Young Entrepreneurs Can Now Apply For The Anzisha Prize 2018

Applications for the Anzisha Prize 2018 has been launched.  Africa’s most innovative social and business entrepreneurs under the age of 22 are encouraged as they have the opportunity to win a share of US$100,000, connect to a global network of leaders, and receive business consulting support.

The Anzisha Prize program is a partnership between African Leadership Academy and Mastercard Foundation that was established in 2011.

Melissa Mbazo, The Programs Manager for Anzisha Prize said: “The Anzisha Prize has been running for more than five years and we are at a stage where we can showcase the success of very young entrepreneurs so they can serve as relatable and reachable examples to their peers. A key goal for the Anzisha Prize is to celebrate the power of youth-led businesses in Africa to create jobs and viable livelihoods. Identifying and telling the stories of successful, relevant and young African entrepreneurs will inspire youth across the African continent.”

For Koffi Assouan, Program Manager, Mastercard Foundation, he said: “The Anzisha Prize has significantly invested in the transformative power of African youth. “It is exciting to see these young entrepreneurs ignite the entrepreneurial spirit in their peers as they share their compelling and inspirational stories about the impact their ventures has had on their families and communities.”

What you need to know about the Anzisha Prize

• The prize is open to any African national between the ages of 15 and 22 who has founded or co-founded a currently operational social venture or for-profit business in any sector in Africa.
• The grand prize winner will take home $25,000, the first runner-up will receive $15,000 and second runner-up will receive $12,500.
• Judging criteria includes a commitment by applicants to grow their venture into a job-creation engine that contributes to their community. Additional criteria can be found in the application materials.
• Applications close on 31 March 2018 and the Prize tour will commence prior to the deadline.

The Anzisha Prize seeks to award young entrepreneurs who have developed and implemented innovative solutions to social challenges or started successful businesses within their communities. 15 finalists from across Africa win a spot in a lifelong fellowship that will help to accelerate their path to entrepreneurship success.