A glitch involving a lifeless mobile phone prompted Desmond Wiggan and Aubrey Yeboah to devise a solution that is now proving advantageous for audiences.

The innovators behind Battery Xchange, a company based in Charlotte, North Carolina, have introduced a portable mobile device charger service that users can conveniently get from nearby kiosks and return within a 24-hour timeframe.

The company was founded in 2019, initially focusing on serving bars and restaurants exclusively, according to AfroTech. Presently, the company operates in 62 locations across North Carolina. However, this is set to change as the company receives $6.3 million through a grant from the Department of Energy in collaboration with Black Owners of Solar Services. According to WCNC, 25 minority-owned businesses in the state will benefit from this grant.

“We have a kiosk, place it in locations, and cellphone users can rent external portable batteries,” Wiggan told WCNC. “Similar to how you rent a scooter or bike.”

Commonly stationed near emergency rooms and bars, the Battery Xchange kiosks address situations where finding an immediate charger might be challenging.

“Picture being out for some drinks and needing to call an Uber, but your phone hasn’t been charged all day,” Wiggan said. “We have a varying array of users.”

Moreover, Battery Xchange received a $75,000 grant back in August from Equilibrium Impact Ventures in honour of National Black Business Month in the U.S.

As reported by the South Charlotte Weekly, the chosen companies are required to participate in an eight-week program, which includes immersive workshops and chances to interact with guest speakers.

“We’ve put together a comprehensive program that will help minority business owners in the solar energy space gain access to much-needed funding,” Ajulo Othow, president of Black Owners of Solar Services, said.

With the newfound financial backing, Wiggan and Yeboah are gearing up to expand their venture, placing Battery Xchange kiosks in additional states.

“Our participation may bring us more business opportunities, and we’ll have the chance to bring those back to the state of North Carolina,” Wiggan said.