HP Partners with Upskill Universe and Google to Empower 10,000 SMEs Across Nigeria and South Africa

Empowering Lagos SMEs with AI, digital marketing, and HP LIFE: A one-day bootcamp for scalable impact

In a powerful move to foster digital inclusion and entrepreneurial growth, HP Inc., in collaboration with UpSkill Universe and Google Hustle Academy, hosted a high-impact Skills for Business Bootcamp in Lagos.

On 16 July, the Bootcamp-in-a-Day event empowered 50 small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with practical tools, digital skills, and AI-powered strategies to scale in today’s fast-evolving economy.

The initiative is part of HP’s global ambition to equip 150 million people with digital skills by 2030, with a regional target of upskilling 10,000 SMEs across Nigeria and South Africa. Through HP’s free HP LIFE platform and Google’s Hustle Academy, participants received hands-on training in digital marketing, business optimisation, and AI integration.

“Technology should not intimidate small businesses – it should be the catalyst that builds their capabilities. Through partnerships like this, we are helping entrepreneurs embrace AI, streamline operations, and grow sustainably,” stated Emmanuel Eze, Country Director, HP Nigeria.

The day’s programme included multiple training modules led by thought leaders and trainers Gori Yahaya, Nnamdi Richards, and Emmanuel Odeh. These included:
• Digital Marketing 101: Strategies to build online presence and engage customers.
• Boosting Productivity with AI: Real-world applications of AI to simplify customer service, sales, and workflows.
• HP LIFE Module: Orientation on HP’s free global platform offering business and IT courses for entrepreneurs.
• Human-led Learning with Tech Support: Mentorship-driven sessions moderated by experts, ensuring inclusive learning for all levels.
• SME Voices: Live feedback and stories from entrepreneurs leveraging new tools to build websites, chatbots, and digital storefronts.

This shared mission between HP, Google, and UpSkill Universe promotes inclusive innovation, especially in underserved and rural communities. The Google Hustle Academy alone has already trained over 14,000 entrepreneurs across Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa – many being young women – creating a ripple effect of employment and opportunity.

“By democratising access to digital learning, we are accelerating Africa’s entrepreneurial future – one skill at a time,” added Ure Utah, speaking on behalf of Google.

The bootcamp closed with strong endorsements from participating SMEs, paving the way for future workshops, deeper engagement, and scalable impact across the continent.

For more information on the HP Life visit HP Life