Following a groundbreaking 6th Summit and Grand Finale in Kigali, Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH), the flagship philanthropic initiative of the Jack Ma Foundation in Africa, has officially launched its 2025 Call for Applications. This year, ABH is broadening its impact by actively encouraging entrepreneurs from historically underrepresented regions, particularly Francophone and Central Africa, to apply.
Record-Breaking Diversity in 2024
Last year, ABH witnessed unprecedented diversity among applicants:
Women comprised 39% of total applicants, with female entrepreneurs making up 60% of the Top 10 finalists.
A finalist from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) reached the Top 10 for the first time, marking a major milestone for Central Africa.
Senegal’s Henri Ousmane Gueye became the first Francophone entrepreneur to win the Grand Prize, a historic achievement for Francophone Africa.
Now in its 7th edition, ABH remains committed to recognizing and empowering visionary African entrepreneurs who drive meaningful change in their communities.
Why Apply? Unmatched Benefits for African Entrepreneurs
ABH finalists receive extensive support to propel their businesses forward. The Top 10 finalists share $1.5 million in grant funding, with the grand prize winner receiving $300,000, the first runner-up $250,000, and the second runner-up $150,000. Each of the remaining finalists secures $100,000, plus an additional $100,000 for global immersion training.
Beyond funding, finalists benefit from unparalleled media exposure, mentorship, and access to an exclusive network of Africa’s most influential business leaders, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs. They gain strategic insights, high-level networking opportunities, and invaluable feedback from industry veterans to refine their business strategies and long-term growth plans.
A Testament to Resilience and Perseverance
ABH Managing Director for Africa, Zahra Baitie-Boateng, underscored the resilience required to thrive in entrepreneurship, citing standout stories from the 2024 competition. “Henri Ousmane Gueye from Senegal won the Grand Prize on his third attempt, and Alexander Odhiambo from Kenya, our second runner-up, applied twice before reaching the Top 10. Their journeys are a powerful reminder that success at ABH isn’t just about taking home the prize. It’s about resilience - the courage to keep showing up, to learn, to grow and to keep believing in your vision even when the odds are tough. That’s the true spirit of entrepreneurship, and exactly what ABH celebrates.”
Eligibility Criteria
ABH invites applications from entrepreneurs across all industries and African nations. To qualify, applicants must be the founder or co-founder of a business that is registered, headquartered, and primarily operating in Africa. They must be African citizens or direct descendants and have at least three years of revenue with demonstrated market traction.
Application Process
ABH provides valuable learning experiences at every stage of the competition. Applications undergo a rigorous review in the first round, leading to the selection of the Top 50 candidates. These finalists advance to in-depth interviews with experienced business leaders, who evaluate their potential and narrow the pool to the Top 20.
After a due diligence process, the Top 20 advance to the Semi-Final, where they pitch live to a distinguished panel of judges. The Top 10 finalists emerge from this round and compete in the Grand Finale, where they present their businesses in a live pitch competition for a share of the $1.5 million grant funding.
How to Apply
Entrepreneurs eager to seize this opportunity can begin their application by registering at ABH website and confirming their eligibility. The application process includes detailing their business model, vision, and future plans, as well as submitting a reference and a video introduction. African business leaders are encouraged to take this bold step toward funding, mentorship, and game-changing exposure.
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