The Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) competition has returned for its 8th edition, introducing a revamped selection process aimed at expanding opportunities for entrepreneurs across the continent, including Rwanda, according to the event organisers. An initiative of the Jack Ma Foundation, ABH is regarded as one of Africa’s largest and most inclusive entrepreneurship pitch competitions. Since its launch in 2019, it has focused on identifying and supporting outstanding entrepreneurs through funding, mentorship, and global exposure. Applications are open until April 28, with organisers highlighting a key change in the early stages of the competition. For the first time, ABH will select 100 entrepreneurs in the initial round—doubling the previous intake of 50 and offering broader access to the programme. However, the competition also becomes more rigorous at an earlier stage, as only 20 entrepreneurs from the top 100 will advance to the next phase in August following video interviews. ALSO READ: ABH: African entrepreneurs must prioritize continent's market - experts Rational behind expanding ABH first-round selection pool According to Dennis M. Budandi, Program and Events Manager at Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH), the adjustment is designed to strike a deliberate balance between inclusivity and competitiveness. He noted that in previous years, narrowing down to a Top 50 from a pool of more than 32,000 applicants revealed a clear need to expand access for high-potential African entrepreneurs working to solve pressing challenges across the continent. “This year, we are expanding to a Top 100—creating space to recognize and support a broader set of high-impact businesses that are building relevant, scalable solutions across Africa,” he said. “At the same time, we are sharpening the competitive edge earlier in the journey. We are looking for founders who are deeply rooted in their markets—builders who understand local challenges and are translating that insight into meaningful, scalable impact.” Budandi added that for founders in Rwanda, the opportunity is particularly significant. “For entrepreneurs in Rwanda, this is a strong platform to gain continental visibility, unlock funding opportunities, and connect with a dynamic pan-African network of peers, mentors, and investors. If you are building a solution that creates jobs and drives real impact, this is your moment to step forward and represent Rwanda on a continental stage.” ALSO READ: Innovation: Who are the biggest winners at Africa’s Business Heroes Awards 2025? Why it matters Since its inception, ABH has supported dozens of entrepreneurs across Africa, contributing to job creation, business growth, and improved access to funding. With the expansion of the first-round selection pool, this year’s edition presents a wider entry point for innovators tackling Africa’s most pressing challenges. For Rwandan entrepreneurs with established businesses and ambitions to scale, the competition offers winners not just funding, but also access to continental and global opportunities. Diane Mukasahaha, founder of DIKAM Ltd and a top 10 finalist in the previous edition, said the programme goes beyond financial support to reshape how entrepreneurs approach their businesses. “Honestly, I joined this competition not expecting much in terms of financial support at the time. But business people always need mentorship and an ecosystem to learn from, and ABH became the perfect space for me. The most important part is learning how to give every detail of your business the value it deserves,” she said. ALSO READ: The woman powering a new chapter in Rwanda’s textile industry Echoing a similar sentiment, Emmanuel Tuyisenge, founder of Temaco Builders, encouraged entrepreneurs to focus on impact and growth. In the same spirit, Emmanuel Tuyisenge, founder of Temaco Builders, encouraged entrepreneurs to prioritise impact and growth. “It’s not just about applying. I didn’t make it into the top 20, but I learned that growth and impact in your community matter. I encourage fellow African entrepreneurs to apply and take that chance,” he said. Who can apply The competition targets founders running established businesses rather than early-stage ideas. Applicants must be founders or co-founders of a business and be African citizens or direct descendants of African citizens. In addition, their businesses must be registered, headquartered, and primarily based in Africa, with at least three years of revenue demonstrating proven market traction. What’s at stake? Participants stand a chance to win a share of $1.5 million in grant funding, with the top 10 finalists receiving between $100,000 and $300,000 each. The funding is equity-free, allowing winners to retain full ownership of their businesses. Beyond financial support, selected entrepreneurs benefit from international visibility and media exposure, access to global investors and partners, tailored mentorship and training programmes, and entry into a pan-African network of founders. The competition culminates in a high-profile Grand Finale, where finalists pitch their businesses before a global audience of investors, policymakers, and business leaders.
