Sylvia Duruson
Bolt, a prominent player in Africa’s demand mobility sector, has concluded its pioneering Accelerator Program in Kenya. The initiative, aimed at fostering innovation among its drivers and couriers, culminated in an award ceremony at the Sarova Stanley Hotel. This program, launched in partnership with The Nest Innovation Technology Park, sought to empower Bolt’s workforce to transform their innovative transport ideas into reality.
The program, which kicked off in April 2024, attracted over 800 applications from Kenyan drivers and couriers. Through a rigorous selection process, 120 aspiring entrepreneurs were chosen for the Bolt Academy, where they received comprehensive business skills training. The top 20 candidates then advanced to exclusive mentoring sessions with industry experts, honing their concepts for the final Pitch Day.
On Pitch Day, finalists presented their business ideas to a distinguished panel. Judges included Linda Ndungu, Bolt’s General Manager of Rides, and Maryanne Akoth, Director of Programs at ISBI, Strathmore Business School. The panel evaluated pitches based on innovation, feasibility, and potential impact. The diverse range of ideas showcased solutions addressing various community needs, from electric vehicle charging stations to accessible vehicles for people with disabilities.
Linda Ndungu emphasized the crucial role of drivers and couriers in Bolt’s ecosystem, highlighting their importance beyond mere service provision. The company’s investment in their future through this program underscores Bolt’s commitment to its partners’ growth and development.
Oluwajoba Oloba, Co-Founder of The Nest Innovation Technology Park, stressed the significance of such programs in driving innovation and entrepreneurship in Kenya. He noted that initiatives like Bolt’s Accelerator contribute to job creation, attract foreign investment, and enhance economic resilience. Oloba encouraged other organizations and government agencies to support similar endeavors to unlock Kenya’s entrepreneurial potential fully.
The award ceremony revealed the top 10 most promising ideas. Each winning entrepreneur received a seed fund of $2,228 (over KES 280,000) and will participate in a 6-week post-mentorship program. This follow-up initiative aims to provide guidance, mentorship, and access to a network of industry experts, equipping the winners with essential tools for business success.
Notable awards were presented to Adrian Kagiri Amunga for the Most Innovative Idea, Antony Gwaro Nyangaresi for the Most Scalable Idea, and Teddy Muthami Muriithi for the Best Pitch. These recognitions highlight the diverse talents and innovative thinking among Bolt’s driver and courier community.
The Bolt Accelerator Program represents a significant step in nurturing entrepreneurship within Kenya’s gig economy. By providing resources, mentorship, and financial support, Bolt is not only investing in its partners but also contributing to the broader economic development of Kenya. The program’s success demonstrates the untapped potential within the ride-hailing and delivery sectors, showcasing how drivers and couriers can evolve from service providers to innovative entrepreneurs.
This initiative aligns with Kenya’s growing reputation as a hub for technological innovation in East Africa. By fostering a culture of entrepreneurship among its workforce, Bolt is contributing to the country’s digital transformation and economic growth. The diverse range of ideas presented, from tech solutions for last-mile deliveries to business hubs for drivers, illustrates the multifaceted approach to solving urban mobility challenges.
As the winners embark on their entrepreneurial journeys with seed funding and ongoing support, the impact of this program is expected to ripple through Kenya’s transport and technology sectors. The Bolt Accelerator Program serves as a model for how companies can invest in their workforce, fostering innovation and creating opportunities for growth beyond traditional employment roles.
