Adiam Amanuel was inspired by a trip abroad and, with a helping hand from Launchpad, her team has developed an app to help people find out what’s going on in the Steel City
Tell us all about your company!
721 – which stands for seven continents into one – is a social discovery app that will help you make the most of wherever you go. Joined by developers Alex Yates and Bhav Prajapat, we are creating something which will get to know you and understand what you like to do so it can recommend upcoming events and experiences tailored to your interests. We are starting the app in Sheffield, pulling out what the city has to offer and presenting in a simple, swipe-based format.
When did you first decide to start up on your own and what inspired you?
After a trip to India. While there, I was struck by how many people came to me struggling to find things to do. After noticing there was nothing to help, I decided to quit my job in Shanghai and find a team to help me develop the app. The laws in China prevented me having room to develop the app, but when I returned to Sheffield, I also returned to the idea to help residents better understand what’s going on in the Steel City.
How has Launchpad helped you?
They have been so helpful. When I moved back, I wasn’t sure what was available in terms of starting a business. After my first meeting with Natalie Fletcher, I’ve been supported with an insight into everything available in the Sheffield City Region, as well as resources and guidance allowing me to get where I am today. With a strong foundation of networks, they have always been able to put me in touch with the right people.
What do you think of the Sheffield City Region as a place to start a business?
I grew up in Sheffield and still have found myself amazed by how much support is available. I joined Sheffield Technology Park earlier this year and two months later they were sponsoring me at the start-up weekend where I found my team. That is what is so great about Sheffield – everything is so connected, with so many events, communities and businesses. I have got more out of Sheffield than I could have anywhere else.
What are your hope and aims for the business?
The key focus for now is the official launch of the 721 app. Moving forward, we will provide guidance for users to take on their future adventures. Whether you have specific locations and dates in mind or want to explore other parts of the world and get an understanding of what is available, we want to help you plan better.
Launchpad advisor Natalie Fletcher said: “Adiam’s creativity combined with her determination have been so refreshing.
“I have been fortunate enough to see the ways in which the app has developed during the validation process and Adiam has always been keen to let user feedback influence the direction. I’m excited to see what’s still to come from this natural entrepreneur!
“Starting and growing a business is not easy and that’s why the Launchpad programme was created. Part funded by the European Regional Development Fund and our partners means there is no cost to the entrepreneur, so we can get straight to work on turning those dreams into reality.
“Stop dreaming and do it.”
Contact Launchpad for information now on 03330 00 00 39 or email: growthhub@sheffieldcityregion.org.uk
To download the 721 app visit the Google Play store, follow them on @721app on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, or contact 721journeys@gmail.com.