Everything you need to know for a successful ABH 2025 application—documents, videos, deadlines & best practices.
ABH 2025 Application Guidelines
ABH 2025 Application Guide is your strategic map to conquering one of Africa’s most prestigious entrepreneurial competitions—Africa’s Business Heroes. If you’re a passionate founder ready to scale your impact, then knowing exactly how to approach this opportunity can be the difference between submission and selection.
Let’s dive deep into what it takes to make your ABH 2025 application stand out from the crowd.
What is ABH 2025?
Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) is not just a competition—it’s a platform to catapult Africa’s brightest entrepreneurial minds onto a global stage. Each year, ABH awards transformative funding and support to entrepreneurs making a difference in their communities.
Backed by the Jack Ma Foundation, ABH celebrates businesses that combine innovation, resilience, and social impact.
Why Apply for ABH 2025?
Think beyond the prize money. ABH opens doors to mentorship, visibility, and lifelong networking opportunities. Whether you walk away with a trophy or just the experience, every applicant receives exposure to valuable feedback and international attention.
Application Deadline & Flexibility
The final submission deadline is May 23, 2025. That’s your D-day. However, you can revisit and revise your application as often as you need before hitting submit. The platform saves your progress—so no pressure to perfect it all in one go.
How to Access and Edit Your Application
Once you register, you’ll have a personal dashboard. From here, you can start your application, save your answers, return to unfinished sections, and even download a version for offline editing. This ensures you remain in control of your pace.
Understanding the Six Sections
The application has six distinct parts, each crafted to help the judges understand your business holistically. These sections assess your market, solution, team, financials, and impact. Don’t skim any part—each section carries weight.
Why You Should Start Early
Procrastination may be the thief of time, but it’s also the assassin of great applications. Start now. Break down the form into manageable chunks. You’ll thank yourself when others are scrambling to finish.
How to Download the Application Form
Offline editing? No problem. Download the form directly from the portal, review questions ahead of time, and brainstorm responses without internet pressure.
What You Must Upload
You’ll need the following key documents:
- Government-issued personal ID (passport, national ID, or voter’s card)
- Business license or registration
- Proof of operation for 3+ years if unregistered (bank statements, rental agreements, etc.)
Clear, legible, and authentic—these are your document commandments.
Importance of the Founder Video
Your story, your voice. This is what the founder video captures. It’s your moment to shine, to inspire, and to showcase authenticity. Don’t worry about professional lighting—clarity and conviction matter more.
Tips for Filming on a Budget
Use a smartphone. Natural lighting. A quiet room. Speak from the heart. Script a rough outline, but don’t read off a paper—just be you.
Translation and Subtitle Rules
If your video includes other languages, add English or French subtitles or translate what’s being said verbally. Make your message accessible to all.
Tackling the Easy Questions First
There’s no need to answer everything in order. Start with what you know—momentum matters. Skip tricky parts and revisit later.
Identifying Required Questions
Look out for the asterisks (*). These indicate mandatory fields. They must be completed to submit, but not necessarily on your first try.
The Top Things to Include
- Your motivation
- Your measurable impact
- Customer validation
- Financial clarity
- Team competence
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Skipping mandatory questions
- Uploading blurry documents
- Leaving out the founder video
- Using technical jargon without explanation
What Makes a Compelling Founder Video?
Grit, vision, and purpose. Don’t just state facts—tell a story. How did you start? What have you overcome? Why are you in it?
The Power of Real Stories
A 30-second video from a grateful customer can trump a hundred-word testimonial. Let your buyers speak for you.
Showing Off Your Team Culture
Your team is your backbone. Show their energy, collaboration, and purpose. Introduce faces, not just names.
What Financial Data Might Be Needed
Have these ready:
- Revenue
- Cost structure
- Growth trends
- Future projections
Organized books reflect a professional business.
How to Choose the Right References
Pick people who have seen your journey—mentors, advisors, partners, or major clients. Ensure they’re aware and ready to respond if contacted.
Acceptable Alternatives to a Business License
No license? No stress. Submit:
- Bank statements
- Rental contracts
- Utility bills
- Signed leases
These prove operational legitimacy.
Checklist Before You Submit
- All starred fields complete
- Documents uploaded
- Videos attached
- Final read-through done
Overcoming Application Fatigue
Break it into mini-tasks. Take breaks. Celebrate progress. Reward yourself at milestones.
What Judges Are Likely Looking For
- Scalability
- Innovation
- Social impact
- Team resilience
- Clear execution strategy
Where to Get Help
Check the official FAQs or use the “Contact Us” section on the website. Don’t hesitate—your success is their goal too.
What to Do If You Encounter Issues
- Save your draft
- Clear your cache
- Try another browser
- Reach out for tech support
Keeping Your Language Clear and Concise
Avoid jargon. Use everyday words. Break complex thoughts into short sentences. Explain terms if needed.
Using Yoast’s Flesch Reading Tips
Aim for a Flesch reading score of 60–70. Use short sentences. Avoid four-syllable words. Make it easy for judges to scan and understand.
Making Your Application Cohesive
Use transition words: “however,” “as a result,” “meanwhile,” “most importantly.” These glue your ideas together.
Organizing Your Application Like a Pro
Structure matters. Use bullet points, short paragraphs, and bold subheadings. This isn’t a novel—it’s a business story.
Why It Matters in Your Answers
Active voice shows confidence. Compare:
- Passive: “The idea was developed by the team.”
- Active: “Our team developed the idea.”
One’s stronger. Always go with strength.
Fred Swaniker’s Words of Encouragement
“Fortune favors the bold.” Be bold. Be you. Apply like you’re already halfway to winning.
