Bolt Collaborates to Empower Drivers with New Initiative

Emma Okonji

Bolt, an African ride-hailing operator, in partnership with the Nest Innovation Park, has launched an innovative accelerator programme to empower drivers on an entrepreneurial journey.

To this effect, Bolt has opened applications for the Bolt Den, a €25,000 seed fund available to support business plans developed by Nigerian drivers that link to its Africa city vision, based around sustainable transport.

Speaking about the initiative, Bolt’s Regional Directors of Rides for Africa, Caroline Wanjihia, said: “Ride hailing has always offered drivers the flexibility to earn whilst pursuing wider career opportunities. We hope this programme will take this a step further and support concepts that will transform drivers’ lives, make a real difference to communities and could even be incorporated into Bolt’s own operations.”

According to her, “Drivers are the heartbeat of our business, and we believe that offering more developed economic empowerment opportunities makes our platform a more attractive place to come. It’s a win-win and we hope to take the programme further afield in Africa.”

Co-founder at The Nest, Oluwajoba Oloba, said: “At The Nest, we maintain a deliberate and discerning approach when selecting our partners and undertaking projects. “We hold a high level of enthusiasm for the Bolt accelerator program due to its alignment with Bolt’s commitment to the prosperity and welfare of its stakeholders, a quality that distinguishes Bolt from its counterparts.”

Managing Director EMEA at Coursera, Hadi Moussa, said: “We are thrilled to play a role in unlocking potential and nurturing entrepreneurship among Bolt drivers. Through the programme, we are not just fostering individual growth with vital business skills, but also positively impacting Nigeria’s economic landscape. It underlines our belief in the transformative power of education on lives and communities.”