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Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA: Complete Application Guide for African SMEs

The Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA Digital Inclusion and Entrepreneurship Programme (ADIEP) represents a transformative opportunity for small and medium enterprises across Africa. This free initiative is designed to empower 7,500 SMEs with the digital skills and cross-border trade knowledge needed to succeed in today’s competitive marketplace.

About the Program

The Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA programme is a comprehensive training initiative created in partnership with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat. This high-impact program equips African entrepreneurs with essential tools to participate effectively in cross-border trade while mastering cutting-edge digital technologies.

The Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA delivers training in four languages—English, French, Arabic, and Portuguese—ensuring accessibility across diverse African markets. The curriculum focuses on three core areas: Cross-Border Digital Trade (co-created with the AfCFTA Secretariat), Cloud for Small Businesses (featuring Google Workspace and Google Cloud), and AI for Productivity (including Google Gemini tools).

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA programme, your business must meet these criteria:

Operational Timeline: Your SME must have been in operation for at least six months
Geographic Location: Your business must be based in one of the 19 selected AfCFTA member states: Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Cameroon, Senegal, Togo, Côte d’Ivoire, Rwanda, Mauritius, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Namibia, Zambia, Angola, Mozambique, Egypt, Tunisia, or Morocco

These requirements ensure the Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA supports established businesses ready to scale regionally.

Benefits

Participating in the Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA provides entrepreneurs with multiple strategic advantages:

Enhanced Market Access: Unlock opportunities in cross-border digital trade through the AfCFTA framework, enabling you to expand beyond local markets
Technology Mastery: Gain hands-on experience with AI and cloud technologies that can transform your business operations and reduce costs
Continental Networking: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs across Africa through the Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA, building valuable partnerships and collaborations
Actionable Business Strategies: Access proven frameworks and strategies specifically designed to help African SMEs scale effectively
Zero Cost: The entire Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA programme is completely free, removing financial barriers to world-class training

Required Documents

While the Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA application process emphasizes accessibility, applicants should be prepared to provide:

Basic business registration information
Proof of operational history (minimum six months)
Business location verification within eligible AfCFTA member states
Contact details for program communications

Note: Specific documentation requirements will be detailed in the online application portal.

Program Structure and Duration

The Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA features a carefully structured timeline designed for maximum impact:

Launch Date: November 2025
Program Duration: Running through June 2026
Cohort Structure: 25 cohorts to accommodate 7,500 participating SMEs
Delivery Format: Online training accessible in English, French, Arabic, and Portuguese

The Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA structure allows for flexible participation while maintaining high-quality, interactive learning experiences.

Training Modules

Cross-Border Digital Trade: Navigate AfCFTA opportunities, understand regional market adaptation, and master cross-border logistics
Cloud for Small Businesses: Leverage Google Workspace and Google Cloud to improve efficiency and team collaboration
AI for Productivity: Utilize Google Gemini and other AI tools to automate workflows, enhance marketing, and analyze customer data

Why You Should Apply

The Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA offers a unique combination of benefits that can fundamentally transform your business:

Strategic Timing: With the AfCFTA creating the world’s largest free trade area, now is the optimal moment to position your business for continental expansion.

Expert-Led Training: The Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA curriculum was developed in collaboration with the AfCFTA Secretariat and Google experts, ensuring relevant, actionable content.

Competitive Advantage: Mastering AI, cloud technologies, and cross-border trade strategies through the Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA gives you significant advantages over competitors who lack these skills.

Risk-Free Opportunity: Since the program is completely free, you gain valuable knowledge and connections without financial investment.

Future-Proofing: The digital and AI skills taught in the Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA prepare your business for the evolving demands of modern commerce.

How to Apply

Applying for the Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA is straightforward:

Verify Eligibility: Confirm your SME meets the six-month operational requirement and is located in an eligible AfCFTA member state
Visit the Application Portal: Access the official Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA application at: https://rsvp.withgoogle.com/events/hustle-academy_inpartnershipwithafcfta/
Complete the Online Form: Provide accurate business information and contact details
Submit Your Application: Review all information carefully before final submission
Await Confirmation: Selected participants will receive notification with further instructions for joining their assigned cohort

For additional information about the Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA, visit the official program webpage.

Deadline

Application Deadline: The specific closing date for Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA applications has not been publicly announced. Given that the program begins in November 2025, interested entrepreneurs should apply as early as possible to secure their place among the 7,500 participants.

Important: With limited spaces available across 25 cohorts, early application to the Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA is strongly recommended. Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your business and access pan-African markets.

The Google Hustle Academy AfCFTA represents more than just a training program—it’s a gateway to continental business success. Whether you’re looking to expand into new African markets, modernize your operations with cloud technology, or leverage AI for business growth, this initiative provides the knowledge, tools, and networks to make it happen. Apply today and position your SME for success in Africa’s integrated digital economy.

Click here to apply.

About The Author

Henry Izuu

Henry Izuchukwu is a passionate business administrator who has dedicated his career to transforming lives through education and career development. With a deep commitment to youth empowerment across Africa, he connects aspiring students and young professionals with life-changing opportunities that help them achieve their dreams.

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