Bolt, a leading e-hailing platform in Africa, has introduced its entrepreneurship-focused initiative, the Bolt Accelerator Program, to South Africa. This program, previously launched in Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana, aims to empower 10 South African drivers or their immediate family members with seed funding and entrepreneurial support.
€20,000 Seed Funding for Innovative Ideas
The initiative offers a total of €20,000 in seed funding, with each of the 10 selected participants receiving €2,000 to support their entrepreneurial ventures. This funding will enable participants to develop business ideas that address tech mobility challenges in South Africa, focusing on inclusive mobility, sustainability, and people-centered urban development.
Partnership with Pranary for Business Mentorship
In collaboration with Pranary, a hands-on business training platform, the program will provide mentorship, workshops, and strategic guidance. Participants will learn how to refine their business plans, with a strong emphasis on actionable solutions.
Sandras Phiri, CEO of Pranary, expressed the organization’s enthusiasm for the partnership, stating:
“At Pranary, we champion practical, results-oriented learning. Through this partnership with Bolt, we’ll provide participants with the resources and mentorship necessary to transform their innovative ideas into viable businesses.”
A Platform for Entrepreneurial Growth
Participants will have the opportunity to pitch their ideas to a panel, with Bolt emphasizing the importance of fostering sustainable businesses that can contribute to local communities. Simo Kalajdzic, Bolt’s Senior Operations Manager for South Africa, highlighted the program’s mission:
“Ride-hailing is more than just an income source; it’s a springboard for entrepreneurial dreams. We’re committed to empowering drivers to launch sustainable businesses that not only impact their communities but also align with Bolt’s vision for growth and innovation.”
Impact Across Africa
Since its inception, the Bolt Accelerator Program has supported 30 entrepreneurs across Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana. The company’s initiatives have ranged from creating maintenance apps and EV charging stations to fleet management systems.
The program also includes the Bolt Academy, which has equipped 360 drivers with skills to enhance their business acumen and career development.
Highlights from Nigeria’s Accelerator Program
The Nigeria edition of the program, launched in September 2023, provided €25,000 in seed funding to support innovative business ideas aligned with Bolt’s Africa City Vision for sustainable transport. Drivers from cities including Lagos, Abuja, and Rivers participated in a rigorous selection process, culminating in a two-week boot camp.
During this phase, participants were trained in business development, financial management, and digital marketing. They also pitched their ideas to a panel of judges from diverse industries, positioning their ventures for long-term success.
Driving Economic Transformation in South Africa
By extending the Bolt Accelerator Program to South Africa, the platform continues its commitment to empowering drivers and fostering innovation across the continent. With mentorship, funding, and a focus on addressing local mobility challenges, Bolt is helping to shape the next generation of African entrepreneurs.
