Africa’s Business Heroes Prize 2026: Up to $300,000 for African Entrepreneurs

The Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) Prize Competition, an initiative of the Jack Ma Foundation, is a pan-African entrepreneurship program that recognizes and supports outstanding entrepreneurs building impactful businesses across the continent. Each year, the competition selects 10 exceptional founders from across Africa who compete in the final round for a share of the $1.5 million grant pool. Beyond funding, the program provides extensive mentorship, global exposure, training, and access to a network of investors, business leaders, and ecosystem partners to help entrepreneurs scale their ventures and create long-term impact.

Benefits 

• Grand Prize: $300,000
• Second Prize: $250,000
• Third Prize: $150,000
• Seven additional finalists: $100,000 each
• Participation in a high-profile pitch competition
• Mentorship and business training from global experts
• Access to the ABH entrepreneurial community and investors
• Global media exposure and networking opportunities

Eligibility 

• Founder or co-founder of a business operating in Africa
• Business must be registered and headquartered in an African country
• Company must have at least 3 years of operational history
• Open to entrepreneurs across all sectors and industries
• Applicant must be an African citizen or business leader operating in Africa