Applications are open for the Google Hustle Academy Bootcamp 2026, a free training programme for young Africans. The programme focuses on digital tools, business strategy, and AI; Google has redesigned it to be shorter, more practical, and easier to attend.
The new format keeps the training direct and usable. It gives participants a clear route into business and AI learning without a long schedule getting in the way.
Who can apply
The 2026 Google Hustle Academy format is open to individuals and small businesses across Africa.
This includes:
- individuals interested in business and AI skills
- Hustle Academy alumni
- past applicants who did not qualify for the programme
- business owners looking to grow online
- entrepreneurs seeking digital tools and new markets
Programme format
The programme runs in two stages.
60-minute expert webinars
The webinar stage is open to all.
These sessions are:
- focused and practical
- led by industry experts
- built around digital marketing, e-commerce, business strategy, financial management, and AI tools for growth
- shaped to fit a busy schedule
1-day bootcamps
After the webinar, selected participants will be invited to the Hustle Academy Bootcamp.
The bootcamp lasts 3 to 5 hours and includes:
- three high-impact modules delivered in one day
- practical frameworks, tools, and templates for immediate use
- live Q&A and interactive learning with facilitators and peers
How the selection works
The process starts with the free Hustle Academy webinar.
After that stage, selected participants will move to the bootcamp, where the focus areas include:
- business strategy
- sales and growth
- digital marketing and AI
- financial planning
- leadership and scaling
Applicants can get started through the official Google Hustle Academy page.
Benefits for participants
Participants will gain practical skills in:
- building and scaling an online presence
- digital marketing and ads optimisation
- business strategy and growth planning
- financial management
- AI tools for business or career growth
Content overview
The training content is arranged across several learning areas.
Business foundations for growth
- Module 1: Master Your Market & Sales Funnel
- Session 2: Upgrade Your Leadership in a Digital-First World
- Session 3: Making Sense of AI
Sell and scale with AI
- Module 1: Launch Your Online Store with Confidence
- Module 2: Practical AI for your business
- Module 3: AI: From Busy to Productive
Digital visibility and content creation
- Module 1: Design a Marketing Strategy with AI
- Module 2: Create Engaging Short-Form Content
- Module 3: Practical AI for Marketing
Growth strategy and financial planning
- Module 1: Set Revenue Targets That Drive Growth
- Module 2: Financial Planning for Businesses
- Module 3: Craft a Winning Business Pitch
AI skills for individuals
- Module 1: Making Sense of AI
- Module 2: Think Like a Consultant: Smarter Business Decisions
- Module 3: Practical AI for the Workplace
Application deadline
The application deadline is ongoing.