KENYA – Bolt, a ride-hailing platform, has launched an Accelerator Program for its drivers and riders in Kenya.
The program will see the company invest US$21,637. (KSh 2.92million) seed fund to support business plans developed by Bolt drivers and couriers or their family members that link to sustainable transport.
According to a statement from the company, the program beneficiaries will be invited to pitch business ideas connected to Bolt’s vision of creating sustainable African Cities. The vision is about creating cities that prioritize people’s well-being, sustainability, and accessible mobility for everyone.
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.
“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,” Caroline Wanjihia, Bolt’s Regional Director of Rides for Africa, said.
”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.” she added.
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 the seed funding along with additional mentoring.
The program was first introduced in Nigeria in September 2023. before being rolled out to Kenya and and Ghana.
Bolt partners OWIT to empower women
Meanwhile, Bolt has partnered with the Organisation of Women in International Trade (OWIT) to host an informative event aimed at empowering women drivers on its platform.
The event, aligning with the International Women’s Day theme of global women’s inclusion, fostered meaningful discussions on entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and well-being.
This initiative also aligned with Bolt’s commitment to fostering gender diversity and inclusion within its driver community and OWIT’s mandate to empower women to transform communities through global trade.
In addition to empowering women drivers, the event also promoted discussion and dialogue on what it means to be a woman in business today.
By highlighting the experiences, challenges, and successes of women entrepreneurs within the ride-hailing industry, Bolt and OWIT seek to inspire and empower future generations of female leaders and change-makers.
Furthermore, the event provided a unique opportunity for Bolt to foster connections and relationships with its female driver partners and bridge the communication gap between the company and its drivers.
By actively engaging with its driver community and listening to their feedback and insights, Bolt aims to strengthen its relationships with its female drivers and enhance their overall experience on the platform.
As part of the event, Bolt leveraged the opportunity to capture driver testimonials and share inspiring success stories from its female driver-partners.
These testimonials will not only showcase the achievements and contributions of women drivers within the Bolt community but also highlight the impact of initiatives aimed at empowering and supporting women in the workforce.
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