Haiti Economic Research & Development
Meet Dieudonne
Motorcycle
Taxi
Service
Reliable and Efficient
Creates more jobs
Dieudonne's Motorcycle Business
Business Plan in Brief
Currently there is no reliable and efficient mode of transportation for the rural working class of Galette Chambon. Most people in the village attend classes, go to market, or seek other services in the Port au Prince metropolitan area. The only options for transportation are purchasing their own motorcycle or taking a car taxi, which are both too expensive, or taking the bus, which is very time consuming. These methods require a significant amount of time and money placing burdens and restrictions on Haitians.
Dieudonne believes he has a solution for the transportation problem in his community. He calculates that by operating a motorcycle taxi service, he can provide the personal touch of a car at a price point comparable to the bus. He emphasizes that this service will allow an easier method of transportation, obtain a better education, hold more fulfilling jobs, and provide an immediate access to healthcare.
Dieudonne’s solution is different because it bridges the gap between overcrowded mass transportation and expensive private transportation. By doing so, Dieudonne will be able to cater to an underserved group in the population and catalyze change in his area.
Operating Plan
Following Lean Startup methodology, Dieudonne plans to test his hypothesis that there is a need for motorcycle taxis in his area with one motorcycle. This will lower his startup costs and allow him to quickly modify his business plan as needed. He plans to operate similar to a franchise. Rather than employing a driver and adding to his cost structure, Dieudonne will have a driver pay daily for the right to use the motorcycle. The driver will pay $4 per day and then will keep any revenues for himself after he has paid the $4. This plan allows the business to be scalable, decrease the volatility of the revenue stream, and cut down on operating costs as the business expands.
University Student Biography: Mark Guffin
Mark is currently a rising senior majoring in Economics and Finance. He had the opportunity to partner with Dieudonne in crafting his business plan and video. He is originally from Little Rock, Arkansas. Upon graduation, he plans to seek a career in either management consulting or investment banking. In his spare time, he enjoys cooking and playing sports.
University Student Testimonial: Why I Believe in Dieudonne’s Business
“What it really boils down to for me is the amount of impact that can be had per dollar donated. The potential for impact with a taxi business goes way beyond transportation. This business could make the difference in a woman becoming a nurse, a father providing for his children, or a child receiving life-saving care. Funding Dieudonne’s project will pay dividends that reach far beyond the usable life of the motorcycle. It has the potential to be the tipping point for the entire community.”
--- Mark Guffin