The pursuit of Africa’s next generation of business leaders and change-makers has commenced with the inauguration of the sixth annual Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) Prize Competition.
Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) represents a philanthropic endeavor initiated by the Jack Ma Foundation, dedicated to nurturing African entrepreneurs.
This continent-wide quest endeavors to recognize and celebrate 10 outstanding entrepreneurs committed to making a positive impact within their local communities.
Program Overview
Over the span of a decade, the ABH program has sought to spotlight the endeavors of 100 African entrepreneurs while equipping them with essential resources such as grant funding, training programs, and comprehensive support to bolster the wider African entrepreneurial landscape.
Benefits
Participants in the ABH initiative stand to gain the following benefits:
- Grant Funding: The top 10 finalists will vie for a share of $1.5 million in grant funding to propel the growth and expansion of their ventures.
- Training Programs: Entrants will gain access to exclusive entrepreneurship training, mentorship, and learning initiatives designed to enhance their skills and knowledge.
- Networking Opportunities: Entrepreneurs will become part of a community comprising like-minded individuals, business leaders, investors, and mentors, fostering collaboration and mutual growth.
- Exposure: Finalists will garner global recognition and exposure through media features, documentaries, and the ABH TV show, amplifying narratives of passion, resilience, and innovation.
Eligibility Criteria
To partake in the program, applicants must fulfill the following criteria:
- ABH extends its welcome to candidates from all 54 African nations, thereby fostering inclusivity and diversity.
- The initiative is open to entrepreneurs of all ages and genders, championing equal opportunities for all.
- Entrepreneurs from diverse industries and sectors are eligible to apply.
- ABH is committed to supporting entrepreneurs from all strata of society, ensuring that talent and potential are acknowledged and nurtured.
Testimonial
Dr. Ikpeme Neto, CEO and Founder of Wellahealth Technologies and ABH 2023 First Prize Winner, shared insights on the impact of participating in the ABH Prize Competition:
“Participating in the ABH Prize Competition has been a transformative experience for Wellahealth Technologies, profoundly impacting our journey as a startup.
“ABH not only provided us with financial assistance but also offered unparalleled opportunities for entrepreneurship training, networking, and exposure.
“I urge fellow entrepreneurs across Africa to seize this extraordinary opportunity to enjoy a wealth of benefits that can catalyze growth and success for your ventures.”
Success Stories
Past winners and participants have leveraged the support of ABH to expand their geographic reach, recruit talent, and invest in new products and services, thereby contributing to job creation and economic advancement across Africa.
How to Apply
Applications for Africa’s Business Heroes 2024 are currently open and will be accepted until May 19, 2024.
Interested entrepreneurs can access the application form free of charge on ABH’s official website.
