Google has unveiled an exciting development for its Hustle Academy program, designed to accelerate the growth of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Sub-Saharan Africa. Applications are now open for the 2024 cohort and this year’s curriculum will include a ground-breaking integration of business-focused artificial intelligence (AI) education.
The Google Hustle Academy has been instrumental in supporting SMEs, which are the backbone of Africa’s economy, by providing comprehensive business training, mentoring and networking opportunities. Since its launch in 2022, the program has positively impacted more than 10,000 businesses, enabling them to overcome challenges in accessing finance and developing key skills for growth.
Specifically, participants who received scholarships through Hustle Academy nearly doubled their success rate in securing new sources of funding beyond friends and family, increasing from 11 percent to 20 percent. In addition, the program has catalyzed job creation, with an average of 4 new jobs for every 10 businesses that graduated.
Recognizing the enormous potential of AI for African SMEs, Google has made the strategic decision to integrate AI-focused training directly into the Hustle Academy curriculum. Kristy Grant, Head of B2B Marketing for Sub-Saharan Africa at Google, highlighted the transformative power of AI for SMEs, enabling them to drive innovation, increase efficiency and unlock new levels of economic growth.
The new AI modules will focus on equipping SMEs with the knowledge and skills to leverage AI to make data-driven decisions, optimize operations and create AI-driven marketing strategies. Participants will explore practical applications through modules such as “Boost Your Productivity with AI” and “Marketing Strategy and AI”, learning how to save time and increase digital reach.
Grant commented: βThe Hustle Academy has supported more than 10,000 businesses that have gone on to raise funding and create jobs from the ground up. By integrating AI into our curriculum, we aim to further enhance this impact by equipping SMEs to leverage AI technologies for improved business performance and financial progress.β
Applications for the Hustle Academy 2024 cohort are currently open to SMEs in Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa, with the program running throughout the year. This initiative represents an important step in empowering African SMEs to embrace the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, positioning them for sustained growth and success in an increasingly digital and data-driven business landscape.