Bolt Launches €25,000 Seed Fund Accelerator for Nigerian Drivers – Bolt, a leading ride-hailing operator in Africa, is gearing up to boost the entrepreneurial spirit of Nigerian drivers through a €25,000 accelerator programme. This initiative is aimed at supporting sustainable transport business plans that align with Bolt’s Africa City Vision.
An Opportunity for Sustainable Transport Ideas
Bolt’s seed fund is crafted to back business proposals devised by Nigerian drivers that resonate with the vision of sustainable urban mobility. The programme, a part of Bolt’s innovative accelerator called Bolt’s Den, is orchestrated in collaboration with The Nest Innovation Park (known as ‘The Nest’).
Caroline Wanjihia, Bolt’s Regional Director of Rides for Africa, elaborated on the significance of this partnership for Nigerian drivers: “Ride-hailing has always been a gateway for drivers to earn while exploring broader career horizons. Through this programme, we aim to elevate this notion by nurturing ideas that can not only revolutionize drivers’ lives but also bring meaningful changes to communities. Some of these innovative solutions might even find their way into Bolt’s core operations in the future.”
She further highlighted the central role drivers play in Bolt’s ecosystem, noting, “By providing drivers with enhanced economic empowerment avenues, we not only enrich their professional journey but also make Bolt an even more appealing platform to join. It’s a symbiotic relationship, and we’re optimistic about expanding this initiative across Africa.”
Programme Details and Timeline
The application window for this promising accelerator will open on September 18 and conclude by September 29. Chosen participants can look forward to a treasure trove of benefits including mentorship, workshops, and, most importantly, funding – all pivotal elements for entrepreneurial triumph.
Drivers participating in this programme will be encouraged to brainstorm and present business concepts that are in sync with Bolt’s African City Vision, which emphasizes human well-being, environmental sustainability, and equitable mobility.
A Glimpse into the Programme Phases
- Idea Submission and Screening: All submitted ideas will undergo a meticulous assessment.
- Idea Interviews and Selection: Post detailed interviews, the top 20 drivers with the most promising ideas will move forward.
- Mentorship for Top 20: These chosen drivers will receive intensive mentorship to ready them for the grand finale – the pitch day.
- Pitch Day and Seed Fund: On the pitch day, drivers will present their ideas, competing for the seed fund. The 10 standout ideas will be rewarded with 2000 euros each.
In a nutshell, Bolt’s accelerator programme symbolizes a golden opportunity for Nigerian drivers to transform their innovative ideas into reality, all while making a positive impact on the future of urban mobility.