The Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) Prize Competition, a philanthropic initiative under the auspices of the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy, is making significant strides in empowering African entrepreneurs. Recently, ABH hosted 40 participants in Hangzhou, China, from April 20-27, providing them an exclusive, hands-on experience at Alibaba’s headquarters. This event included the top 10 Heroes, finalists, and partners from various African nations.

Participants delved into various aspects of the digital economy during their stay. The agenda featured in-depth sessions on cloud computing, AI-driven logistics, and the unique model of e-commerce villages. Through workshops and site visits, the entrepreneurs gained insights aimed at propelling their businesses to new heights. Moreover, they explored collaborative opportunities and exchanged knowledge with prominent business leaders from Alibaba and among themselves.

Diarra Bousso, Founder & Creative Director of Diarrablu and a top 10 Hero from 2020, reflected on her experience: “This trip was so inspiring in so many ways. Meeting all these top entrepreneurs from Africa and understanding the vision behind Alibaba’s success was like a dream come true.”

In an exciting development for upcoming entrepreneurs, ABH has extended the application deadline for its 2024 competition from May 19 to June 9. This extension is designed to accommodate a greater number of aspiring participants. Those making it to the top 50 will have access to an array of resources, including training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, along with a supportive community of fellow business leaders. The competition promises US$1.5 million in grant funding, with the first prize winner receiving US$300,000. Entrepreneurs can apply or be nominated through the competition’s website at Apply Now or Nominate.

Throughout the year, ABH is also conducting information sessions and community events across the continent to facilitate the application process and nurture an entrepreneurial ecosystem. These sessions have already been held in countries including South Africa, Kenya, Zambia, Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire, with more planned in Egypt, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Senegal.

Since its inception, ABH has accepted applications from entrepreneurs in all 54 African countries. The competition is open to individuals from any sector and celebrates diversity in entrepreneurship without regard to age or gender. Applications can be submitted in either English or French.

As the ABH Prize Competition continues to grow, it remains a beacon of opportunity for African entrepreneurs eager to expand their horizons and impact the global market. Through such initiatives, the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy are contributing to a dynamic and prosperous future for Africa.