Bolt, Africa’s leading ride-hailing platform, has today revealed the top 120 participants selected for its highly anticipated Accelerator Program in South Africa. These individuals were chosen from a competitive pool of nearly 600 applicants, all of whom demonstrated innovative ideas and a strong commitment to shaping sustainable transportation solutions in the country.
Lerato Motsoeneng, Senior General Manager at Bolt South Africa, expressed excitement about the next phase of the program: “We are happy to commence the next phase of the Accelerator Program, which will involve mentorship and online business training for the top 120 participants. The great response we received from close to 600 applicants underscores the ambition and talent within our driver community. As a company, we are not solely fostering business growth; we are also committed to empowering and creating greater opportunities for our key partners on our platform.”
The Accelerator Program, in partnership with Pranary— a practical business school—will equip participants with the skills needed to launch and scale successful businesses. The selected entrepreneurs will gain access to expert-led training and proven strategies, helping them refine their ideas and turn them into sustainable ventures. Guest speakers for the program include well-known entrepreneurs like Mo & Michelle Mokone, co-founders of Mo’s Crib, a leading international homeware brand specializing in artisanal basketry and sustainable decor solutions, as well as Ego Iwegbu, co-founder & CEO of The Good Mineral, MSLONDON®️ Cosmetics & Miss Salon London®️.
The program will culminate in a highly anticipated Business Pitch Day, where the top 20 business ideas will have the opportunity to compete for seed funding. The best 10 ideas will be awarded €2,000 (about R40,000) each, as well as continued mentoring support to help their businesses grow and succeed.
This initiative reflects Bolt and Pranary’s ongoing commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and promoting sustainable urban mobility solutions within South Africa’s diverse communities. By empowering local entrepreneurs, Bolt is helping to create new opportunities and contribute to the growth of South Africa’s vibrant economy.
