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Google Opens Applications for 2025 Hustle Academy to Empower African SMBs Google Opens Applications for 2025 Hustle Academy to Empower African SMBs

Google has officially launched applications for the 2025 edition of its Hustle Academy program, a transformative initiative designed to empower small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. Building on the success of previous years, the program will continue to focus on equipping entrepreneurs with cutting-edge skills, particularly in AI-powered business training, while also reintroducing the popular “Hustle Academy Brings You” speaker series.

Since its inception in 2022, the Hustle Academy has supported over 15,000 SMBs, providing them with the tools and knowledge to scale their businesses in today’s competitive digital landscape. The 2025 edition aims to further amplify this impact by addressing key challenges faced by African SMBs, including limited access to funding, inadequate resources, and a lack of specialized skills.

Empowering SMBs with AI and Core Business Skills

The free, virtual Hustle Academy 2025 bootcamp will offer participants in-depth training on two critical areas:

  • AI Integration: Entrepreneurs will learn how to incorporate artificial intelligence into their operations, marketing strategies, and customer engagement processes, enabling them to boost productivity and drive innovation.
  • Core Business Fundamentals: The program will cover essential topics such as business strategy, financial management, digital marketing, and leadership development, equipping SMBs with the skills needed to thrive in a competitive market.

To be eligible, businesses must have been operating for at least one year in Kenya, Nigeria, or South Africa and be actively seeking to expand. Participants will benefit from expert mentorship, practical case studies, and networking opportunities, ensuring they leave the program with actionable insights and strategies.

“Hustle Academy Brings You” Speaker Series Returns

Complementing the bootcamp, the 2025 edition will also feature a new season of the “Hustle Academy Brings You” speaker series. This platform will showcase candid conversations with prominent African entrepreneurs, offering valuable insights into the challenges and successes of building businesses on the continent. Confirmed speakers include:

  • Adenike Ogunlesi, Founder and Chief Responsibility Officer, Ruff ‘n’ Tumble
  • Brian Jura, Founder & CEO, Home 254 Apparel
  • Foluso Ogunwale, Founder of i-Fitness Gym and Wellness Center
  • Nobukhosi Mukwevho, Founder and CEO of Khosi Nkhosi Fashion House
  • Yolanda Odida, Founder of Pure Purple

These episodes, available on the Google Africa YouTube channel, will provide SMBs with inspiration and practical advice, showcasing how successful entrepreneurs have navigated challenges to achieve growth and sustainability.

Driving Economic Growth Through Innovation

Kristy Grant, Head of B2B Marketing, SSA at Google, emphasized the importance of leveraging AI to empower African SMBs. “Artificial intelligence holds immense potential for African small and medium-sized businesses, enabling them to drive innovation, increase efficiency, and unlock new levels of economic growth,” she said. “By combining practical training with inspiring stories, we aim to provide SMBs with the tools and motivation they need to succeed.”

Google’s Hustle Academy is part of the company’s broader commitment to supporting Africa’s economic growth by addressing the unique challenges faced by SMBs, which form the backbone of the continent’s economy. By incorporating AI into its curriculum, the program aims to equip businesses with the skills needed to harness emerging technologies for improved performance and scalability.

Opportunities for African Travel Professionals

The Hustle Academy 2025 presents a unique opportunity for African travel agents and tour operators to enhance their business operations. With AI-powered training, travel professionals can learn how to optimize customer engagement, streamline operations, and create data-driven marketing strategies. These skills are particularly valuable in the competitive travel industry, where personalized experiences and efficient service delivery are key to success.

Additionally, the program’s focus on core business fundamentals can help travel professionals strengthen their financial management and leadership skills, enabling them to scale their businesses and tap into new markets. By participating in the Hustle Academy, travel agents can position themselves as leaders in the industry, leveraging technology to deliver exceptional value to their clients.

Looking Ahead

Google’s Hustle Academy 2025 is set to play a pivotal role in empowering African SMBs to overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. By combining practical training with inspiring stories from successful entrepreneurs, the program offers a comprehensive approach to business growth and innovation. For African travel professionals and other SMBs, this initiative represents a valuable opportunity to gain the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s digital economy.