Applications are now open for the 15th edition of the Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP) in Africa and the Middle East, a prestigious initiative designed to foster social innovation and promote entrepreneurship across the region. Since its inception in 2011, the OSVP has been dedicated to recognizing and rewarding innovative startup projects that leverage new technologies to create a positive impact in various sectors, including education, healthcare, e-commerce, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. This initiative aims to empower entrepreneurs who are committed to addressing social challenges and driving meaningful change within their communities.
The 15th edition of the prize invites submissions from candidates representing the 17 countries within the Orange footprint in the region. The competition is structured in two distinct stages. The first stage is a national phase, during which applications will be collected until May. From this pool, three winners will be selected from each of the 17 subsidiaries. These national winners will then advance to the international stage, where they will compete for the prestigious International Grand Prize and the International Women’s Prize.
In October, a distinguished jury composed of prominent figures from the technology and entrepreneurship sectors in Africa and the Middle East will convene to evaluate the submissions. This jury will be tasked with selecting the three winners of the International Grand Prize, as well as the recipient of the OSVP International Women’s Prize, from among the 15 projects that have been shortlisted by employees of the Orange Group.
The rewards for the winners are substantial, with the first prize winner receiving EUR 25,000 (approximately USD 27,000), the second prize winner awarded EUR 15,000 (around USD 16,000), and the third prize winner granted EUR 10,000 (about USD 11,000). Additionally, the winner of the International Women’s Prize will receive EUR 20,000 (approximately USD 22,000).
This initiative not only provides financial support but also offers valuable recognition and visibility for the winning projects, further encouraging the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa and the Middle East.
Applications are open here until May 18.
