting in electricity outages. In 2021, power interruptions caused by natural calamities cost the Philippines 107.5 million consumer hours, as reported by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS).
• Typhoon Odette left 3.16 million Filipinos without electricity at home, while Typhoon Jolina caused widespread power outages in Eastern Visayas, affecting 286,243 power consumers.

Solarshelter is an eco-friendly, solar-powered tent designed to assist homeless Filipinos during natural disasters. This solution aims to provide a comfortable and practical shelter option, maximizing both sustainability and functionality.

Dimensions & Accommodation

With dimensions of 305cm x 240cm in area and a height of 220cm, Solarshelter offers ample space to accommodate up to 5 people. The design prioritizes comfort and practicality for its occupants.

Sustainable Construction

Solarshelter is constructed using 100% recycled polyester material derived from old pet bottles, aligning with its eco-friendly philosophy. This choice not only reduces waste but also contributes to environmental preservation. The synthetic polyester construction ensures exceptional durability while keeping the tent lightweight and ultra-flexible, enabling it to withstand various conditions and maintain its integrity over time.

Weather-Resistant and Fire-Retardant Design

Solarshelter is 100% waterproof, engineered to be weather-resistant, and offers effective protection against rain and moisture. Additionally, the tent is fire-retardant, minimizing the risk of accidental fires. Its wind-resistant design ensures stability, even in gusty conditions, providing a secure refuge for the occupants.

Solar Compatibility

Solarshelter is designed to be compatible with solar boxes, integrating solar technology into its functionality. Specially designed holes or pockets on the tent's roof securely hold and support the solar boxes. This innovative feature ensures optimal sunlight exposure for efficient energy generation, providing a sustainable and renewable power source for the tent's various functionalities.

"Solar Box"

At the core of Solarshelter is a lightweight "solar box" attached to its roof. This solar box incorporates a mini solar panel that harnesses sunlight and converts it into usable electricity. Its strategic positioning maximizes exposure to sunlight throughout the day.

Components and Portability

Solarshelter's solar box includes a mini solar panel, a 12V rechargeable sealed lead-acid battery, a solar charge controller, and a light source and UV-C disinfection light located inside the tent. Weighing approximately 1 kilogram, Solarshelter is designed to be lightweight and easily transportable, ensuring practicality and convenience for homeless individuals during natural disasters.

Charging System

The captured solar energy is stored in the battery within the solar box, enabling various functionalities. The mini solar panel has an output voltage of 12V and a current of 0.25A, with a maximum capacity of 3W, efficiently converting solar energy into usable electricity. A solar charge controller regulates the flow of electricity from the solar panel to the battery, optimizing charging efficiency and protecting against overcharging or discharging.

Illumination and UV-C Disinfection

The solar box features a light source at the bottom, providing adequate illumination during nighttime and creating a safe and comfortable living space for the occupants. Furthermore, the stored electricity powers a UV-C disinfection light, ensuring cleanliness and hygiene inside the tent. This germicidal UV-C light eliminates harmful bacteria and viruses, promoting a healthier environment for those seeking shelter.

Power Ports for Essential Devices

Equipped with six power ports, Solarshelter allows for simultaneous charging of essential devices commonly used during disasters. Occupants can charge mobile phones, rice cookers, electric fans, pocket Wi-Fi, and more, enabling connectivity, food preparation, and comfort during challenging times.

Who does Solarshelter serve?

Solarshelter is a solution aimed at serving homeless families in the Philippines who have been affected by typhoons, lacking the financial means to rebuild their homes.

Target Population and Vulnerabilities:

• The majority of Solarshelter's target population is concentrated in areas such as Eastern Visayas, Bicol, Calabarzon, and Central Luzon. 
• These regions face inadequate evacuation centers and poor disaster response from local governments. 
• Homeless families in these areas are particularly vulnerable to extreme weather conditions, facing health issues such as heat exhaustion, dehydration, and hypothermia due to exposure to the elements.
• Additionally, they often lack access to electricity during typhoons and have insufficient infrastructure in their communities.

