Applications, nominations now open, $100,000 up for grabs

According to media reports, the 6th Anzisha Prize application phase is now open, and the search is on to find 12 of Africa’s youngest, most innovative social and business entrepreneurs under the age of 22.

Innovation Village reports that organisers are calling for more nominations from the public this year to ensure they discover the very best talent on the continent.

African Leadership Academy (ALA) and The MasterCard Foundation – co-hosts of the Anzisha Prize – have also announced a significant increase in the support available to selected entrepreneurs over the next five years.

Each of the 12 finalists will now receive a $7,500 USD fellowship package with the ALA’s Youth Entrepreneur Support Unit (YES-U) which includes the Anzisha Week boot camp, mentorship and consulting services, travel opportunities to network and business equipment. Not bad at all if you ask me.

In addition, there is a new $25,000 prize category to recognize Anzisha Fellows who have created social and economic value through their ventures by effectively leveraging the opportunities provided by the fellowship with ALA.

This means the total prize money is a princely $100,000 USD annually. The Grand Prize Winner will take home $25,000 USD, 1st Runner-up $15,000 USD and 2nd Runner-up $12,500 USD. The nine finalists left will receive $2,500 USD each.

“It is essential that we nurture young, African entrepreneurial talent if we want to see the economic gains we all hope for in the future,” says Program Manager for the Anzisha Prize at The MasterCard Foundation, Koffi Assouan. “Through the provision of leadership skills, access to finance and business networking opportunities, these young entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to reach their full potential and to improve their lives and the lives of others.”

Any African national under the age of 22 with an active project, social venture or for-profit business based on the continent is eligible for the prize.

“The true impact of our work is only possible if we can find the top entrepreneurial potential wherever it may be,” says Grace Kalisha, Manager of the Anzisha Program at African Leadership Academy, “If anyone out there has seen or heard of young people running amazing projects or businesses, we want to hear from you!”

Applications will close on 15 April 2016. Both paper and electronic applications are accepted.