Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Kenya are set to benefit from enhanced business training and financial support following a strategic partnership between Absa Bank Kenya PLC and Google Hustle Academy.
The 12-month programme aims to support 3,000 SMEs by equipping entrepreneurs with digital skills, financial knowledge, business growth strategies and the tools needed to formalise and sustainably expand their enterprises.
So far, the initiative has delivered three training cohorts, attracting more than 600 SMEs.
The partnership combines Google’s expertise in digital innovation with Absa’s financial services capabilities to help entrepreneurs navigate an increasingly digital business environment.
Google Hustle Academy is a free, one-day virtual boot camp designed to help small businesses thrive in the digital economy.
The programme focuses on training entrepreneurs in the latest artificial intelligence (AI)-driven tools and techniques, creating a pathway for long-term business growth while connecting participants to Google’s suite of products and services.
Participants undergo a structured curriculum covering AI adoption and digital skills development, enabling them to improve efficiency, strengthen operations and scale their businesses.
The programme also incorporates practical workshops, mentorship sessions and peer-learning opportunities to ensure entrepreneurs gain actionable insights that can be applied directly to their enterprises.
Absa Bank Kenya Business Banking Director Renato D’Souza said the collaboration reflects the bank’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs with the resources needed to succeed.
“We are thrilled to partner with Google to bring the Hustle Academy to more Kenyan entrepreneurs. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to empowering businesses with the tools they need to succeed. By combining Google’s digital expertise with our financial solutions, we are confident that we can help SMEs formalise and grow their businesses,” he said.
Under the partnership, Absa will provide participants with financial expertise, mentorship and access to tailored SME banking solutions, including credit facilities, cash flow management tools and market linkages.
The initiative forms part of Absa’s broader strategy to support the SME sector, which contributes more than 30 per cent of Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product and remains a key source of employment and economic growth.
The collaboration also supports Google’s goal of making digital skills and technology more accessible to entrepreneurs, enabling small businesses to leverage innovation to expand their operations and reach new markets.
Google Hustle Academy representative Kristy Grant said the programme is designed to strengthen Africa’s digital economy by empowering entrepreneurs with future-focused skills.
“We believe that the future of Africa’s digital economy lies in the hands of individuals and entrepreneurs alike. Our new strategy focuses on scaling reach by training individuals in the latest AI-centered tools and techniques. By doing so, we are creating a long-term pathway for growth that connects learners directly to world-class Google products.”
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