Small businesses are the backbone of Africa’s economy, generating nearly 80% of jobs across the continent.

This programme is designed to close the digital skills gap by providing entrepreneurs with AI-powered solutions and localized training that addresses the real-world demands of today’s market.

The initiative will build on the success of the Google Hustle Academy, which has supported over 18,000 SMEs across Africa since 2022.

Wamkele Mene, secretary-general of the AfCFTA Secretariat, commented on the partnership’s significance.

“The Programme aligns with the transformative goal of the AfCFTA, particularly outlined in the Protocol on Digital Trade and the Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade, to position MSMEs, women, youth, persons with disabilities, rural farmers, and other stakeholders as key drivers and beneficiaries of the AfCFTA.  It  is the demonstration of our commitment to fostering digital inclusion and empowering MSMEs to trade under the AfCFTA using digital technologies.”

“Technology is a powerful equalizer, and this partnership is about providing thousands of African entrepreneurs with the practical tools and knowledge to unlock new opportunities,” said Charles Murito, Google’s regional director for Government Affairs and Public Policy in Sub-Saharan Africa. “By focusing on critical areas like AI, e-commerce, and cross-border trade, we’re helping to build a more connected and prosperous digital ecosystem across the continent. This is a testament to our ongoing commitment to Africa’s vibrant and dynamic business community.”

A Curriculum for Continental Growth

The training focuses on action-oriented learning through three core modules, and will be delivered in English, French, Arabic, and Portuguese to ensure accessibility for entrepreneurs across Africa.

• Cross-Border Digital Trade: Co-created with the AfCFTA Secretariat, this module turns policy into practice. Entrepreneurs will learn to find new markets, adapt products, and master the logistics of cross-border payments and shipping.
• Cloud for Small Businesses: This module focuses on using cloud tools to boost efficiency and cut costs. Participants get hands-on training with Google Workspace for teamwork and Google Cloud for secure operations.
• AI for Productivity: This module provides practical skills to scale a business using AI. Entrepreneurs will learn to use tools like Google Gemini to automate tasks, create marketing content, and analyze customer data.

UpSkill Universe, a leading digital skills training provider, will manage the programme delivery. “Entrepreneurs across Africa are already driving change. We recognise the challenges they face, from the rise of AI to shifting customer behaviours,” said Gori Yahaya, CEO of UpSkill Universe. “This collaboration ensures we can equip businesses with the practical tools and technologies they need to grow, scale, and thrive.”

Eligibility and Application Details

Applications for the programme are now open. The initiative is designed for SMEs that have been in operation for at least six months and are 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 is scheduled to begin in November 2025, and will run in 25 cohorts through June 2026.

See how to participate:

Interested SMEs can find more information and apply by visiting here

Delivered in collaboration with global tech giants Google and HP Inc., the programme aims to tackle the digital skills gap preventing African entrepreneurs from scaling in today’s fast-evolving market.

A New Chapter for African SMEs in the Digital Economy

Small businesses power nearly 80% of jobs across Africa, yet many remain excluded from the technological advancements reshaping global commerce.

Through Skills for Business, UpSkill Universe is providing actionable, locally relevant training that addresses the real challenges of operating and growing a business in the digital age.

“African entrepreneurs are already leading innovation across their communities,” said Gori Yahaya, CEO of UpSkill Universe. “But in a time of AI disruption and fast-changing customer behaviour, many SMEs need more than ambition—they need access to the tools, technologies, and know-how to scale. That’s what this programme is designed to deliver.”

Building on Success: A Practical Approach to Training

Following the proven impact of Google’s Hustle Academy Business Bootcamp, which has trained over 15,000 SMEs across the continent since 2022, the Skills for Business programme expands on that foundation with:

• Hands-on digital training in AI productivity, e-commerce, and digital marketing
• Access to HP LIFE – HP Foundation’s free global business skills training platform, available online and offline
• Expert-led virtual workshops delivered by UpSkill Universe and Google
• A commitment to 50% participation from women-owned businesses

“These aren’t just online courses, they’re practical, empowering tools,” said a Lagos-based entrepreneur who benefitted from prior training. “They helped us rethink how we engage with customers and grow sustainably.”

HP LIFE & Google: Tools for the Future of Work

At the core of the programme lies HP LIFE, an online business skills platform offering over 30 free modules in multiple languages. Entrepreneurs will explore essential topics such as:

• Boosting productivity with AI
• Digital marketing fundamentals
• Launching and scaling e-commerce businesses

HP’s involvement reflects its broader vision to accelerate digital equity for 150 million people by 2030.

“When small businesses thrive, entire communities rise with them,” said Michele Malejki, Global Head of Social Impact, HP Inc. “We’re proud to support this impactful programme, helping SMEs access the future of work.”

Google: Empowering Business Growth Through Digital Tools

As a driving force behind SME digital transformation in Africa, Google brings deep expertise in digital growth and brand strategy to the programme.

“Small businesses are the heartbeat of progress across Africa,” said Kristy Grant, Head of B2B & Brand Marketing, Google SSA. “This partnership helps turn entrepreneurial ambition into tangible impact—building stronger communities, one business at a time.”

Impact Goals for 2025: Training 10,000 SMEs, Reaching Thousands More

By the end of 2025, the Skills for Business programme is projected to:

• Directly train 10,000 SMEs
• Indirectly impact over 59,000 individuals through community and employee engagement
• Expand inclusive access to AI, digital skills, and business development training across Nigeria and South Africa

This initiative represents a strategic alliance between UpSkill Universe, HP Inc., and Google to drive inclusive economic growth and empower Africa’s next generation of business leaders.

For more information or to register your business, visit here.