Bolt has announced the launch of an Accelerator Program to empower Kenyan drivers and couriers or their immediate family members.
A Ksh 2.92 million (€20,000) seed fund has been opened to support business plans developed by Bolt drivers, couriers, and their family members that link to sustainable transport.
To participate, applicants must currently be using the Bolt platform as a driver or courier, or be a spouse or child to an existing user. Applicants must also be residents of Kenya. Deadline for applications is 4th April, 2024.
The program beneficiaries will be invited to pitch business ideas connected to Bolt’s vision of creating sustainable African Cities. Working in partnership with The Nest Innovation Park the program will involve various mentors to support eligible participants in developing their business plans.
As part of the program, 120 shortlisted participants will undergo professional training 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.
After the Business Pitch Day is held in June, the top 10 business ideas will be selected and awarded seed funding of €2000 (over Ksh 290,000) each, along with additional mentoring.
Speaking at the launch, Caroline Wanjihia, Bolt’s Regional Director of Rides for Africa said, “Ride-hailing and food delivery have 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. The program is currently running simultaneously in Kenya and Ghana.