• South African startup Uptooyoo operates a digital marketplace linking service providers with clients.
• The platform has recorded more than 10,000 downloads on Android, according to Play Store data.
• Uptooyoo targets both physical services and digital freelancing, with secure payments for online work.

Uptooyoo operates as a digital platform developed by a South African startup. The company designed the solution as an all-in-one digital marketplace that allows anyone offering physical or digital services to gain visibility, manage assignments, and connect with clients within a few clicks.

The platform offers a mobile application available on iOS and Android, where it has already surpassed 10,000 downloads, according to Play Store data. Service providers can create a professional profile within minutes, describe their skills, pricing, and experience, and manage bookings and customer reviews in one place. Meanwhile, clients can search for providers by category or location and communicate directly before confirming a service.

For digital services, Uptooyoo integrates a secure payment system that holds client funds until the customer validates the completed work. This mechanism provides financial protection for both parties. By contrast, for physical services, the platform focuses on matchmaking and coordination, while payment usually takes place off-platform after service delivery.

Uptooyoo targets a broad range of profiles, from traditional trades such as plumbers, gardeners, and hairdressers to digital freelancers offering design, web writing, web development, or marketing services. The platform’s added value lies in its ability to centralize and formalize activities that previously relied largely on informal channels such as social media, word of mouth, and community groups.

“We created Uptooyoo to connect talent with opportunities. South Africans should not have to rely solely on social media, community groups, or word of mouth to find work. With Uptooyoo, you can formalize your activity, expand your client base, and easily create your own professional website, all from the app,” said Courtney Wilson, head of business development.

By positioning itself within Africa’s expanding gig economy, Uptooyoo addresses growing demand for formalization and access to economic opportunities for independent workers. At the same time, the platform offers consumers a reliable, structured, and local way to find qualified service providers.

This article was initially published in French by Adoni Conrad Quenum

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum