Jack Ma's Africa Netpreneur Prize Initiative (ANPI) has selected regional partners across Western, Northern, and Southern Africa to advance its mission of fostering entrepreneurial growth on the continent. The initiative, backed by the Jack Ma Foundation, aims to identify and support 10 finalists annually for the next decade, offering a total of Sh100 million in prize money.
NIGERIAN organization NINE, EGYPTIAN group RiseUp, and SOUTH AFRICAN entity 22 On Sloane were appointed as regional partners, working alongside Nailab—ANPI's Eastern and continental partner—to promote the prize. These organizations will focus on connecting startups, small businesses, and women-led enterprises with resources and mentorship opportunities.
Sam Gichuru, founder and CEO of Nailab, emphasized the initiative's commitment to supporting both tech-driven and traditional enterprises, particularly grassroots communities. Graca Machel, chair of the Graca Machel Trust and ANPI advisory board member, highlighted the potential of underrepresented entrepreneurs to transform Africa's economic landscape.
The 2019 application period for the prize will run from March 27 to June 30. Finalists will receive grant funding from the Jack Ma Foundation and access to a network of African business leaders. The program's first major event occurred in July 2017, when Jack Ma met with local entrepreneurs during a visit to Kenya.
