Automobile

Bolt Gets €20M Investment From IFC, To Boost Earnings In Emerging Markets

Bolt has received a €20 million investment from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, to promote access to on-demand mobility services in emerging markets.

Brandnewsday gathers that the IFC’s €20 million investment and advisory services will boost Bolt expand mobility solutions that create earning opportunities, stimulate small-scale entrepreneurship, and improve access to transportation in Eastern European and African markets.

Meanwhile, the IFC’s funding will be channelled towards Eastern Europe, including Ukraine, and African markets, such as Nigeria and South Africa.

Advertisement

Bolt Gets €20M Investment From IFC, To Boost Earnings In Emerging Markets

In its efforts of new innovations, Bolt is currently piloting a ‘Women Only’ ride-hailing category in South Africa – a new service aiming to address safety needs and improve women’s mobility by connecting women drivers with women passengers. IFC will support Bolt’s ongoing work to empower women passengers and drivers by improving their access to safe and affordable transportation and creating new economic opportunities.

Commenting on the development, Markus Villig, CEO and Founder, Bolt said: “We are looking forward to partnering with IFC to further support entrepreneurship, empower women and increase access to affordable mobility services in Africa and Eastern Europe. Together with the investment from the European Investment Bank last year, we are proud to have sizable and strategically important institutions backing us and recognising the strategic value Bolt is providing to emerging economies.”

READ: How Bolt Facilitates Online Safety For Taxi-Hailing Riders In Nigeria

Advertisement

In a similar vein, Femi Akin-Laguda, Country Manager, Bolt Nigeria further said: “As leaders in ride-hailing, we are committed to improving the way people move in Nigerian cities. Safety and affordability are at the core of our operations and with this partnership, we’re even more dedicated and committed to increasing earnings, and providing entrepreneurial opportunities for citizens.”

Stephanie von Friedeburg, IFC Senior Vice President of Operations, said: “Technology can and should unlock new pathways for sustainable development and women’s empowerment. Our investment in Bolt aims to help tap into technology to disrupt the transport sector in a way that is good for the environment, creates more flexible work opportunities for women, and provides safer and more affordable transportation access in emerging markets”.

Bolt Hailing Company

Bolt launched Nigeria – its second African market – in 2016. The ride-hailing company currently operates across seven African countries, providing earning opportunities for over 400,000 drivers in 70 cities across the continent.

Advertisement

IFC World Bank

IFC — a member of the World Bank Group — is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets.

Facebook Comments
Adebayo

Adebayo is a Content Developer and website manager who loves to learn, unlearn and relearn. He has a knack for exploring the tech world. He is always thirsty to learn as the tech ecosystem evolves every day.

Recent Posts

Stanbic IBTC Empowers MSMEs With Business Growth Insights At Nigeria Business Summit Regional Tour In Ibadan

Stanbic IBTC - Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Oyo State embraced the opportunity…

59 minutes ago

GTBank Bagged Best Overall Performing Bank In Nigeria In The Banker’s Top 1000 World Rankings 2026

Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd (GTBank), the flagship banking subsidiary of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc…

1 week ago

Stanbic IBTC Hosts Clients At Lagos Polo Club’s Unity Cup In England With Chief Executive, Chuma Nwokocha

As a major sponsor of Lagos Polo Club over the years, Stanbic IBTC was proud…

1 week ago

Kenya Gives Central Bank Emergency Powers To Rescue Struggling Banks In 2026

Kenya has introduced new legal powers allowing its central bank to provide emergency financial support…

1 week ago

Stanbic IBTC Capital Wins Best Investment Bank In Nigeria At 2026 Global Banking And Finance Review Awards

Stanbic IBTC Capital, a subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, has been named the Best Investment…

1 week ago

Rethinking How Nigeria Supports SME Growth

By Olajumoke Bello, Head Enterprise Banking, Stanbic IBTC Bank Across Nigeria, small and medium enterprises…

1 week ago

This website uses cookies.