NAIROBI — Thousands of Kenyan entrepreneurs are set to receive business training, mentorship and financial support under a new partnership between Absa Bank Kenya and Google Hustle Academy aimed at helping small businesses grow in an increasingly digital economy.
The two organisations announced on Monday that they plan to support 3,000 small and medium-sized enterprises over the next 12 months. The programme has already begun, with more than 600 business owners participating in three training cohorts.
The initiative comes at a time when many small businesses are navigating rising operating costs, changing consumer habits and growing demand for digital services. For many entrepreneurs, access to practical business skills and financing remains a significant hurdle.
Under the programme, participants will receive training in digital tools, business management, financial planning and growth strategies. Organisers say the goal is to help business owners strengthen their operations, formalise their enterprises and position themselves for long-term growth.
"We are thrilled to partner with Google to bring the Hustle Academy to more Kenyan entrepreneurs," said Renato D'Souza, Business Banking Director at Absa Bank Kenya.
"This partnership reflects our commitment to equipping businesses with the tools they need to succeed. By combining Google's digital expertise with our financial solutions, we believe we can help SMEs formalise and expand their businesses."
Small and medium-sized enterprises play a central role in Kenya's economy. The sector contributes a significant share of economic activity and employment, making it a key focus area for both public and private sector development efforts.
The Google Hustle Academy programme is structured as a free virtual boot camp designed to help entrepreneurs navigate an increasingly technology-driven business environment. Participants take part in workshops, mentoring sessions and peer-learning opportunities intended to provide practical skills that can be applied immediately.
The training includes lessons on digital business tools, online visibility, customer engagement and emerging technologies that can help entrepreneurs improve efficiency and reach new markets.
Google says the programme is part of a broader effort to make digital knowledge more accessible to African entrepreneurs.
"We believe that the future of Africa's digital economy lies in the hands of individuals and entrepreneurs," said Kristy Grant of Google Hustle Academy.
"Our strategy focuses on expanding access to the latest digital tools and techniques while creating opportunities for long-term business growth."
Beyond training, Absa will offer participating businesses access to financial guidance, mentorship and specialised banking products tailored to the needs of small enterprises. These include financing options, cash-flow management solutions and market access support.
Business leaders say such partnerships are becoming increasingly important as entrepreneurs seek both capital and skills to remain competitive.
While access to funding remains a challenge for many SMEs, industry observers note that business training and digital literacy are also emerging as critical factors in determining which enterprises succeed and scale.
For entrepreneurs taking part, the programme represents more than a training opportunity. It offers access to networks, expertise and resources that can help transform promising business ideas into sustainable enterprises.
As Kenya's small business sector continues to evolve, initiatives that combine financial support with practical skills development are increasingly being viewed as an important part of the country's economic growth story.