Applications Open for the Anzisha Venture Building Fellowship 2026 (Africa)

Application Deadline: November 07, 2025

The Anzisha Venture Building Fellowship is now accepting applications for its 2026 cycle, offering an exceptional opportunity for Africa’s youngest entrepreneurs to scale their ventures and amplify their impact. Regarded as Africa’s biggest award for young entrepreneurs aged 15 to 22, the Anzisha Prize awards over $140,000 annually in business development support, educational programs, and prize funding to innovative young changemakers across the continent.

This prestigious fellowship is designed to identify and support outstanding young entrepreneurs who are already running small businesses that generate income and create job opportunities within their communities. It aims to nurture the next generation of African business leaders who are transforming ideas into sustainable ventures and inspiring others to do the same.

Empowering Africa’s Young Entrepreneurs

Since its inception, Anzisha has championed more than 290 very young entrepreneurs from across Africa. These fellows represent diverse industries — from agriculture and education to technology and creative arts — but share one mission: driving Africa’s economic transformation through youth-led innovation.

The fellowship provides a structured two-year journey focused on business growth and personal development. Participants gain access to a robust support system that includes expert mentorship, leadership training, funding opportunities, and tailored resources to help scale their ventures.

Throughout the program, the Anzisha team tracks each entrepreneur’s progress, business performance, and leadership evolution. Those who demonstrate exceptional growth, innovation, and impact stand a chance to win additional prizes and business support packages.

Exclusive Benefits of the Fellowship

The Anzisha Venture Building Fellowship offers numerous opportunities to help young entrepreneurs achieve sustainable business growth:

• Cash Stipends: Fellows receive bi-annual financial support to help stabilize and expand their ventures.
• Tailored Training: Short-term educational programs equip fellows with essential entrepreneurial, leadership, and management skills.
• Technical Expertise: Participants receive access to professional consultants and industry specialists to enhance business systems and processes.
• Internships and Networking: Fellows connect with a growing network of like-minded entrepreneurs, mentors, and investors across Africa.
• End-of-Program Awards: At the conclusion of the two-year program, fellows present their business progress and compete for prizes totaling $40,000, awarded across four categories:
  • Job Creation Prize – recognizing businesses creating employment opportunities.
  • Revenue Growth Prize – for ventures showing consistent and significant revenue growth.
  • Storytelling Prize – for effective communication and brand storytelling.
  • Integrating Systems and Processes Prize – rewarding operational excellence and innovation.

Upon graduation, fellows join the Anzisha Alumni Network, gaining lifelong access to resources, mentorship, and visibility opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria

The Anzisha Fellowship is open to young entrepreneurs aged 15 to 22 who are nationals of an African country. Applicants must have a legally registered business operating within Africa and serving African customers or communities.

Key requirements include:

• Proof of identity and nationality from an African country.
• A running business or venture with clear, measurable results.
• Demonstrated leadership in running the enterprise.
• Commitment to dedicating at least 20 hours per week to managing the venture.

The fellowship welcomes applications from all sectors — agriculture, technology, education, fashion, health, and more — provided that the business demonstrates a tangible positive impact.

Selection Process

Applications are evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Venture Viability: The strength and sustainability of the business model.
• Leadership Capacity: The founder’s ability to lead, inspire, and manage their team effectively.
• Impact and Reach: The measurable social or economic impact of the venture, including job creation.
• Revenue and Growth Potential: Evidence of steady growth and market traction.

Successful candidates will be invited to participate in an intensive program that fosters entrepreneurial discipline, innovation, and resilience.

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Conclusion

The Anzisha Venture Building Fellowship 2026 is not just an award — it is a movement that celebrates youth-led entrepreneurship and invests in Africa’s most promising innovators. By empowering young people with resources, mentorship, and capital, Anzisha continues to play a pivotal role in transforming Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Aspiring entrepreneurs who are already running small but impactful businesses have the chance to receive substantial support, visibility, and recognition. This is an opportunity to be part of a growing network of young leaders shaping the future of Africa.

For more information and to apply,CLICK HERE