Are you a young African entrepreneur with an innovative idea that has already started making an impact? The Anzisha Prize Fellowship Program 2026 for Young African Entrepreneurs offers a life-changing opportunity to scale your business and earn your share of USD $140,000 in cash prizes and business support.
This fully funded program is dedicated to celebrating, mentoring, and empowering young entrepreneurs across Africa who are building ventures that create jobs and drive economic growth.
Anzisha Prize Fellowship Program 2026
For over 15 years, the Anzisha Prize has been Africa’s most prestigious platform for recognizing and investing in young business leaders between 15 and 22 years old. The program is jointly supported by the African Leadership Academy (ALA) and the Mastercard Foundation, with a mission to champion Africa’s youngest innovators who are creating solutions to everyday problems while generating income and employment for others.
The Anzisha Prize Fellowship Program 2026 is not a typical business competition. It is a two-year venture-building fellowship that focuses on helping entrepreneurs grow sustainable businesses. It offers structured mentorship, training, financial stipends, and networking opportunities. Throughout the fellowship, each participant’s progress and business growth are closely tracked and rewarded through performance-based prizes.
Anzisha Prize Fellowship Program 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Organization | Anzisha Prize (African Leadership Academy & Mastercard Foundation) |
| Program Duration | Two Years |
| Fellowship Type | Entrepreneurship & Business Growth |
| Eligible Regions | All African Countries |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Total Prize Value | USD $140,000 |
| Individual Cash Awards | Over USD $50,000 shared among top-performing fellows |
| Application Deadline | November 7, 2025 |
| Age Limit | 15 – 22 years |
| Academic Level | Young entrepreneurs or early-stage founders |
| Business Requirement | Must have an existing business with measurable results |
| Program Start Date | 2026 |
What Is the Anzisha Prize Fellowship All About?
The Anzisha Prize Fellowship Program 2026 is designed to identify, support, and reward very young entrepreneurs who are actively creating employment opportunities in Africa. Rather than focusing on business ideas, Anzisha seeks real businesses that are already in operation and generating measurable impact.
The fellowship provides a two-year journey of growth, where participants receive business development training, mentorship, and funding to help them expand their ventures. During this time, Anzisha tracks key performance metrics such as business revenue, job creation, innovation, and leadership development.
By the end of the program, the top-performing fellows compete for grand prizes worth over $40,000, distributed across four main award categories:
- Job Creation Prize: For the fellow who has generated the most employment since joining the fellowship.
- Revenue Growth Prize: For the entrepreneur who achieves the highest business revenue growth.
- Storytelling Prize: For the fellow who most effectively communicates their business story through various media.
- Systems and Processes Prize: For the entrepreneur who best integrates systems learned during the fellowship to improve business operations.
Ultimately, the fellowship aims to build a community of resilient young business leaders capable of transforming Africa’s economic landscape.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To be eligible for the Anzisha Prize Fellowship Program 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age Requirement: Must be between 15 and 22 years old at the time of application. Applicants must provide a valid ID or passport as proof of age.
- Citizenship: Must be a national of an African country.
- Business Location: The business must be based in Africa and serve African customers or beneficiaries.
- Existing Business: Applicants must already have a running business, invention, or social enterprise. The Anzisha Prize is not for mere ideas or proposals.
- Founding Role: Applicants must be among the founders of the business (solo founders or co-founders).
- Industry: Ventures from any field are eligible, including science, technology, arts, culture, sports, agriculture, civil society, or other sectors.
- Commitment: Applicants must dedicate at least 20 hours per week to managing their business operations.
Benefits of the Anzisha Prize Fellowship Program 2026
The Anzisha Prize offers far more than just funding; it is a comprehensive empowerment platform. Selected fellows receive:
- Fully Funded Fellowship Support
- Flight and accommodation costs for any physical engagements are covered.
- Regular bi-annual stipends throughout the fellowship.
- Access to Training and Mentorship
- Fellows participate in business strategy workshops, leadership training, and short professional courses.
- Access to experienced mentors and technical experts who guide business expansion.
- Cash Prizes and Recognition
- Over USD $140,000 distributed across fellows and winners.
- Up to $40,000 in grand prizes for top-performing fellows at the end of the program.
- Networking Opportunities
- Connection to the Anzisha Alumni Network, which includes hundreds of successful African entrepreneurs.
- Exposure to investors, business leaders, and potential collaborators.
- Growth Tracking and Rewards
- Performance-based rewards that recognize job creation, business revenue growth, storytelling, and innovation.
Judging Criteria
Applications are reviewed based on five critical factors to identify truly outstanding young entrepreneurs:
- Established Business Presence: The venture must already have customers or beneficiaries and provide clear value.
- Founder-Led Operations: The applicant must be the key decision-maker actively leading the business.
- Evidence of Impact: The venture should show measurable results, such as revenue generation or job creation.
- Growth Potential: The business must demonstrate potential for expansion, scalability, or increased social impact.
- Job Creation: Preference is given to businesses that have already created jobs or show potential to employ more people.
How to Apply for the Anzisha Prize Fellowship Program 2026
Here is the step-by-step guide to successfully applying for the program:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to the official Anzisha Prize Fellowship webpage to access the application portal and review full program details.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Before applying, prepare all required materials such as:
- Valid ID or passport
- Proof of business registration (if applicable)
- Evidence of business activity (photos, website, financial summary, etc.)
- Short description of your business goals and achievements
Step 3: Submit the Application
Complete the online application form accurately. Include all the requested information about your venture and its impact.
Step 4: Shortlisting and Interviews
Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an interview or to submit additional materials for review.
Step 5: Final Selection
Successful candidates will be announced and officially inducted into the Anzisha Fellowship 2026 cohort.
Application Deadline: November 7, 2025
Why Apply for the Anzisha Prize Fellowship Program 2026?
The Anzisha Prize is more than a competition; it’s a transformative experience for young entrepreneurs who are passionate about growth, innovation, and impact. Here are reasons why you should apply:
- Access to Funding: Gain financial support to scale your venture and achieve your business goals.
- Skill Development: Receive professional mentorship and business management training.
- Visibility: Get featured across Anzisha’s platforms and media partners across Africa.
- Network Growth: Connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and potential investors.
- Sustainability: Learn strategies to build long-term, scalable businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Anzisha Prize Fellowship Program 2026?
It is a fully funded, two-year fellowship designed to support young African entrepreneurs (ages 15 – 22) who have already started businesses that create jobs and generate income.
Is the program fully funded?
Yes. The Anzisha Prize Fellowship covers all participation costs and offers bi-annual stipends, mentorship, and access to cash prizes.
How much funding can I receive?
Participants can access over USD $140,000 in total funding and prize support, with individual awards reaching up to $40,000 for top performers.
Can I apply if I only have a business idea?
No. Only existing businesses with measurable results are eligible.
What types of businesses are eligible?
All types, including social enterprises, technology startups, creative industries, agriculture, and community-based ventures.
For more information and to apply, visit the official website: https://anzishaprize.org
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