Sparking a community fire begins with the digital bartering of ideas and connections.
Written by a self-taught quick learner, Fundify was launched in 2020. Smangaliso Xekethwane used his lockdown time to good use and compiled a one-stop portal for residents searching for services in their area. Not to be confused with an American start-up investment app of the same name, Fundify.co.za is the Wildebraam Street-based one-man show that has the potential to amplify the area’s service providers and link people with products.
After the initial launch, the app took a back seat on Smangaliso’s agenda but 2022 became the year he has revisited his creation. Used to adapting to software programs, the 35-year-old is an experienced architect and through that role gained experience in niche navigation throughout the construction industry. Envisioning a platform where instead of businesses being listed arbitrarily, industry role-players and customers alike could promote and rate competitors.
While not a unique concept, Fundify sets itself apart through its vetting process, customer ratings and promotional features. Search engine and social media listings are not always reliable and Fundify’s creator believes that due to the entrepreneurial nature of residents in Weltevreden Park and the surrounding suburbs the area is ripe for a competitive interconnected club of commerce.
The pay-to-list app has subsections for every kind of service, allows for customisation of profiles, promotion of events and specials, as well as analytical data feedback. Aiming to build the network of businesses of Roodepoort first, any success will be built by those he shares the streets with. Fundify could be the framework for a digital commercial revival or evolve to be one gear in a larger community machine.
