Google has launched a series of programs that will help small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) not only expand and recover in Africa’s post-COVID economy, but also succeed.
SMBs make up almost 90% of all enterprises on the continent, and they are the engine that drives the economy.
While these enterprises employ 80 percent of the people in the region, the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions on commercial activities have had, and continue to have, a substantial impact on them and the livelihoods of millions.
“As more consumers begin their journey seeking for products and services online, we want to do more to help retail small businesses digitise and better utilize online resources for growth,” says Mojolaoluwa Aderemi-Makinde, Google’s head of brand and reputation for Africa. One thing is certain: when small enterprises recover, African economies bounce and prosper, which benefits everyone.”
Google has a number of activities scheduled for International Small Business Month, including:
- The launch of a new Google for Small Businesses portal to assist small businesses in obtaining the information and resources they require to get online and flourish.
- A series of SMB skills webinars targeted at helping small businesses interact with and develop their customer base using digital tools.
Also read: Google launches Peoples Card in Africa
- Shop Small Fridays is a social media video series that celebrates and promotes small businesses across Africa. Follow the #ShopSmallFriday series on our Google Africa Twitter account if you’re interested.
The Google for Small Business portal was created to serve as a one-stop shop for small businesses looking to get online and increase their digital presence, as well as to assist them in selecting the right tools for online success and achieving their business objectives.
“The goal of this portal is to assist businesses in going online. Aderemi-Makinde says, “In a competitive corporate environment, digital technology helps to fuel economic growth and job creation while providing vital services to people in Africa.”
This announcement comes less than a year after Google pledged to assist over 500k entrepreneurs, job seekers, and vulnerable people with support packages that include free business tools, training, and grants.
These programs demonstrate Google’s continuous commitment to ensure that small retail enterprises on the continent have the tools and skills they need to recover from the pandemic’s effects and re-energize the region’s economy.
SMBs can sign up for free webinars on June 9th, 16th, and 23rd.