Ways Solarshelter Impacts Lives:

1. Improved Living Conditions: 
   1. Solarshelter provides homeless families with a more comfortable and safer living space compared to sleeping on the streets or in overcrowded evacuation centers. 
   2. It offers increased safety and protection from the elements and potential risks.
2. Environmental Impact and Sustainability: 
   1. The (1) materials used for the tent's construction and the (2) integration of solar power in the tents makes Solarshelter environmentally friendly and sustainable. 
   2. This focus on sustainability is crucial for the long-term recovery and resilience of the affected communities.
3. Cost Savings and Economic Benefits: 
   1. The utilization of solar power reduces the cost of electricity, which is a significant expense for people living in poverty. 
   2. The durability of Solarshelter tents also minimizes the need for frequent replacements, resulting in long-term cost savings.
4. Mobility and Portability: 
   1. Solarshelter's lightweight and portable design allows for easy movement to safer locations, providing flexibility during times of natural disasters. 
   2. This feature enables quick relocation, ensuring the safety of homeless families.
5. Protection from Viruses: 
   1. To address health concerns during a pandemic, Solarshelter incorporates UV-C disinfection lights. 
   2. These lights offer protection against airborne viruses and other diseases, providing an additional layer of safety for the occupants.
6. Access to Electricity: 
   1. Solarshelter includes mini-solar panels that provide electricity for lighting, charging electronic devices, and fulfilling other basic needs.
   2. This access to electricity improves communication, enhances safety, and supports daily activities.

Introducing Our Team and Personal Connections

Our team, led by a seasoned professional, possesses members who are intimately connected with the target communities. Our Team Lead, Aldrich Alvarez, experienced firsthand the devastating impact of STS Paeng on his grandfather's house in Aklan (his province) on October 29, 2022. 

This event sparked Alvarez's determination to create a solution to address the issues of poverty and displacement caused by natural disasters. Being a resident of a disadvantaged area and a government scholar, Alvarez deeply understands the needs and challenges faced by community members in similar situations. He has witnessed the struggles of homeless and displaced individuals in the aftermath of typhoons, fueling his commitment to finding sustainable solutions that can make a genuine difference.

Diverse Backgrounds and Shared Challenges

Our team comprises individuals from diverse backgrounds, reflecting the cultural diversity of the communities we work with. One such team member is James Bermudo, who experienced displacement and the struggle to access basic amenities in his hometown, Hindang, Leyte. 

Bermudo's personal background and passion for using technology to develop sustainable solutions for social problems make him an invaluable member of our team. He strongly believes in the power of Hypershelter to help people in times of crisis and is confident in our team's ability to create a significant impact on the world.

According to him:

"As a student in a Catholic school, I have developed a sense of service and the drive to help others in need. I am passionate about using technology to develop sustainable solutions for social problems. With Hypershelter, I want to create a product that helps people in times of crisis, and I am sure that our team can make a huge impact on the world."

Understanding Community Needs

To ensure our solution aligns with the needs of the target population, we have established strong relationships with community leaders and local organizations such as Dashboard Philippines, Habitat for Humanity Philippines, Red Cross Youth, and Villgro Philippines. These partnerships provide us with valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by the community. Through open lines of communication, discussions, and meetings, we stay connected and informed about their needs.

Engagement and Collaboration with the Community

Our commitment to engaging the community is at the core of our solution design and implementation process. We firmly believe that the communities we serve should have an active role in shaping the solutions that directly affect them. To capture diverse perspectives and voices within the community, we have conducted surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions with typhoon victims in Hindang, Leyte and Kalibo, Aklan. Additionally, we involve community members in the field testing and feedback collection processes. This inclusive approach allows us to continuously refine our solution based on real-time feedback and insights from those who will directly benefit from it.

Our solution is a Prototype rather than a Concept because we have progressed beyond the initial idea stage and have actively started building our product. 

At this stage, we have moved beyond conceptualization and have taken concrete steps to develop our solution. We have invested time, effort, and resources into creating a working prototype in our school's robotics lab (CNSTHS's Robotics Lab) that showcases the core functionalities and features of our product or service. This prototype serves as a proof of concept, allowing us to validate our assumptions, gather feedback, and make necessary refinements.

Although our prototype may not be fully functional or serving a large user base yet, we have actively started testing it our own and with a few test users, advisors and mentors.

None so far.

We are applying to Solve because we believe in the power of collaboration and the potential of our solution to make a meaningful impact on the lives of homeless families in typhoon-affected areas of the Philippines. While funding is an important aspect, our primary motivation for applying to Solve goes beyond financial support.

Specific barriers we hope Solve can help us overcome:

1. Technical Expertise: We recognize the value of tapping into Solve's network of experts and innovators who can provide technical guidance and insights to enhance our solution. We hope to leverage Solve's resources and expertise to refine our design, improve functionality, and optimize the use of renewable energy in our solar-powered tents.

2. Scaling and Implementation: Scaling up our solution to reach a larger number of homeless families requires strategic partnerships, distribution networks, and localized knowledge. Solve's community of cross-sector social impact leaders and the personalized support from Solve staff can connect us with potential partners, local organizations, and government agencies to facilitate the efficient distribution and installation of Solarshelter tents.

3. Validation and Impact Assessment: Solve's rigorous selection process and access to a diverse community of impact-oriented individuals and organizations can provide valuable feedback and validation for our solution. We hope to receive guidance on impact assessment methodologies, monitoring and evaluation techniques, and best practices in order to measure the effectiveness and long-term outcomes of our solution accurately.

4. Policy and Advocacy Support: By joining Solve's network, we anticipate opportunities to engage with policymakers, influencers, and stakeholders who can support our advocacy efforts for sustainable disaster response and housing strategies. Solve's platform can provide a valuable platform to raise awareness about the challenges faced by homeless families and to advocate for policies that prioritize their well-being and resilience.

5. Access to Funding and Resources: While Solve offers a $10,000 grant, we recognize that being a Solver is about more than just funding. We hope to leverage Solve's connections and influence to access additional funding opportunities from other sources, including philanthropic organizations, impact investors, and corporate sponsors. Moreover, Solve's network can provide access to non-monetary resources such as mentorship, capacity-building programs, and strategic guidance to support our growth and sustainability.

Solarshelter is innovative in several ways, as it approaches the problem of providing temporary shelter to homeless families affected by typhoons in a new and significantly improved way. Here's what makes it innovative:

1. Integration of Solar Power: Solarshelter combines the traditional concept of temporary shelter with the integration of solar power. By incorporating solar panels into the tent design, it provides a sustainable and self-sufficient source of electricity for lighting and charging electronic devices. This innovative approach addresses the common problem of lack of power in traditional temporary shelters, offering a practical and eco-friendly solution.

2. Environmental Impact and Sustainability: The use of solar power in Solarshelter reduces reliance on non-renewable energy sources, such as generators or kerosene lamps. This not only lowers carbon emissions but also promotes environmental sustainability. By showcasing the benefits of renewable energy in disaster relief efforts, Solarshelter can inspire others in the space to adopt similar approaches and contribute to a broader positive impact on the environment.

3. Improved Living Conditions: Solarshelter provides a more comfortable and safer living space compared to sleeping on the streets or in overcrowded evacuation centers. The tents offer increased protection from the elements, privacy, and security for homeless families. By prioritizing their well-being and addressing their immediate shelter needs, Solarshelter can catalyze broader positive impacts by setting a higher standard for disaster relief efforts and influencing other organizations to prioritize similar solutions.

4. Cost Savings and Economic Benefits: The utilization of solar power reduces the cost of electricity for homeless families, who often live in poverty and struggle with financial burdens. By offering a low-cost solution that minimizes the need for frequent replacements, Solarshelter can help alleviate financial pressures and contribute to long-term cost savings. This, in turn, can empower families to allocate their resources towards other essential needs, such as education, healthcare, and livelihood development.

5. Market Transformation: Solarshelter has the potential to change the market for disaster relief efforts by introducing a sustainable and scalable solution. Its innovative approach can challenge the status quo of traditional temporary shelters and inspire other organizations, government agencies, and stakeholders to invest in more sustainable and effective solutions. By demonstrating the viability and impact of solar-powered tents, Solarshelter can drive market transformation towards more environmentally conscious and resilient disaster response strategies.

1. Next year's impact goal: By the end of the next year, Solarshelter aims to provide eco-friendly solar-powered tents to at least 500 homeless families in typhoon-affected areas of the Philippines, improving their living conditions and offering them increased safety and protection from the elements.
   1. This will be achieved through partnerships with local organizations, government agencies, and community leaders to identify and reach out to the target population.
2. Next five years' impact goal: Over the next five years, Solarshelter aims to expand its reach and provide eco-friendly solar-powered tents to 10,000 homeless families in typhoon-affected areas of the Philippines.
   1. This ambitious goal will require scaling up production, establishing strategic partnerships with stakeholders, and securing funding to support the initiative's growth. 
   2. By achieving this goal, Solarshelter will contribute to the transformation of the lives of these vulnerable communities, promoting sustainable recovery, resilience, and improved well-being.

Strategies to Achieve the Impact Goals:

1. Collaborations and Partnerships: 
   1. Solarshelter will collaborate with local organizations, NGOs, government agencies, and community leaders to identify target populations, raise awareness about the solution, and ensure effective distribution and installation of the tents. 
   2. These partnerships will facilitate community engagement, local knowledge integration, and sustainable implementation.
2. Scaling up Production and Distribution: 
   1. To reach the target populations, Solarshelter will focus on scaling up production capabilities while maintaining quality standards. 
   2. This will involve streamlining the manufacturing process, optimizing the supply chain, and establishing distribution networks in typhoon-affected areas. 
   3. The aim is to ensure timely delivery and installation of the tents to maximize their impact.
3. Fundraising and Resource Mobilization: 
   1. Solarshelter will actively seek funding from international donors, philanthropic organizations, corporate sponsors, and grants dedicated to disaster relief and sustainable development. 
   2. By securing financial resources, the initiative can support its expansion plans, invest in research and development for improved tent designs, and enhance the overall impact of its efforts.
4. Advocacy and Policy Engagement: 
   1. Solarshelter will advocate for policies and initiatives that prioritize the well-being and resilience of homeless populations in typhoon-prone areas. 
   2. By engaging with policymakers and stakeholders at the local, national, and international levels, Solarshelter aims to create an enabling environment for sustainable solutions, increased funding for disaster response, and the integration of eco-friendly technologies in housing and shelter strategies.
5. Continuous Innovation and Adaptation: 
   1. Solarshelter will invest in ongoing research and development to improve the tent's design, durability, and functionality. 
   2. This includes exploring advancements in solar power technologies, material efficiency, and innovative features that enhance usability and comfort. 
   3. By staying at the forefront of innovation, Solarshelter can provide the best possible solution to address the specific needs and vulnerabilities of homeless families in typhoon-affected areas.

To measure the progress towards Solarshelter's impact goals, several specific indicators will be used:

1. Number of Families Served: This indicator will track the number of homeless families in typhoon-affected areas of the Philippines who have received Solarshelter tents. By monitoring the number of families served, Solarshelter can assess its reach and progress towards the annual and five-year impact goals.

2. Improved Living Conditions: Solarshelter will conduct surveys and interviews with beneficiaries to evaluate the improvement in their living conditions after receiving the tents. This assessment will consider factors such as safety, protection from the elements, privacy, and overall well-being.

3. Access to Electricity: Solarshelter will track the number of families who have access to electricity through the mini-solar panels integrated into the tents. Monitoring the usage of electricity for lighting, charging electronic devices, and fulfilling basic needs will provide insights into the impact on communication, safety, and daily activities.

4. Cost Savings: Solarshelter will collect data on the cost savings experienced by families through reduced electricity expenses. By comparing their previous expenditures on alternative energy sources (e.g., kerosene, batteries) with the use of solar power, the financial impact of Solarshelter can be measured.

5. Environmental Impact: Solarshelter will measure the reduction in carbon emissions resulting from the use of renewable solar energy instead of conventional energy sources. This assessment will contribute to understanding the environmental benefits and sustainability of the solution.

6. Community Engagement and Partnerships: Solarshelter will evaluate the level of engagement and collaboration with local organizations, government agencies, and community leaders. Assessing the strength and effectiveness of these partnerships will provide insights into the solution's scalability, sustainability, and long-term impact.

7. Feedback and User Satisfaction: Solarshelter will collect feedback from beneficiaries to assess their satisfaction with the tents' design, functionality, and overall impact on their lives. This feedback will guide improvements and inform ongoing solution development.

8. Policy Changes and Advocacy: Solarshelter will monitor and track any policy changes, funding allocations, or initiatives resulting from its advocacy efforts. This indicator will demonstrate the impact of Solarshelter's engagement with policymakers and the integration of eco-friendly technologies in disaster response and housing strategies.

Solarshelter's theory of change is based on the belief that providing eco-friendly solar-powered tents to homeless families in typhoon-affected areas of the Philippines will lead to improved living conditions, increased resilience, and long-term positive outcomes. The theory of change is grounded in the following logical framework:

1. Activity: Distribution of Solarshelter Tents

   • Solarshelter will distribute eco-friendly solar-powered tents to homeless families in typhoon-affected areas.

