Startup Lagos

10-Mar-2025

Fresh News

Google Announces Hustle Academy 2025: Empowering African SMBs with AI, Marketing, and Essential Business Skills 3 months ago

Google has officially opened applications for the 2025 edition of its Hustle Academy program, designed to provide small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) across Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in today's digital economy.

Building on the success of previous iterations, the 2025 program will place a strong emphasis on AI-powered business training, alongside the launch of a new season of the popular "Hustle Academy Brings You" speaker series.

SMBs are vital drivers of economic growth in Africa, yet they often face significant obstacles, including limited access to funding, inadequate business resources, and a shortage of specialized skills. Google's Hustle Academy directly addresses these challenges by providing practical training, expert mentorship, and a robust entrepreneurial network, enabling SMBs to overcome hurdles and unlock their full potential.

Since its inception in 2022, Google's Hustle Academy has provided critical support to over 15,000 SMBs who have completed the bootcamp. The 2025 program aims to further equip entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed to scale their businesses in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

"We are thrilled to launch the 2025 Hustle Academy, continuing our commitment to empowering African entrepreneurs," said Kristy Grant, Head of B2B Marketing, SSA at Google. "This year, we are reinforcing our focus on AI-powered business training, enabling SMBs to leverage cutting-edge technology for growth. We are also excited to bring back 'Hustle Academy Brings You', featuring inspiring stories from successful African business leaders."

The free, virtual Hustle Academy 2025 bootcamp will provide participants with in-depth training on:

• AI Integration: Learning how to effectively incorporate AI into business operations, marketing strategies, and customer engagement efforts.

• Core Business Fundamentals: Covering essential aspects of business strategy, financial management, digital marketing techniques, and leadership development.

To be eligible for the program, SMBs must have been operating for at least one year in Kenya, Nigeria, or South Africa and be actively seeking to expand their business. Participants will benefit from expert mentorship, practical case studies, and valuable networking opportunities.

Complementing the bootcamp, the new season of "Hustle Academy Brings You" will feature candid conversations with prominent African entrepreneurs, including:

• Adenike Ogunlesi, Founder and Chief Responsibility Officer, Ruff 'n' Tumble

• Brian Jura, Founder & CEO, Home 254 Apparel

• Foluso Ogunwale, Founder of i-Fitness Gym and Wellness Center

• Nobukhosi Mukwevho, Founder and CEO of Khosi Nkhosi Fashion House

• Yolanda Odida, Founder of Pure Purple

These episodes, available on the Google Africa YouTube channel, will offer valuable insights into the challenges and successes of building businesses in Africa.

"By combining practical training with inspiring stories, we aim to provide SMBs with the tools and motivation they need to succeed," added Grant.

Applications for Hustle Academy 2025 are now open at g.co/hustleacademy.

Watch the new season of "Hustle Academy Brings You" on the Google Africa YouTube channel.

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