10 Grant Opportunities for African Entrepreneurs in 2025

As 2025 unfolds, African entrepreneurs are increasingly recognized as drivers of innovation and economic growth. Grant opportunities continue to play a crucial role in supporting these changemakers. Here are 10 grant opportunities to explore in 2025:

1. The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme

With its mission to empower 10,000 African entrepreneurs over ten years, the TEF program continues to provide $5,000 in seed funding, world-class business training, and mentorship to entrepreneurs across the continent.

Application Period: Opens annually
Eligibility: African entrepreneurs with startups or businesses less than three years old

2. Anzisha Prize for Young Entrepreneurs

The Anzisha Prize remains one of Africa’s most prestigious grants for entrepreneurs aged 15–22. In 2025, it will continue to reward innovative and scalable ventures led by youth.

Application Period: Annually
Eligibility: Entrepreneurs within the age range operating in Africa

3. Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) Prize Competition

Funded by the Jack Ma Foundation, the ABH Prize is one of the largest in Africa, awarding a share of $1.5 million to the top ten entrepreneurs. It also offers mentorship and media exposure.

Application Period: Annually
Eligibility: Entrepreneurs from all sectors operating in Africa

4. African Development Bank (AfDB) Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation Grants

AfDB’s program provides funding to youth entrepreneurs in sectors like agriculture, technology, and renewable energy. Grants range from $20,000 to $50,000.

Application Period: Ongoing
Eligibility: Youth entrepreneurs in AfDB member countries

5. Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP)

The 2025 edition of OSVP continues to focus on supporting tech-based solutions to social and environmental challenges. Winners receive funding, training, and access to Orange’s vast network.

Application Period: Annually
Eligibility: Entrepreneurs in countries where Orange operates in Africa

6. Hult Prize Africa Regional Summit

Dubbed the “Nobel Prize for Students,” the Hult Prize challenges young entrepreneurs to develop solutions to pressing global issues. African teams receive funding and mentoring through the regional summit.

Application Period: Annually
Eligibility: Students and recent graduates from African universities

7. U.S. African Development Foundation (USADF) Grants

USADF continues its commitment to funding community-driven enterprises. Grants in 2025 target projects that promote economic empowerment, especially in underserved and rural communities.

Application Period: Ongoing
Eligibility: Social enterprises and community organizations in Africa

8. Womenpreneur Pitch-a-Ton Africa

Launched by Access Bank, this initiative offers grant and business training to female entrepreneurs across Africa. Winners in 2025 can receive up to $20,000 in grant and free business advisory services.

Application Period: Annually
Eligibility: Women entrepreneurs operating in Africa

9. D-Prize Challenge

D-Prize identifies and funds entrepreneurs who can distribute proven poverty interventions to the people who need them most. Winners receive up to $20,000 in grants.

Application Period: Biannual
Eligibility: Entrepreneurs working in health, agriculture, energy, and education

10. Google for Startups Black Founders Fund Africa

This initiative continues to empower African entrepreneurs with $4 million in equity-free funding, mentorship, and access to Google’s network and technologies.

Application Period: Annually
Eligibility: Black-led tech startups based in Africa

Tips for Securing a Grant in 2025

1. Understand the Criteria: Study each grant’s objectives and tailor your application accordingly.
2. Showcase Innovation: Demonstrate how your business offers unique solutions to pressing problems.
3. Provide Impact Evidence: Highlight measurable outcomes from your business or project.
4. Seek Professional Guidance: Work with mentors or consultants to improve your application.

Conclusion

Grant opportunities in 2025 offer a golden chance for African entrepreneurs to access vital funding and resources. By leveraging these programs, you can transform your ideas into impactful ventures and contribute to Africa’s development.