2. Output: Provision of Safe and Sustainable Shelter

   • Homeless families will have access to safe, durable, and weather-resistant shelter that offers protection from the elements.
   • The tents will be equipped with solar panels, providing a sustainable source of electricity for lighting and charging essential devices.

3. Outcome 1: Improved Living Conditions

   • Homeless families will experience improved living conditions compared to sleeping on the streets or overcrowded evacuation centers.
   • The tents will offer privacy, security, and a comfortable living space, contributing to enhanced well-being and a sense of dignity.

4. Outcome 2: Increased Resilience and Safety

   • The solar-powered tents will provide families with a reliable source of electricity, enabling communication, lighting, and access to essential services during typhoons and their aftermath.
   • The tents' weather-resistant and fire-retardant design will enhance safety and protection from extreme weather conditions, reducing the risk of health issues and accidents.

5. Outcome 3: Sustainable Recovery and Long-term Benefits

   • Solarshelter's use of eco-friendly materials and solar power will contribute to environmental preservation and a reduction in carbon emissions.
   • The cost savings from using solar energy instead of conventional sources will alleviate financial burdens for families and promote economic stability.
   • The integration of UV-C disinfection lights will improve hygiene and reduce the spread of diseases, creating a healthier living environment.

Evidence to Support the Theory of Change:

• Third-party research on the impact of sustainable housing solutions on vulnerable populations, demonstrating improved well-being and resilience.
• Findings from interviews and surveys with beneficiaries, highlighting the positive outcomes and benefits experienced after receiving Solarshelter tents.
• Data on the reduction of carbon emissions and cost savings achieved through the use of solar energy.
• Success stories and testimonials from families who have been positively impacted by Solarshelter.

Through the logical framework of its theory of change and the evidence supporting it, Solarshelter expects to create a significant impact on the lives of homeless families in typhoon-affected areas, providing them with improved living conditions, increased resilience, and long-term benefits for their well-being and future.

Core Technology: Solar Box System

Solarshelter is a sustainable solution that utilizes an innovative solar box system as its core technology. The solar box system captures sunlight and converts it into usable electricity, which is stored in a 12V rechargeable sealed lead-acid battery. In this section, we will discuss the various features of the solar box system that make it an efficient and practical technology.

Efficient Charging with Solar Charge Controller

The solar charge controller regulates the flow of electricity from the solar panel to the battery, ensuring optimal charging efficiency and protection against overcharging or discharging. This feature is crucial for maintaining the system's longevity and ensuring reliable power generation.

UV-C Disinfection Light and Power Ports

The solar box also incorporates a UV-C disinfection light and a light source inside the tent, powered by the stored electricity. The UV-C light eliminates harmful bacteria and viruses, providing a healthier environment for those seeking shelter. 

Additionally, the six power ports allow occupants to charge essential devices such as mobile phones, rice cookers, electric fans, and pocket Wi-Fi, promoting connectivity, food preparation, and comfort during challenging times.

Durable and Resilient Construction

The Solarshelter's sustainable construction utilizes 100% recycled polyester material, ensuring exceptional durability while keeping the tent lightweight and ultra-flexible. Its weather-resistant and fire-retardant design offers effective protection against rain and moisture, minimizing the risk of accidental fires. The wind-resistant design ensures stability, even in gusty conditions, providing a secure refuge for the occupants.

Compatibility with Solar Boxes

Moreover, the tent is designed to be compatible with solar boxes, integrating solar technology into its functionality. Specially designed holes or pockets on the tent's roof securely hold and support the solar boxes, ensuring optimal sunlight exposure for efficient energy generation. This design feature makes Solarshelter a practical and sustainable solution for assisting homeless Filipinos during natural disasters.

At Hypersheter, we recognize the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusivity in our work. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that respects and values the contributions of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Here are the key aspects of our approach to incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusivity into our work:

1. Diverse Leadership Team: Our leadership team is comprised of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including different genders, ethnicities, and professional experiences. We believe that diverse perspectives at the decision-making level strengthen our ability to address the complex challenges we aim to solve.

2. Commitment to Equity and Fairness: We prioritize equity and fairness in all aspects of our work, from the design and distribution of Solarshelter tents to the engagement of local communities. We strive to ensure that our solutions and services are accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status, ethnicity, gender, or other characteristics.

