Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) Prize Competition has launched its sixth annual continent-wide search for 10 exceptional entrepreneurs who are striving to make a positive impact in their local communities.
The Africa’s Business Heroes Prize Competition is a philanthropic initiative sponsored by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy. It aims to support, inspire, and enable the next generation of African entrepreneurs across all sectors who are building a brighter future for the continent, by offering grant funding, training programs, and support for the development of an entrepreneurial ecosystem. Over 10 years, each year the ABH Prize Competition features 10 entrepreneur finalists as they pitch their business to win a share of US$1.5 million in grant money
Since its inception in 2019, ABH has spotlighted and supported some of Africa’s brightest entrepreneurial minds. The ABH top 10 finalists (Heroes) over the last five years:
have created 123,000 direct and indirect jobs in Africa
are serving over 37.5 million customers in Africa and beyond
have raised over US$153 million (not counting debt raises)
operate in 52 African countries
As ABH enters its sixth year, it is calling on entrepreneurs across Africa to pitch on the biggest entrepreneurial stage in the continent. ABH encourages applicants from all 54 countries, from all business sectors, and of all ages and genders, to submit their applications in English or French. Along with invaluable benefits such as training, exposure, and networking opportunities, the top 10 finalists will also compete for their share of US$1.5 million in grant money.
Benefit
ABH constantly explores effective ways to help the participating entrepreneurs take their businesses to the next level.
The top 10 finalists will also compete for their share of US$1.5 million in grant money.
Access to a community of business leaders, Innovators, Industry experts, and investors as well as multi-disciplinary boot camps and training sessions.
To better facilitate the engagement with entrepreneurs and facilitate applications, this year ABH will organize a series of roadshows in multiple countries, including Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, and Zambia.
These events will be conducted in collaboration with local entrepreneur organizations and ABH community members.
Participants will gain valuable insights into the ABH initiative as well as enhance their chances of success in the competition.
Further details regarding the roadshows and information sessions will be disseminated via ABH’s official social media channels and newsletters.
Applications for ABH 2024 are open from now until May 19, 2024. The top 50 finalists will be announced in July, followed by the announcement of the top 10 in September. The final winners will be unveiled at the Grand Finale in November.
