The funding program run by Google’s Hustle Academy has given N75 million to 15 outstanding Nigerian small and medium-sized companies (SMBs).
It will provide a big boost for these businesses.
As 5,300 African SMBs graduated from Google’s Hustle Academy today, Google’s commitment to enabling entrepreneurial enterprises and encouraging sustainable growth in the Nigerian business ecosystem was highlighted.
The Hustle Academy is known for making its solutions fit the needs of small businesses in Africa. Currently, 10,300 people have graduated from the school since it began in 2022.
People in charge of Google West Africa, Olumide Balogun, praised the tenacity and drive of these small businesses and acknowledged the Hustle Academy’s transformative effect on Nigeria’s business scene. He tells me,
These SMBs are inspiring because they are so enthusiastic and determined. It’s clear from The Hustle Academy how targeted training and tools can help people. We honor their graduation today and their promise to boost business in Nigeria.
Femi Bolaji, proprietor of Wauley Projects Limited and a fund beneficiary, thanked the program for its business knowledge.
He stated, “The Hustle Academy has taught us vital business knowledge, and being selected for the fund is a significant boost that will propel our business forward.”
Read also: 5000 African Entrepreneurs Graduate From Google Hustle Academy
Google Hustle Academy’s African success
Hustle Academy’s success goes beyond Nigeria. The academy’s positive impact on Sub-Saharan Africa is seen in Kenya’s Pippy Leather Works, which makes high-quality leather goods and empowers local women.
Another small company that makes high-quality leather items and employs local women struggled to grow and improve.
Pippy Leather’s founder, Milka Adhiambo, attended Google Hustle Academy in 2022, revolutionizing the firm. It has a strong web presence, boosted sales, and expanded personnel.
To promote SMBs’ crucial role in Africa’s economy and recognise their challenges, we developed the Hustle Academy in 2022. This effort provides specialised training in business strategy, digital marketing, and financial planning, addressing SMBs’ most significant concerns, Google says.
Google, USAID eTrade Alliance to expand Hustle Academy program in Kenya
The 15 selected SMBs
Google’s Hustle Academy Impact Report showed that 80% of participants increased revenue and access to new financing sources. With over 5,300 SMBs graduating this year, the program has proven successful overall, with over 10,300 graduates since its founding.
The 15 SMBs selected for the 75 million Naira grant represent Nigeria’s variety of entrepreneurs:
FIfeoma Augusta Anselem – Rae’s Clothing
Femi Bolaji – Wauley Projects Limited
Nafisa Abdulrazaq Sabo – Pinch N’ Dash
Funmilola Moronke Agbayewa – Segunfunmi Foods Nigeria Limited
Chigozie Bashua – The Nut Place Limited
John Samuel Andefiki – Kita Farm
Hussaini Aliyu Baba – Lead Way Family Poultry
Aminu Abdulkarim – A.A.K. Shoes
Constance Ufuoma Edesiri – Stance Fashion Empire
Chikere Onyinyechi Breakthrough – Clozetsales
Anita Aletor – Rotela Business Synergy
Ojo Femi Christopher – Foodlane Ventures
Angela Jidechukwu Nwabueze – Jelapetra Farms Ltd
Eniola Robert – Ennie Wears
Blessing Akpan – Inyene Agro Processing Factory Ltd
These SMBs’ successes show business growth and their vital role in economic growth in their communities and the nation.