Call for Applications : African Business Heroes 2024 ( Africa’s Biggest Entrepreneurial Competition with up to $1.5 Million in Grant Money)
Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) Prize Competition, now in its sixth year, is searching for 10 exceptional entrepreneurs dedicated to making a positive impact in their local communities.
Sponsored by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy, the ABH Prize Competition aims to support, inspire, and empower the next generation of African entrepreneurs by providing grant funding, training programs, and ecosystem support. Over 10 years, the competition will feature 10 entrepreneur finalists annually, pitching their businesses to win a share of US$1.5 million in grant money.
Since its inception, ABH has highlighted and supported Africa’s brightest entrepreneurial minds. Over the past five years, ABH top 10 finalists (Heroes) have:
- Created 123,000 direct and indirect jobs in Africa
- Served over 37.5 million customers in Africa and beyond
- Raised over US$153 million (excluding debt raises)
- Operated in 52 African countries
ABH encourages entrepreneurs from all 54 African countries, across all business sectors, ages, and genders to apply in English or French. In addition to training, exposure, and networking opportunities, the top 10 finalists will compete for their share of US$1.5 million in grant money.
Benefits of African Business Heroes
- Access to a community of business leaders, innovators, industry experts, and investors
- Multi-disciplinary boot camps and training sessions
- Opportunities for exposure and networking
To facilitate engagement and applications, ABH will organize roadshows in multiple countries, including Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, and Zambia. These events, held in collaboration with local entrepreneur organizations and ABH community members, will provide valuable insights into the ABH initiative and enhance participants’ chances of success.
Further details about the roadshows and information sessions will be shared via ABH’s official social media channels and newsletters.
Applications for ABH 2024 are open until May 19, 2024. The top 50 finalists will be announced in July, followed by the top 10 in September. The final winners will be revealed at the Grand Finale in November.
Deadline: May 19, 2024