Applications are now open for the fourth year of the Africa’s Business Heroes competition, which annually awards 10 outstanding entrepreneurs from across Africa with a share of a US$1.5 million grant.

The Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH( competition is the flagship philanthropic initiative spearheaded by the Jack Ma Foundation aimed at supporting and inspiring the next generation of African entrepreneurs across all sectors.

Over a ten-year period, ABH will recognise 100 African entrepreneurs and commit to allocating grant funding, training programmes, and support for the development of a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Entrepreneurs from all 54 African countries, across every sector, age group, and gender are now able to submit their applications, in either French and English, for a chance to become one of the 10 finalists for the fourth edition of the challenge. The official slogan of the competition, “It’s African Time”, is a bold call to action to all talented African entrepreneurs who are challenging stereotypes associated with “African time” – creating local impact and building a better, more inclusive future through their businesses.

At the grand finale later this year, 10 finalists will take the stage to present their businesses to a panel of business legends to win a share of the US$1.5 million grant. The journey to the final will also include access to a community of international leaders and innovators, industry experts, investors and accelerators, as well multi-disciplinary bootcamps and training sessions to help the finalists take their businesses to the next level.

“Entrepreneurship in Africa is experiencing a strong upward trajectory and it is so encouraging to see. But there are still so many entrepreneurs whose inspiring stories and impactful businesses need a spotlight, and who could benefit from additional support,” said Zahra Baitie, head of partnerships and programmes at ABH.

“We want to enable entrepreneurs that are not only building successful businesses, but who are also running mission driven organisations that generate growth for their local communities across Africa. If this sounds like you, join the Africa’s Business Heroes prize competition today. It’s African Time.”