INSPIRATION SkillLink was inspired by the everyday challenge many Nigerians face: finding trustworthy, skilled service providers from plumbers to tailors without relying on luck or risky referrals. At the same time, millions of skilled workers remain underemployed due to limited visibility, lack of trust from potential clients, or inability to access digital platforms because they don't own smartphones. We wanted to solve both problems and give everyone, regardless of device or location, a fair shot.
WHAT IT DOES SkillLink is a digital platform that connects people with verified, local skilled professionals whether they use a smartphone or a basic phone. It allows users to:
Search and request services
Be matched with nearby, rated providers
Pay securely via in-app wallet or MTN MoMo
Confirm service completion before funds are released
With SkillLink Assist (in development), users without smartphones can also request services via USSD, SMS, or voice call, making the platform truly inclusive.
HOW WE BUILT IT We started by building a mobile and web app using modern backend APIs, with a focus on modularity, security, and scalability. Key components include: Service matching engine matches users with providers based on skills, location, rating, and availability Digital wallet enables secure payments, top-ups, and withdrawals Provider dashboard helps artisans manage jobs and earnings
SkillLink Assist system being developed using MTN USSD, SMS APIs, and voice-to-AI features for basic phone access We’re currently hosted on cloud infrastructure and planning tighter integration with MTN APIs for payment, messaging, and offline access.
CHALLENGES WE RAN INTO Many service providers don’t own smartphones, which challenged our original mobile-only approach.
Limited initial funding made it hard to move fast with development and marketing.
Trust between clients and artisans was hard to establish without physical verification or reviews we had to rethink user verification, confirmation flows, and proof of completion features. Navigating USSD and telecom integration for offline users proved more complex than expected.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS THAT WE'RE PROUD OF
Built and tested the first version of our app and wallet system Developed a service confirmation and approval system to protect both users and providers Secured an office, paid for app development, and mobilized a small but committed team Gained early support and engagement from users who see the value, even before full launch Pushed forward with the SkillLink Assist system an innovation that opens digital access to underserved communities
WHAT WE LEARNED Inclusivity is everything tech solutions in Africa must work across devices, networks, and income levels.User trust is earned through transparency, verification, and protection not just design.Simple, reliable tools (like USSD and SMS) are still powerful when combined with smart backend systems.Finally, we learned that building something meaningful takes persistence, adaptability, and a deep understanding of local realities not just code.
WHAT IS NEXT FOR SKILL- LINK We’re entering an exciting next phase of development and growth. Our key priorities moving forward include:
- Launching the Full Platform
Complete development and testing of the SkillLink mobile and web apps
Finalize the in-app wallet and integrate MTN MoMo for seamless payments
Go live in select cities as part of a phased rollout
- Building SkillLink Assist
Deploy our USSD, SMS, and voice-based system to support users without smartphones
Partner with MTN and local telecoms for smooth integration and national coverage
User Acquisition and Training Onboard and train thousands of skilled service providersLaunch awareness campaigns to attract users both online and offline
Strengthening Trust and Safety Implement verification tools for artisans (ID/NIN, location, reviews) Introduce optional photo/video proof and geo-check-in for job completion
Investor and Partnership Engagement Secure funding to expand infrastructure and reachCollaborate with governments, NGOs, and telecom partners to scale impact
Platform Optimization and AI Integration
Improve our smart matching system using AI
Add features like service history, scheduling, and auto-translation for better user experience
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