Africa’s Business Heroes opens 2026 applications with $1.5m in grant funding
The initiative, the flagship philanthropic programme of Alibaba Philanthropy and the Jack Ma Foundation, is calling for applications from founders building businesses across the continent. The 2026 edition is themed “Defining Africa’s Future Today”.
Each year, ABH awards $1.5m in grant funding to 10 entrepreneurs. Shortlisted candidates also gain access to training, mentorship and a pan-African network of peers, investors and ecosystem partners.
In 2026, the programme plans to conduct on-the-ground engagement in 10 African markets, with a focus on countries that have historically been underrepresented among its Top 10 finalists, including Namibia, Tunisia and Zambia. Activities will include community events, workshops and founder engagement sessions.
ABH will also expand its recognition pool this year by naming a Top 100 finalists list, instead of a Top 50, reflecting increased interest in the competition. Since its launch in 2019, annual applications have grown from about 10,000 to more than 30,000.
The seventh edition concluded in December 2025, with Diana Orembe of Tanzania, co-founder and chief executive of NovFeed, named the overall winner. Her company converts organic waste into protein for animal feed.
Applications are open to founders who are citizens or legal residents of an African country, lead a registered business headquartered in Africa, have at least three years of demonstrated traction and show a commitment to societal impact. The competition is sector-agnostic.
Apply here.