Launched in December 2024 in partnership with business academy Pranary, the program attracted over 578 applications nationwide, with Gauteng submitting the highest number. Women made up 7% of the applicant pool, an encouraging signal in a traditionally

male-dominated industry.

"When we empower everyday entrepreneurs with the tools to build, we don't just ignite businesses, we transform communities and shape the future of Africa's mobility," said Lerato Motsoeneng, Bolt's Senior General Manager for South Africa. "True innovation thrives in an ecosystem where ideas are nurtured, collaboration is championed, and every voice has a seat at the table. At Bolt, we're building more than a platform, we are cultivating a movement."

After a rigorous selection process, 120 drivers and couriers were chosen to join the Bolt Academy, where they received training in key areas such as market analysis, value proposition design, customer validation, and basic financial modelling. Twenty participants advanced to the final phase, where they worked closely with industry experts and mentors to refine their ideas. Their journey culminated in a live pitch event, with a panel evaluating their concepts on innovation, feasibility, and community impact.

Each of the ten selected finalists received €2000 (over R40,000) in seed funding and will participate in six weeks of additional mentorship to further develop their ventures. At the awards event, three individuals received special recognition for their groundbreaking contributions to innovation and entrepreneurship. The awards highlighted excellence across three key categories:
    Kamogelo Modise received the Most Innovative Idea award for Lupa Township Delivery, a sustainable, cost-effective, zero-emission bicycle delivery network designed to bridge the delivery gap in township communities through a community-driven model.

    Vutivi Shivambu was awarded the Most Scalable Idea for Liftsearch, a ridesharing platform that connects verified passengers with verified drivers, offering safe, affordable, and convenient long-distance travel to and from rural villages.

    Shannon Adams won the Best Pitch award for EXPLORE.SA.APP, a platform that links tourists with vetted drivers who also act as tour guides, enhancing travel experiences with local insights and safe transportation.

These awards celebrate creativity, growth potential, and the ability to effectively communicate visionary concepts. The winners were selected by a panel of judges based on originality, feasibility, and overall impact.

Sandras Phiri, CEO of Pranary, emphasised the importance of practical application. "These participants didn't just sit through lectures, they built real businesses," he said. "Our mentorship approach brought in active founders and investors to guide them in creating ventures that are not only viable but needed. These entrepreneurs are addressing genuine challenges in the transport space."

The Gauteng Department of Economic Development (GDED) is Bolt's strategic partner in creating a vibrant economy in Gauteng. Mpho Nawa, the acting Head of Department at GDED, lauded the Accelerator Program as a game-changer and said it was an example of initiative that impacts our communities.

"The initiative signifies our commitment to playing a leading role in supporting initiatives that empower communities and create rising stars. This partnership would help with job creation and unlock further economic growth and diversification in townships, leading to more investment from various sectors. This will help us develop a vibrant and competitive economy in the townships, especially in the digital sector," he said. "As a Government that cares, we recognise the pivotal role that innovation plays in uniting our country. This partnership with Bolt marks a

significant step in supporting township businesses."

Weyinmi Aghadiuno, Head of Regulatory & Policy for Bolt Africa, shared her aspirations for the future of the program: "Our dream is to someday host an Africa Accelerator Program where we bring together the top 10 winners from South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana in one room, sharing their ideas, inspiring one another, and potentially mentoring the next generation of participants. We've already seen remarkable success in countries like Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana, where this program has uncovered incredible talent, entrepreneurial spirit, and bold, innovative thinking from our partners. It's been inspiring to see drivers not only delivering world-class service but also proposing real solutions to local challenges."

The Accelerator Program reflects Bolt's broader aim to empower its driver and courier community with opportunities beyond the ride, helping them become active contributors to the country's evolving mobility landscape.