Africa’s Business Heroes 2026

About

A competition offering a total prize pool of $1.5 million aimed at early-stage and growth-stage startups in Africa, providing financial grants, mentorship, and networking opportunities to enhance business development and visibility.

Benefits

• 💰Financial Support
  Total prize pool of $1.5 million, with individual grants up to $300,000 available for selected businesses.
• 🎓Mentorship Program
  Access to mentorship and training programs to enhance business skills and strategies.
• 🌐Network Access
  Opportunities for exposure to investors and partners, enhancing business connections.
• 📈Business Support
  Resources and support aimed at fostering business growth and development.
• 🎤Exposure Opportunities
  Top 100 participants will gain visibility with potential investors and partners.

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to entrepreneurs from African countries
• Must be a founder or co-founder of a company with actual operations in Africa
• Targeting early-stage or growth-stage startups across various industries
• Focus on sectors like climate agriculture, digital finance, healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, and emerging technologies

Participation Commitments

• Must submit an application through the official website
• Participation in mentorship and training sessions as required
• Engagement with investors and partners during the program
• Commitment to the competition timeline and requirements as outlined by the organizers.

Target Region

Open to entrepreneurs from African countries

Target Sector

Focus on various sectors including climate agriculture, digital finance, healthcare, logistics, and emerging technologies