Ideaz

Name: RainGo.

Problem it solves

• People forget or dislike carrying umbrellas daily.
• Sudden weather changes often leave people scrambling.
• Buying cheap umbrellas repeatedly is both wasteful and environmentally unfriendly.

Solution

A mobile app + IoT-enabled umbrella stands installed at high-footfall locations (like college entrances, office lobbies, metro stations), where users can easily borrow and return umbrellas.

How it works

1. Download App & Sign Up
   Users create an account connected to their email/phone.

2. Locate & Borrow
   The app shows umbrella stands nearby. With a QR-code scan, they unlock an umbrella in seconds.

3. Usage & Return

   • Borrowed umbrellas can be returned at any designated stand (not necessarily the same one).
   • Small rental fee (per hour/day) is automatically charged via the app wallet or UPI.

4. Incentives

   • Free usage for first 15 minutes (covers a quick dash).
   • Discounts for frequent users.
   • Penalty if umbrella is not returned within a set time, encouraging circulation.

Revenue Streams

• Pay-per-use rentals (primary income).
• Subscription plans for heavy users (monthly unlimited borrowing).
• Brand collaborations: local businesses can advertise on umbrella surfaces, turning every umbrella into a walking billboard.
• Event tie-ins: festivals or colleges can sponsor umbrellas for visibility.

Target Places for Deployment

• Colleges & universities (students are prime forgetters of umbrellas).
• Office complexes & coworking hubs.
• Metro, bus stations, and airports.

Differentiation & Value

• Similar to rentable scooters/bikes but far simpler and lower-maintenance.
• Eco-friendly: encourages reuse instead of buying cheap disposable umbrellas.
• Convenience and comfort integrated through a smartphone app.

Extra Features for Fun & Engagement

• Weather AI integration: the app pings you if rain is predicted near your location, reminding you to borrow an umbrella.
• Gamification: points or badges for consistent returns, redeemable for discounts.
• Smart lock & tracking: prevents theft and loss.