Google is now accepting applications for the 2024 group of its Hustle Academy, which is a program that aims to boost the development of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Unlike previous years, there a major addition in the current year which includes AI training with a focus on blending its use in various businesses.
The Google Hustle Academy intents to fill various gaps in businesses with full business education, mentorship as well as availing opportunities for networking.
More than 10,000 businesses have since received assitance from the program since it started back in 2022. People who got grants almost doubled their rate of success in finding new sources of finance beyond just friends and family – this went up from 11% to 20%. The program has also encouraged creation of more jobs, with an average of four fresh employments for every ten graduating enterprises.
Kristy Grant, as the Head of B2B Marketing, SSA explained that “Artificial Intelligence (AI) was very important for African small and medium-sized enterprises (SMBs). It helps to create new things, make work easier and can bring about a lot of economic growth.”
“The Hustle Academy, with its history of assisting more than 10,000 businesses that have later raised funds and generated jobs, wants to enhance this impact. By including AI in our syllabus we are trying to increase the effect even more by preparing SMBs for using AI technologies effectively in their business performance and economic advancement.” Kristy added.
The new AI modules emphasize on decisions being made and motivated by data, improving operations, and creating marketing strategies with AI. Students will delve into real-life uses in modules such as “Boost Your Productivity with AI” and “Marketing Strategy and AI”, where they can learn how to save time while enhancing digital communication methods.
The Google 2024 Hustle Academy cohort will accept applications from SMBs in Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa. The program will continue until the last part of this year. Those interested in applying can head over here and proceed.