Applications are now open for the Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) Competition 2026, offering African entrepreneurs the opportunity to win a share of $1.5 million in grant funding to scale their businesses and drive impact across the continent.
Organised by Africa’s Business Heroes, this flagship programme—backed by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy—has become one of Africa’s most competitive and visible platforms for supporting entrepreneurs.
Why this opportunity matters
Across Africa, entrepreneurs are solving real problems—from agriculture and healthcare to fintech and climate innovation. However, many lack access to capital, visibility, and the right networks to scale.
The Africa’s Business Heroes competition goes beyond funding. It provides a platform that amplifies African founders, connects them to investors and mentors, and equips them with the tools needed to build sustainable, high-impact businesses.
Eligibility criteria
Applicants must be founders or co-founders of a business that is registered, headquartered, and primarily operating in an African country.
They must be African citizens or direct descendants of African citizens and must demonstrate at least three years of business traction, including revenue and market presence.
The competition is open to entrepreneurs across all sectors and age groups, as long as their businesses show clear impact and growth potential.
Benefits of the program
Selected finalists will compete for a share of $1.5 million in grant funding, with the overall winner receiving up to $300,000.
Beyond funding, participants gain access to high-level mentorship from global business leaders, tailored training in areas such as financial management and investment readiness, and exposure through extensive media coverage.
Finalists also join an exclusive pan-African network of entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts, creating long-term opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Program Structure
The competition follows a multi-stage process, starting with application review and progressing through interviews, due diligence, and semi-final pitches.
Top applicants advance through each stage, with 10 finalists ultimately selected to pitch at the Grand Finale for a share of the funding.
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