Google, HP, and UpSkill Universe Join Forces to Roll Out 'Business Skills' Training for 10,000 African Small and Medium Enterprises
The Skills for Business programme, an initiative launched by UpSkill Universe, aims to equip 10,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria and South Africa with essential digital and business skills [1][2][4]. This collaborative effort between UpSkill Universe, Google, and HP Inc. is designed to empower entrepreneurs to thrive in today's digital economy [1][2][4].
Kristy Grant, Head of B2B & Brand Marketing at Google SSA, has stated that the programme is crucial for ensuring small businesses in Africa have access to the right skills and tools for growth [1]. The programme's central component, HP LIFE, the HP Foundation's free global business skills training program, is accessible in eight languages [1][4][5].
The programme focuses on providing actionable, locally relevant training tailored to African SMEs navigating challenges such as AI disruption and a tough business environment [1][3][5]. The specific digital and business skills emphasized include practical AI skills to unlock business growth, digital marketing techniques to attract and retain customers, and e-commerce strategies to boost online sales and productivity [1][4][5].
Michele Malejki, Global Head of Social Impact at HP Inc. and Executive Director of the HP Foundation, expressed that the Skills for Business programme empowers entrepreneurs to access the future of work [1]. The initiative also plans to indirectly impact an additional 59,000 individuals by the end of 2025 through community engagement and training outreach [2][3][5].
Google is participating in the Skills for Business programme, bringing valuable expertise in digital strategy and growth tailored for small businesses [1]. The training will be complemented by expert-led virtual workshops hosted by Google and UpSkill Universe to help SMEs expand their customer reach, enhance operations, and build long-term business success [1].
Small business owners and their teams will have access to over 30 hands-on training modules on HP LIFE, covering topics like AI productivity, digital marketing, and e-commerce [1]. The programme emphasizes hands-on, action-driven learning, with modules like Unlock Growth with Practical Skills in AI, Digital Marketing, and E-commerce [1].
The programme prioritizes inclusivity, aiming for at least 50% of participants to be women-owned businesses [1]. HP has been working since 2021 to accelerate digital equity for 150 million people by 2030 and is proud to back the Skills for Business programme [1].
The Skills for Business programme underscores how strategic partnerships can accelerate Africa's digital transformation and drive economic growth. Small businesses form the backbone of Africa's economy, contributing nearly 80% of employment across the continent [1]. The Hustle Academy Business Bootcamp, a previous initiative by UpSkill Universe, has supported over 15,000 SMEs across Africa since 2022 [1].
In conclusion, the Skills for Business programme offers a significant opportunity for small businesses in Nigeria and South Africa to gain the digital and business skills necessary to compete effectively in a rapidly evolving marketplace shaped by technological advancements and changing customer behaviours. The programme's focus on inclusivity, practical training, and strategic partnerships positions it as a key driver of economic growth and digital transformation in Africa.
[1] UpSkill Universe. (n.d.). Skills for Business. Retrieved from https://upskilluniverse.org/skills-for-business/ [2] Google. (n.d.). Skills for Business. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/about/products/skillsforbusiness/ [3] HP Inc. (n.d.). Skills for Business. Retrieved from https://www8.hp.com/us/en/campaigns/skills-for-business.html [4] HP Foundation. (n.d.). HP LIFE. Retrieved from https://www.hplife.org/ [5] World Bank Group. (n.d.). Doing Business in Africa. Retrieved from https://www.doingbusiness.org/en/data/exploreeconomies/nigeria
In the Skills for Business programme, small businesses gain access to technology-focused education and self-development, learning practical AI skills and digital marketing strategies to boost sales and productivity [1][4][5]. As part of this initiative, entrepreneurs are equipped with essential business skills needed to thrive in today's digital economy, with Google contributing expertise in digital strategy and growth for small businesses [1].
Small business owners not only receive training in AI productivity, but the programme is designed with a focus on inclusivity, aiming for at least 50% of participants to be women-owned businesses [1]. Through hands-on, action-driven learning and expert-led virtual workshops, the Skills for Business programme empowers entrepreneurs to access the future of work and contributes to Africa's economic growth by equipping small businesses with the competitive edge needed in a rapidly evolving marketplace [1].
