Kenya: Bolt initiates Ksh. 2.9M accelerator program for drivers

Bolt has introduced an Accelerator Program aimed at supporting Kenyan drivers, couriers, and their immediate family members to enhance their opportunities.

A seed fund of Ksh 2.92 million (€20,000) has been established to assist in the development of business plans created by Bolt drivers, couriers, and their family members, specifically those focused on sustainable transport initiatives.

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 selected participants will undergo professional training to enhance their business development skills and advance their career prospects. The top 20 participants will receive further training from experienced entrepreneurs and in-person mentoring sessions. Following the Business Pitch Day scheduled for June, the top 10 business ideas will be chosen and granted seed funding of €2000 (over Ksh 290,000) each, along with ongoing mentoring support.

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.”

Following its launch in Nigeria in September 2023, the Bolt Accelerator Program is now concurrently operational in both Kenya and Ghana.