Google Hustle Academy Launches Training Programme to Equip 7,500 African SMEs with Digital Skills Across AfCFTA Member States

Google Hustle Academy Launches Training Programme to Equip 7,500 African SMEs with Digital Skills Across AfCFTA Member States

Small business owners across Africa now have a major opportunity to boost their digital and business skills with the AfCFTA Digital Inclusion and Entrepreneurship Programme (ADIEP), powered by the Google Hustle Academy.

The initiative is completely free and aims to equip 7,500 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

The programme is accessible to entrepreneurs across the continent, with content delivered in English, French, Arabic, and Portuguese, ensuring broad reach and inclusivity.


What the Training Covers

The ADIEP is built around three practical, hands-on modules, each designed to give SMEs the knowledge and skills to grow efficiently:

Cross-Border Digital Trade

Co-created with the AfCFTA Secretariat, this module focuses on helping businesses expand across African markets.

Participants will learn how to adapt products for regional demand, manage cross-border payments, and navigate shipping logistics—key skills for any SME looking to tap into the continent’s growing trade ecosystem.

Cloud for Small Businesses

Entrepreneurs will discover how to leverage Google Workspace and Google Cloud tools to reduce operational costs, improve efficiency, and enhance collaboration within their teams.

This module emphasizes practical cloud applications that can make day-to-day business management easier and smarter.

AI for Productivity

From marketing to workflow automation, this module dives into using AI tools like Google Gemini to simplify tasks, create content, and gain actionable customer insights.

SMEs will walk away with real-world techniques to save time and boost productivity.


Who Can Apply

The programme is open to SMEs that meet a few key criteria:

  • Must have been in operation for at least six months.

  • Must be based in selected AfCFTA member states, including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Cameroon, Senegal, Togo, Côte d’Ivoire, Rwanda, Mauritius, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Namibia, Zambia, Angola, Mozambique, Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco.

  • Training begins in November 2025 and will be delivered across 25 cohorts running through June 2026.


Why This Programme Matters

Participating SMEs can expect several benefits that go beyond just learning:

  • Discover opportunities in cross-border digital trade under AfCFTA.

  • Gain hands-on experience in AI and cloud technologies to grow and streamline operations.

  • Connect with entrepreneurs across Africa, building networks that can last a lifetime.

  • Access actionable strategies for strengthening and scaling your business.


How to Apply

Entrepreneurs interested in joining this transformative programme can find full details and submit their application here:

Apply for the ADIEP with Google Hustle Academy

Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn