Bolt officially expanded its Accelerator Programme to South Africa on December 4, 2024. This initiative aims to empower local entrepreneurs, particularly Bolt drivers and their families, by providing seed funding and mentorship.
Following successful launches in Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya, Bolt is now seeking 10 startups to receive €20,000 (approximately R380,000) in funding.
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Eligibility criteria for Bolt Accelerator Program
To participate in the Bolt Accelerator Program, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Driver requirement: Must be an active driver on the Bolt platform with at least 100 completed trips.
Family members: Spouses or children (18+) can apply, verified through the driver’s account. Only one family member can apply.
Residency: Applicants must reside in South Africa.
Time commitment: Availability for two months of intensive hybrid training and mentoring during offpeak hours is required.
Business idea: Proposals should address real-life tech mobility challenges, focusing on sustainability or creating inclusive cities.
Supporting local entrepreneurs
The programme invites participants to pitch innovative business ideas that tackle realworld mobility challenges in South Africa. Focus areas include sustainability and creating inclusive cities.
Each selected startup will receive €2,000 (about R40,000) and comprehensive mentorship and training through a partnership with Pranary, a practical business school.
Simo Kalajdzic, Bolt’s Senior Operations Manager for South Africa, emphasised the programme’s vision: “We see ridehailing as more than just a source of income; it’s a launchpad for entrepreneurial dreams.”
He expressed excitement about supporting drivers’ projects that contribute to community development.
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A path to success
Pranary’s CEO, Sandras Phiri, echoed the same sentiment: “At Pranary, we believe in practical, hands-on learning that produces real results.”
The collaboration aims to equip participants with essential skills and guidance to transform their ideas into viable businesses.
Since its inception, the Bolt Accelerator Programme has successfully funded 30 driver partners across Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya.
Additionally, 360 drivers have participated in the Bolt Academy skills development programme.
These initiatives have created diverse businesses ranging from maintenance apps to electric vehicle charging stations. With this expansion into South Africa, Bolt continues its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship within the ride hailing community.
Applicants can submit their ideas here