Bolt Accelerator Winners Awarded $22K Seed Funding

Bolt, a demand mobility company in Africa, has finalised its Accelerator Program in Kenya, culminating in an award ceremony to fete the top 10 drivers and couriers with the most compelling and innovative ideas.

The event, held at the Sarova Stanley Hotel, was launched in partnership with The Nest Innovation Technology Park, aiming to empower Bolt drivers to bring their bold, sustainable transport ideas to life.

Launched in April 2024, the Bolt Accelerator Program received over 800 applications from Kenyan drivers and couriers. Of these, 120 entrepreneurs were shortlisted for the Bolt Academy, a business skills training phase. The top 20 then advanced to exclusive training sessions with industry experts, further refining their concepts in preparation for Pitch Day.

At Pitch Day, the top 20 finalists presented their innovative business ideas to a panel of judges, including Linda Ndungu, General Manager of Rides at Bolt, and Maryanne Akoth, Director of Programs at ISBI, Strathmore Business School. The pitches were evaluated on innovation, feasibility, and impact, helping determine the seed funding winners. Ideas ranged from electric vehicle charging stations to business hubs for drivers, accessible vehicles for people with disabilities, and tech solutions for last-mile food and grocery deliveries, showcasing diverse solutions for community needs.

Linda Ndungu, General Manager, Rides said, “Our driver and courier partners are at the very core of the Bolt ecosystem. They are not just service providers; but are essential members of a broader community that keeps millions of people connected across Kenya and beyond. We recognise that, and today we are happy to be celebrating their importance and investing in their future.”

Oluwajoba Oloba, Co-Founder of The Nest Innovation Technology Park, remarked on the program’s significance: “Programs like the Bolt Accelerator are essential for driving innovation and entrepreneurship in Kenya. By offering resources, mentorship, and financial backing, individuals are empowered and this in turn helps boost Kenya’s GDP. A vibrant startup ecosystem fosters job creation, attracts foreign investment, and strengthens economic resilience. We commend Bolt and encourage other organisations and government agencies to support these initiatives to unlock Kenya’s full entrepreneurial potential.”

Following a rigorous selection process, the top 10 most promising ideas were unveiled at the award ceremony. These exemplary entrepreneurs received a $2,228 (over KES 280,000) seed fund each and will embark on a transformative 6-week post mentorship program. This comprehensive program will provide guidance, mentorship, and access to a network of industry experts, equipping them with the tools and support needed to propel their businesses to success.

Some notable awards went to Adrian Kagiri Amunga (Most Innovative Idea), Antony Gwaro Nyangaresi (Most Scalable Idea) and Teddy Muthami Muriithi (Best Pitch).

“To the winners, your dedication and creativity have rightfully earned you this recognition, along with $2,200 in seed funding. We are eager to see where your entrepreneurial journey leads from here,” added Linda Ndungu.