Yesterday, Bold announced the launch of its Accelerator program to empower Kenyan drivers and couriers or their immediate family members on an entrepreneurial journey. Bolt says it is more than just a means of transportation and being a Bolt driver or courier presents an opportunity to drive innovation and shape the future of mobility in Kenya. The Bolt Accelerator Program was first introduced in Nigeria in September 2023. The programme has now expanded to Kenya and Ghana.
Ksh 2.92 Million in Seed Funding
A €20,000 (about Kshs 2.92million) 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 have the chance to pitch business ideas connected to Bolt’s vision of creating sustainable African Cities, which is about creating cities that prioritise people’s well-being, sustainability, and accessible mobility for everyone. Participants can now submit their ideas by visiting bit.ly/BAPKENYA.
Partnership with The Nest Innovation Park
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.
Training for participants
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 the seed funding of €2000 (over Kshs 290,000) each along with additional mentoring.
Comments
Caroline Wanjihia, Bolt’s Regional Director of Rides for Africa, said: “Ride hailing and food delivery have always offered drivers and couriers a 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.”
Open to Drivers and their Family
The Bolt Accelerator Program is open to all registered Bolt drivers and their immediate family members across Kenya. Applications are ongoing and will conclude on 4th of April. Selected participants will be equipped with invaluable mentorship, workshops, and access to funding, all the ingredients for a recipe of entrepreneurial success.
Eligibility Criteria
- Active Bolt Driver/Courier or Immediate Family Member: Participants must currently be using the Bolt platform as a driver/courier or be a spouse/child to an existing user.
- Residency: Participants must be residents of Kenya.
- Time Commitment: Selected participants must dedicate time to take part in the intensive training and mentoring sessions.
- Feasible Business Idea: Participants’ ideas should address real-life tech mobility challenges in Kenya.
Read: Bolt Introduces New Cancellation Option to Discourage Offline Trips
