HP Inc. and Google, in partnership with UpSkill Universe, have introduced the Skills for Business programme—an initiative designed to offer free digital and business skills training to 10,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria and South Africa.

The programme is geared towards helping entrepreneurs navigate the fast-evolving digital economy by providing practical tools for business growth, scalability, and long-term success.

Participants will benefit from hands-on training in areas such as artificial intelligence, digital marketing, and e-commerce. They will also gain access to HP LIFE, a free global online business learning platform from the HP Foundation.

Gori Yahaya, CEO of UpSkill Universe, noted that the initiative addresses the real-world challenges faced by African SMEs. “Entrepreneurs and small business owners across Africa are already driving transformation within their communities. However, they face significant hurdles—from navigating complex market conditions to adapting to emerging technologies and shifting customer expectations,” Yahaya said.

He emphasized that the partnership with HP and Google presents a powerful opportunity to equip businesses with essential knowledge, tools, and technology to succeed in today’s market.

Skills for Business builds upon the foundation of previous initiatives such as the Hustle Academy Business Bootcamp, which has supported more than 15,000 SMEs across Africa since 2022. The new programme focuses on action-oriented learning, combining self-paced modules with expert-led virtual workshops facilitated by Google and UpSkill Universe.

Key learning modules include Unlock Growth with Practical Skills in AI, Digital Marketing Essentials, and Starting an E-commerce Journey. Content is accessible online, offline, and via mobile app in eight different languages through HP LIFE.

The programme also places a strong emphasis on inclusivity, with a goal to ensure that at least 50% of participants are women entrepreneurs.

Kristy Grant, Head of B2B & Brand Marketing for Google in Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted the broader impact of supporting the continent’s small business ecosystem. “Small businesses are key drivers of progress in Africa and globally. As digital technologies reshape business operations, it is more crucial than ever to provide SMEs with the skills and tools needed to grow,” she said.

“We’re proud to support initiatives like this that help entrepreneurs transform their ambitions into lasting impact for their communities and local economies,” she added.

Although SMEs contribute to nearly 80% of employment in Africa, many still lack the digital skills required to compete on a global scale. This new initiative aims to bridge that gap by offering locally relevant training to meet today’s market demands.

Michele Malejki, Global Head of Social Impact at HP Inc. and Executive Director of the HP Foundation, affirmed that the initiative aligns with HP’s broader mission to advance digital equity.

“When small businesses thrive, entire communities thrive with them. The Skills for Business programme is about preparing entrepreneurs for the future of work,” Malejki stated.

He added, “Since 2021, HP has been committed to accelerating digital equity for 150 million people by 2030, by expanding access to technology and skill-building resources. We’re proud to support this high-impact initiative.”

By the end of 2025, the programme aims to provide direct training to 10,000 SMEs and reach an additional 59,000 individuals indirectly—underscoring the role of strategic partnerships in advancing Africa’s digital transformation and economic development.