The Awards
The Categories
Access to Energy
Reliable, affordable and scalable access to energy is foundational to economic transformation across Africa. This award recognises innovative, private sector projects that significantly advance access to the electricity that households, agriculture and industry require to boost livelihoods, output and jobs. We are also looking for solutions that use advanced technologies, financing and/or risk mitigation mechanisms to demonstrably boost energy efficiency, optimisation and storage, whether at the level of the power grid or further down the value chain. Open to initiatives with a minimum annual revenue of US$5mn or serving at least 50,000 households/connections.
Critical Infrastructure (non-Energy)
This award highlights transformative, private sector initiatives that build or modernise the essential infrastructure required for Africa’s economic development, including transport, logistics, tourism, water and sanitation, healthcare and digital connectivity. We are looking for initiatives that demonstrate creative financing and risk mitigation strategies, catalyse investment, build local capacity, and generate quality jobs across these vital sectors. Special attention will be given to projects that improve healthcare value chains, deepen the resilience of digital infrastructure and networks, and expand connectivity in remote communities. Open to initiatives with a minimum annual revenue of US$4mn.
Agribusiness
This award recognises outstanding innovation in African agribusiness that transforms farming, significantly boosts food production, and actively builds vibrant, sustainable rural economies. We are looking for projects that effectively integrate local businesses and smallholder farmers into robust value chains that help smallholders move from subsistence to surplus, while generating substantial re-investment and skilled employment. The focus is also on initiatives that improve market links and access to finance and digital tools for farmers and SMEs across the food sector, boosting productivity and fostering greater self-reliance. Open to initiatives with a minimum annual revenue of US$1mn.
Manufacturing Champions
This award celebrates manufacturing leaders across Africa that are significantly driving job creation and transforming local economies and communities. We are looking for operationally strong initiatives that promote technology transfer and skills development, and effectively integrate local suppliers and businesses into resilient value chains. Special attention will be given to scalable projects that showcase sustainable manufacturing practices, attract investment, and contribute to the growth of competitive, localised industrial ecosystems, reducing reliance on imports and ultimately leading to greater self-sufficiency and shared prosperity. We particularly welcome manufacturing initiatives that help Africa build its pharma production and value chains. Open to initiatives with a minimum annual revenue of US$4mn.
Judges Award for Excellence
This prize recognises the initiative that, in the opinion of the judging panel, stands apart among the winners of all core categories for its level of innovation, impact, replicability, financial viability, and sustainability in the context of Africa’s development.
Innovation Showcase
This special category is designed to highlight ground-breaking early stage projects in Africa that have the potential, with additional funding, to have a transformative impact in sectors core to economic development. We welcome innovative and dynamic entrepreneurial initiatives, with a solid path to profitability, that promise breakthrough solutions to some of the thorniest challenges facing Africa. Special attention will be given to projects that are scalable and will generate significant growth and skilled jobs in local economies, particularly among Africa’s youth. No minimum annual revenue criteria.
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