Three tech entrepreneurs from Nigeria’s startup ecosystem shift their focus from logistics to revolutionizing small business operations. The founders of Flashbike, initially a last-mile delivery service, channeled their expertise into creating 1Vault, a comprehensive digital platform serving Nigeria’s vast MSME sector.
The platform comes at a crucial time for the Nigerian economy, where micro, small and medium enterprises contribute 40% of GDP and provide 80% of employment opportunities. These companies, despite their economic importance, face significant operational challenges, from complex registration processes to limited access to financial services.
Segun Adebirigbe, along with co-founders Babajide Padonu and Kola Roberts, recognized the pressing need for better accounting and sales management tools among small businesses. Its solution, 1Vault, combines multiple essential services into a single platform, addressing the diverse needs of Nigerian entrepreneurs.
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The platform streamlines the registration of companies with the Corporate Affairs Commission, simplifying a traditionally complex process. It offers comprehensive accounting solutions, automated accounting, inventory tracking and tax compliance tools. Through banking partnerships, 1Vault provides rapid account creation, access to loans, overdrafts, and savings tools.
Digital adoption trends in Nigeria have created fertile ground for such innovation. With over 25 million smartphone users increasingly using digital platforms for businesses, 1Vault integrates WhatsApp-based e-commerce, social media management, and order processing capabilities to help businesses establish a strong online presence. .
The startup has already attracted more than 200 businesses and processed transactions exceeding £20 million in its first month of launching payment services. This early success comes despite challenges, including helping traditional business owners understand the growth potential of digital tools and social media.
Learning from their previous company, the 1Vault team has implemented a sustainable revenue model that combines service subscriptions, commission-based income from bill payments, and interest from financial services. This approach reflects their determination to build a viable business while serving their target market effectively.
The founders bring diverse experience from the Nigerian and UK markets, strengthening their ability to address local business needs. Its ambitious goal of serving 23% of Nigeria’s MSMEs within three years demonstrates its commitment to transforming the country’s business landscape through accessible digital solutions.