3. Inclusive Community Engagement: We actively engage with the target communities and stakeholders to understand their unique needs and perspectives. We value their input and involve them in the co-creation and implementation of our solutions. By actively listening to diverse voices, we aim to create solutions that are inclusive and responsive to the specific challenges faced by different communities.

4. Partnerships with Diverse Organizations: We seek partnerships with diverse organizations, including local NGOs, community-based groups, and other stakeholders, to ensure that our work benefits from a range of perspectives and experiences. Collaborating with organizations that have a deep understanding of the local context helps us tailor our solutions to the specific needs of the communities we serve.

5. Continuous Learning and Improvement: We continuously educate ourselves and our team on issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusivity. We prioritize ongoing learning and seek out resources, workshops, and training opportunities to deepen our understanding and improve our practices. We are open to feedback and actively seek input from team members, beneficiaries, and stakeholders to refine our approach and ensure that we are continuously progressing towards our goals.

Our team's goals for becoming more diverse, equitable, and inclusive are centered around creating an environment that celebrates diversity, respects individual experiences, and provides equal opportunities for growth and contribution. We are actively working towards expanding our team to include individuals from underrepresented groups, fostering an inclusive culture, and addressing biases in our decision-making processes.

By incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusivity into our work, we aim to create solutions that are responsive to the unique needs of diverse communities. We believe that by embracing and valuing diversity, we can achieve greater impact, build stronger partnerships, and contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society.

Target Customers:

We have identified key government entities, nonprofit organizations, corporate foundations, and international organizations such as the 

• Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, 
• United Nations (UN), and 
• UNICEF 

as our target customers. 

These organizations are seeking cost-effective solutions to provide temporary shelter for victims of calamities and disasters, including typhoon victims and other displaced individuals.

Value Proposition:

We strongly believe that our Solarshelter tents are the ideal solution for our target customers. These tents offer affordability, reliability, and ease of installation and maintenance. With a manufacturing cost of only $62.41/unit, our Solarshelter tents provide a cost-effective option for our customers

Rental Packages:

To further enhance affordability, we offer flexible rental packages. Customers can rent ten (10) Solarshelter units for just $51.98/mo. This allows our customers to save money on their budgets by choosing short or long rental durations based on their specific needs.

Economic Advantage:

Our economically sound solution not only provides cost savings to our customers but also helps them allocate their resources more effectively. By renting our Solarshelter tents, organizations can reduce the financial burden of purchasing and maintaining shelters, allowing them to allocate funds to other critical relief efforts.

Support for Disaster Recovery:

By providing displaced families with safe and secure shelter, as well as access to light and power, Solarshelter contributes to efficient and effective disaster recovery. Our solution minimizes the time and money required for post-disaster rebuilding efforts, enabling affected communities to recover more swiftly and with reduced strain on their resources.

1. Service Contracts with Local Government Units

To establish a steady and reliable income stream, we will target local government units (LGUs) in the Philippines who have allocated government funds for disaster relief efforts. By offering our SolarShelters for rent under service contracts with these LGUs, we can generate consistent revenue while extending our reach to a larger number of typhoon victims. Building strong relationships with the LGUs, understanding their specific needs, and tailoring our services accordingly will be key to securing long-term contracts and fostering enduring partnerships.

2. Sustained Donations and Grants

In order to sustain our operations and initiatives, we will actively seek sustained donations and grants from individuals, foundations, and organizations that share our vision and mission of providing sustainable shelter solutions to disaster-affected communities. By engaging with potential donors and grantors who align with our cause, we can ensure a continuous flow of funds. Our fundraising strategies and communication efforts will be aimed at reaching out to these stakeholders and building lasting relationships based on mutual values.

3. Raising Investment Capital

To scale our operations and expand our impact, we will focus on raising investment capital from impact investors who are committed to our social and environmental objectives. These investors will play a vital role in supporting our long-term growth and enabling us to reach more communities in need. We will prioritize investors who not only provide financial support but also demonstrate a genuine dedication to our cause. Patient capital will be crucial in driving our sustainable growth and helping us achieve our mission effectively. 

Funder: Young Founders Summit 1st Runner-Up Cash Grant (by Smarter Me
Monetary Amount: $1500 USD

Funder: Edison Awards (Silver Award, Young Edison Challenge)
Monetary Amount: $1500 USD