Bolt, a prominent ride-hailing platform, has successfully concluded the ultimate phase of its Bolt Accelerator Program, a collaborative effort with The Nest Innovation Park. The initiative aims to empower its driver community, transforming them into entrepreneurs and enhancing economic prospects throughout Nigeria.
The virtual graduation ceremony for the top 10 winners took place on January 19, 2024.
Initiated on September 19, 2023, the Bolt Accelerator Program has not only elevated drivers beyond traditional ride-hailing roles but has also contributed significantly to the economic advancement of drivers in Nigeria.
Drivers from various states in Nigeria submitted numerous applications, showcasing their innovative ideas. After careful scrutiny and evaluation, the top 10 business ideas were selected as winners. Each winner received a seed fund of 2000 euros and proceeded to embark on a 6-week mentorship phase at the Bolt Den, a milestone celebrated during the virtual closing ceremony.
The initiative aligns with Bolt’s objective to contribute to Nigeria’s economic development while supporting Bolt’s African City Vision project, promoting shared mobility in broader transport ecosystems.
Recent insights from the Oliver Wyman Mobility Forum and Bolt project that the African shared mobility market is the world’s fastest-growing, projected to double to $8 billion by 2030. This growth is expected to create over 550,000 additional earning opportunities, bringing substantial economic and social benefits.
Weyinmi Aghadiuno, Bolt’s Senior Public Policy Manager WA & NA & CA, emphasized the significance of the mentorship exercise in nurturing and preparing the winners for real-world challenges. Aghadiuno stated, “The program’s legacy will endure through follow-ups, meticulous record-keeping, and ongoing growth initiatives, reinforcing Bolt’s commitment to fostering innovation, empowerment, and increased mobility in Africa.”
Participants shared their experiences, expressing gratitude for the program’s impact on their business ideas and personal growth. Arinze Emmanuel from Abuja, who aimed to address security issues related to car theft, thanked Bolt for the initiative and highlighted the mentorship phase’s value.
David Uviowho from Port-Harcourt, focusing on efficient deliveries through bike-based urban logistics, praised the program’s educational value and its contribution to the realization of his business idea.
Jennifer Modinatu, the sole female Bolt driver among the top 10, emphasized the importance of encouraging women to participate actively in initiatives like the Bolt Accelerator Program.
Temitope Stephen, winner of the Oliver Wyman Mentorship from Lagos state, has commenced private mentorship sessions with the Oliver Wyman team as he begins the operation of Raindom Energy Services Ltd, converting petrol vehicles to compressed natural gas.
The top 10 participants celebrated their positive transformations, reintroducing themselves as owners of CAC-registered companies and sharing insights from their transformative journey in the Bolt Accelerator Program.
Bolt and The Nest remain committed to propelling African entrepreneurs toward a future of innovation and economic growth.
Image Source: Techeconomy
News Source: Techeconomy
