Bolt launches €20K accelerator program to support its drivers and riders in Kenya

Ride-hailing platform Bolt has launched the Bolt Accelerator Program to support its drivers and riders in Kenya. The program will see the company invest €20,000 (about Kshs. 2.92million) seed fund to support business plans developed by Bolt drivers and couriers or their family members that link to sustainable transport.

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.

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 prioritise people’s well-being, sustainability, and accessible mobility for everyone.

Caroline Wanjihia, Regional Director of Rides for Africa, Bolt: ''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 Bolt Accelerator Program has been an exceptional success in Nigeria, and we are thrilled to extend its impact to Kenya today.''

Through the 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 of €2000 (over Kshs. 290,000) each along with additional mentoring.

The program was first introduced in Nigeria in September 2023, before being rolled out to Kenya and Ghana. Interested individuals can submit their ideas here. 

www.bolt.eu