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Case Study

From the mining industry… to making the world a better place!

Sparki Innovation Challenge with Wildcats

Case Study Banner - Sparki Innovation Challenge - ERA Thailand

The Challenge

African Process Engineering Company (APEC) has developed Sparki, which is widely used in the African mining industry. It's a versatile sensor device that can be pre-programmed and perform various actions in response to various stimuli. Supporting the industry with best-in-class technologies and solutions is one thing. But how can they contribute to society, particularly local communities in different parts of the world, and make the world a better place in a sustainable manner?

APEC partnered with Wildcats, an innovation platform and an incubator, to explore Sparki's potential consumer uses, empowering the younger ASEAN generations to submit their ideas for how Sparki can be used to improve the world in innovative and sustainable ways.

The Solution

Our approach was to "personify" Sparki, closing the gap between what seems to be a complicated IoT device to a consumer-friendly smart sensor through a fun, cute mascot in a pixel/gamification format. We launched a four-week #SparkiInnovationChallenge campaign over the four-week idea submission process through different types of content, platforms, and in dual languages, Thai and Vietnamese!

We were where Gen Z is: published across Facebook pages and launched Tik Tok videos, managing a multi-country digital marketing strategy. We utilized a range of effective communication channels, including Wildcats' Facebook pages, nano-influencers, publishers, and community groups, to engage with young people and encourage them to participate in the challenge.

To further increase engagement, we also launched mini-challenges within universities to encourage students to submit their ideas. Overall, the campaign was a success, with many innovative and impactful ideas submitted for the potential use of Sparki beyond the mining industry.