Google Targets African SMBs with AI, Marketing, and Business Skills

Google has started accepting entries for the 2025 iteration of its Hustle Academy program, designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa.

The initiative leverages the achievements from past years by offering advanced, AI-driven business education and debuting a fresh lineup for its well-received speaker series, "Hustle Academy Brings You."

Google indicates that small and medium-sized enterprises are vital for Africa’s economic growth; however, these businesses frequently encounter substantial obstacles such as restricted funding opportunities, inadequate resources, and a shortage of specific expertise.

Google's Hustle Academy aims to tackle these challenges by providing hands-on training, mentoring, and a strong entrepreneurial network. This support helps small and medium-sized businesses grow and succeed in our rapidly digitizing world.

Since launching in 2022, the Hustle Academy has already assisted more than 15,000 small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), offering essential training and resources to entrepreneurs looking to expand their enterprises.

The 2025 initiative aims to provide African entrepreneurs with the tools they need to utilize contemporary technologies such as artificial intelligence for enhancing their business processes, promotional strategies, and interactions with customers.

"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 strengthening our emphasis on AI-driven business training programs, helping small and medium-sized businesses harness advanced technologies for expansion. Additionally, we're thrilled to reintroduce 'Hustle Academy Presents', which shares uplifting tales from prominent African entrepreneurs.

The complimentary online bootcamp will delve into crucial subjects like integrating AI, teaching attendees how to embed artificial intelligence within their business processes, promotional strategies, and interactions with customers.

Additionally, the program will address core business fundamentals, including business strategy, financial management, digital marketing, and leadership development. These topics are designed to help entrepreneurs improve their operational efficiency, expand their customer reach, and build stronger, more sustainable businesses.

For eligibility into the program, companies need to be headquartered in Kenya, Nigeria, or South Africa, have functioned for a minimum of 12 months, and aim to grow their operations.

Participants who join will gain access to guidance from experts, practical examples from the business world, and significant chances to network, enabling them to build connections with fellow entrepreneurs, key industry figures, and possible collaborators.

Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).