The “Africa’s Business Heroes” (ABH) prize competition, one of the Jack Ma Foundation’s flagship philanthropic programs spotlighting and celebrating Africa’s entrepreneurial talent, has opened applications for its fourth annual edition.
Entrepreneurs from all 54 African countries can now submit their applications, in either English or French, for a chance to become one of the top 10 finalists.
At the grand finale later this year, they will take the stage to present their businesses to a panel of business legends to win a share of the $1,5-million grant.
The journey to the finale will also include access to a community of international leaders and innovators, industry experts, investors and accelerators, as well multi-disciplinary boot camps and training sessions to help the finalists take their businesses to the next level.
The three-episode series for the ABH 2021 competition will follow the journeys of the top 10 finalists from 2021 as they geared up for the grand finale.
The show aims to provide a masterclass in entrepreneurship, as audiences can see first-hand how the top entrepreneurs from across Africa refined their final pitches and faced tough questions from legendary business figures.
“I was beyond proud to have been named the winner of the 2021 ABH competition,” says Khadija Mohamed Elbedweihy, founder of PraxiLabs. “I hope that my win inspires many people across Africa to feel that they can make a difference and be impactful.
“I learned so much throughout the competition and will take those learnings to continue growing PraxiLabs. We will remain focused and determined to change how Africa learns and teaches science, one virtual lab at a time,.”
Zahra Baitie, head of partnerships and programs at ABH, comments: “Entrepreneurship in Africa is experiencing a strong upward trajectory and it is so encouraging to see. But there are still so many entrepreneurs whose inspiring stories and impactful businesses need a spotlight, and who could benefit from additional support.
“The Africa’s Business Heroes prize competition is encouraging extraordinarily talented entrepreneurs from all 54 African countries, across every single sector, age group, and gender to apply in either English or French for a chance to win their share of a $1.5 million grant, access to training, mentorship, and more.
“We want to enable entrepreneurs that are not only building successful businesses, but who are also running mission driven organisations that generate growth for their local communities across Africa. If this sounds like you, join the Africa’s Business Heroes prize competition today. It’s African Time.”