Introduced in 2022, Google’s Hustle Academy provides SMEs with business and management education, mentoring, and networking, with a particular emphasis on preparing them to package their businesses in order to raise the necessary capital to take their businesses to the next level.
Over 5,300 SMBs graduated from the Hustle Academy this year, bringing the total to more than 10,300 since the program’s inception.
Hustle Academy Fund
To support the expansion of SMBs in Africa, Google gave 75 million naira to 15 SMBs in Nigeria in September of this year through its Hustle Academy Fund. Interestingly, there are no equity restrictions for this fund, which further demonstrates Google’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurial growth in Nigeria.
According to Sinmisola Nojimu-Yusuf, Product Marketing Manager and the Hustle Academy Program Lead at Google, “The Hustle Academy Fund provides SMBs with the resources and support they need to succeed. With equity-free funding, mentorship, and opportunities for increased visibility and networking, we are supporting SMBs to grow and thrive. We are committed to supporting the Nigerian entrepreneurial ecosystem, and the Hustle Academy Fund is a key part of that commitment.”
When do applications open?
Applications for the 2023 Hustle Academy Fund opened in September and closed in October.
Applications for 2024 will open next year.
Google Hustle Academy Bootcamp
While waiting to apply for the Hustle Academy Fund next year, you can submit an application for the Hustle Academy’s free week-long bootcamp to gain access to live training sessions, 1-1 mentorship and masterclasses by industry leaders.
It is currently open to businesses in Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa.
To be eligible, your business will be measured against the following criteria:
Business Maturity: Businesses should have already created a business plan, defined their product/service offering and be looking to now scale this.
Size of Operation: The Hustle Academy is open to businesses that have at least 2 full time employees and have been operating for over 12 months.
Revenue Generated: This training is aimed at businesses who have generated profit in the last 12 months or are 1-3 months away from breaking even.
How to Apply for the Bootcamp:
To apply, simply click on this application form.
Once you have completed the form, a member of the team will be in touch to progress your application and answer any questions you have.
