I&M Bank, in collaboration with Google, is rolling out the Google Hustle Academy programme to its MSME customers.
The free, practical training programme is designed to equip entrepreneurs with digital and AI-driven skills to help them compete, scale, and future-proof their businesses.
The initiative comes at a time when artificial intelligence is transforming how businesses market, sell, and operate, with firms that successfully adopt the technology gaining a strong competitive edge. For many small business owners in Kenya, access to such knowledge has long been the missing link between potential and performance.
“Being on your side means making sure our customers aren’t left behind in the AI revolution,” said Shameer Patel, Director Retail and Business Banking.
“We recognize that access to capital is only part of what it takes to build a resilient business. Today’s businesses also need knowledge, technology, and capability-building support to thrive. By partnering with Google, we are expanding the value we offer customers and deepening our role as a true growth partner to Kenya’s entrepreneurial community.”
The Hustle Academy, introduced in 2022, offers intensive bootcamp-style training covering business strategy, digital capabilities, AI, and leadership development. To date, it has supported over 18,000 SMEs, with numerous participants reporting higher revenues and increased job creation.
“We believe that the future of Africa’s digital economy lies in the hands of individuals and entrepreneurs alike. Our new strategy focuses on scaling reach by training individuals in the latest AI-centered tools and techniques,” said a Google representative.
The programme has already recorded strong results across Sub-Saharan Africa, producing more than 18,500 graduates, with over half being women entrepreneurs. Through its partnership with Google, I&M Bank is now localizing this model, making it freely accessible to eligible MSME customers.
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