With an AI focus, Google’s Hustle Academy relaunches to support African SMBs

Applications for Google’s Hustle Academy, a program aimed at helping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMBs) in Sub-Saharan Africa grow, are now being accepted for the 2024 cohort.

SMBs can access networking opportunities, mentorship, and comprehensive business education through The Hustle Academy. More than 10,000 businesses have profited from the program since it began in 2022.

This year, the program offers a big improvement: business-focused AI training that is incorporated right into the syllabus. The new AI modules concentrate on developing AI-powered marketing strategies, optimizing operations, and making data-driven decisions.

“AI holds immense potential for African small and medium-sized businesses SMBs, enabling them to drive innovation, increase efficiency, and unlock new levels of economic growth. The Hustle Academy has supported over 10,000 businesses that have gone ahead to raise funding and create jobs since inception. By incorporating AI into our curriculum, we aim to further amplify this impact, equipping SMBs to harness AI technologies for improved business performance and economic progress,” said Kristy Grant, head of B2B marketing for Sub-Saharan Africa at Google.

Applications for the 2024 Hustle Academy cohort are open to SMBs in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa.