Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Anzisha Prize Fellowship Program, Africa’s leading platform recognizing the continent’s youngest innovators. The initiative celebrates exceptional entrepreneurs aged 15 to 22, distributing over USD 140,000 each year in financial awards and business development support. Those who apply stand a chance to receive a share of over USD 50,000 in grand prizes and access to resources that can help their ventures expand. The fellowship aims to empower young Africans who are driving economic growth and job creation across the continent.

The Anzisha Fellowship functions as a two-year venture-building program designed to support and reward early-stage entrepreneurs. For more than 15 years, it has nurtured hundreds of young business founders across Africa. Throughout the fellowship, participants receive guidance, mentorship, and performance tracking to measure their business growth and leadership progress. Entrepreneurs who demonstrate strong results and initiative are offered additional benefits such as specialized courses, cloud-based services, and financial stipends.

At the end of the two-year period, fellows are invited to present their business achievements and compete for a total of USD 40,000 in grand prizes. These awards recognize excellence across four categories — job creation, revenue growth, storytelling, and the effective integration of systems and processes. Upon completion of the program, all fellows officially graduate and become part of the Anzisha Alumni Network, joining a community of driven young leaders shaping the future of African entrepreneurship.

The program targets young Africans who have already launched small businesses or social projects that provide income and opportunities for themselves and others. Eligible applicants must be between 15 and 22 years old, with valid identification such as a national ID or passport. Only individuals born between 1 September 2003 and 31 August 2010 qualify for consideration. Candidates must be citizens of an African country, and their ventures must operate within the continent and serve African communities.

The fellowship is not intended for untested business ideas or theoretical plans — applicants are expected to have already started their ventures and to present tangible outcomes. Projects from any field, including technology, science, arts, sports, and community development, are welcome. Applicants must also be founding members actively involved in running their ventures, typically working at least 20 hours a week on their projects.

Throughout the fellowship, participants may receive biannual financial stipends, short-term educational placements, and consultations with technical experts. In the second year, special awards are granted to outstanding fellows — those who have created the most employment opportunities, achieved significant revenue growth, shared their entrepreneurial journey through creative storytelling, or effectively applied new systems to strengthen their business models.

When assessing ventures, the selection panel focuses on the value offered to customers or beneficiaries, the leadership of the founder, measurable impact, existing or potential revenue, and job creation. Successful candidates are those who lead their ventures strategically and operationally and demonstrate the potential to expand their impact with Anzisha’s continued support.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity