Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) has officially launched its 2024 edition of the annual business pitch competition, aimed at supporting and celebrating entrepreneurs across the continent. Sponsored by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy, the ABH prize competition seeks to highlight, train, and reward Africa’s most innovative business minds.
Speaking at a roadshow in Lagos, Ms Anysie Ishimwe, a Community Development and Management Consultant for ABH, emphasized the importance of the Nigerian entrepreneurial market to the initiative. She explained that ABH is on a mission to empower 100 African Business Heroes to inspire millions of other entrepreneurs, ultimately building a more inclusive economy for the future.
Since its inception in 2019, the ABH prize competition has featured 10 entrepreneur finalists each year, pitching their businesses for a chance to win a share of US$1.5 million in grant money. Applicants from all 54 African countries are eligible to apply, as long as they meet the strict criteria set by ABH.
Nigeria has consistently stood out in the ABH programme, with 9 finalists among the top 10 winners in previous years. These Nigerian entrepreneurs have collectively received over US$1,345,000 in grants, showcasing the country’s innovation and entrepreneurial spirit.
Applications for the ABH 2024 edition are now open until May 19, 2024. Winners of the competition stand to receive substantial grant money, with the overall goal of fostering growth and development within the African business community. To apply and learn more about ABH 2024, visit africabusinessheroes.org/en/register.