Bolt, the leading ride-hailing platform in Africa, has today launched an Accelerator Program to empower Kenyan drivers and couriers or their immediate family members on an entrepreneurial journey. More than just a means of transportation, being a Bolt driver or courier presents an opportunity to drive innovation and shape the future of mobility in Kenya.
A €20,000 (about Kshs 2.92 million) seed fund will be made available today to support business plans developed by Bolt drivers and couriers or their family members that link to sustainable transport. Program beneficiaries will be invited to pitch business ideas connected to Bolt’s vision of creating sustainable African Cities, which is about creating cities that prioritize people’s well-being, sustainability, and accessible mobility for everyone. Participants can now submit their ideas by visiting bit.ly/BAPKENYA.
The program will be run in close partnership with The Nest Innovation Park, whose network of mentors will support eligible participants in developing their business plans. Through the Bolt Accelerator Program, Kenyan innovators can harness their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit and seize the opportunity to develop sustainable mobility solutions that address the country’s pressing urban challenges and as well as contribute to economic growth.
As part of the program,120 shortlisted participants will undergo training designed to promote business development skills and support future career development. The top 20 participants will then receive additional training with seasoned entrepreneurs and in-person mentoring sessions. Finally, after the Business Pitch Day is held in June, the top 10 business ideas will be selected and awarded seed funding of €2000 (over Kshs 290,000) each along with additional mentoring.
Caroline Wanjihia, Bolt’s Regional Director of Rides for Africa, said: “Ride-hailing and food delivery has always offered drivers and couriers the flexibility to earn whilst pursuing wider career opportunities. We hope this program will take it a step further and help make a real difference to local communities. We are excited to support the concepts of our drivers and couriers and extend this program to their family members to make an even bigger impact. The Accelerator program has been an exceptional success in Nigeria, and we are thrilled to extend its impact to Kenya today.”
The Bolt Accelerator Program was first introduced in Nigeria in September 2023. Today, the program has launched simultaneously in Kenya and Ghana.
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