Call for THE AFRICA’S BUSINESS HEROES PRIZE COMPETITION 2026 is open now!!
Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) is dedicated to identifying, supporting, and inspiring the next generation of African entrepreneurs who are driving impact in their communities, tackling pressing challenges, and building a more sustainable and inclusive economy. As an inclusive initiative, ABH welcomes applications from entrepreneurs across all African countries, sectors, and age groups.
Get the Youth Opportunities iOS App here for the fully-funded opportunities.
Each year, ten outstanding finalists are selected to compete in the ABH Grand Finale pitch competition, where they showcase their businesses for a chance to win a share of $1.5 million in grant funding. Beyond funding, these finalists receive extensive exposure through high-quality video features, media coverage, and influencer collaborations that spotlight their entrepreneurial journeys and the impact they are making. Finalists also gain lifetime access to the ABH Community – an exclusive network of like-minded entrepreneurs, investors, business professionals, and mentors. Additionally, they benefit from training programs, networking opportunities, and ongoing support to help scale their businesses and drive even greater impact.
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1. Youth Opportunities: https://m.me/j/AbZTmgEzD1UchDte/
2. Fully Funded Conferences: https://m.me/j/AbZTfhFTiPCnXf2D/
3. Full Scholarships: https://m.me/j/AbbrjbkOMM6I68Cs/
4. Paid Internships/Jobs: https://m.me/j/AbaAskb6jFFnRser/
5. Circle: https://m.me/j/AbY0vVKSPJULUnE4/
Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) is more than just a competition, it’s a transformational platform designed to equip African entrepreneurs with funding, exposure, mentorship, training, and a powerful network to help them scale their businesses. Their journey began when Jack Ma first visited Africa in 2017 in his capacity as special adviser to UNCTAD Secretary-General Mukhisa Kituyi. During his trip, he was inspired by the entrepreneurial energy and potential he saw in the young people he met. He also recognized many of the same barriers to economic development and entrepreneurship in Africa that existed in China when he founded Alibaba in 1999.
Location:
AfricaBenefits
- Grant funds of up to $300 000: Top 10 finalists share a prize pool of $1.5 million in grants ranging from $100,000 to $300,000. The winner takes home $300,000; The 1st runner-up and 2nd runner-up take home $250,000 and $150,000 respectively. All other 7 finalists, take home $100,000. An additional $100,000 is allocated for global immersion training.
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Global Recognition and Exposure: The Top 10 finalists receive extensive PR opportunities, amplifying their brand and business.
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Exclusive Entrepreneurial Community & Network: Finalists join an elite community of Africa’s most impactful entrepreneurs, gaining access to networking events, collaboration opportunities, and connections with business leaders across the continent.
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Valuable Business Insights & Feedback: Participants receive feedback and guidance at each stage from experienced business professionals and industry veterans.
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Mentorship from Business Icons: ABH finalists receive one-on-one mentorship from global business leaders, investors, and industry experts, both during and after the competition, helping them refine their strategies and scale their businesses.
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Targeted and Practical Training Programs: Finalists gain access to exclusive programs and partner services to strengthen their business acumen.
Eligibilities
- Founder or Co-founder – applicants must be the founder or co-founder of the business.
- African Identity – applicants must be an African citizen or a direct descendant (child or grandchild) of an African citizen.
- Business Presence in Africa – applicant’s company must be registered, headquartered, and primarily operating in an African country.
- Proven Market Traction – applicant’s business must have at least three years of revenue and demonstrated market traction.
Application Process
- Register an ABH account through the given ‘Apply Now’ link.
- Provide a reference to support application.
- Submit a short video introducing applicants and their business.
Application Deadline: April 28, 2026 (48 Days Remaining)
Apply nowOfficial link
