The Forty Under 40 Africa Awards 2026 is now open for nominations. The programme recognises young African entrepreneurs, business leaders and professionals who have made an impact in their industries and communities.
Furthermore, the awards cover 40 different categories, including technology, agriculture, finance, education, healthcare, fashion, energy, media and real estate.
Nominations opened on September 10, 2026, and will close on October 31, 2026.
What Programme Is This?
The Forty Under 40 Africa Awards 2026 is an awards programme that celebrates young African business leaders and professionals.
It focuses on professional achievement, business growth and community contribution. In addition, it brings together nominees from Africa and the African diaspora.
For more opportunities, you can also explore OpportunityLab at opportunitylab.net.
Who Is Eligible for the Forty Under 40 Africa Awards 2026?
Nominees must meet the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of one of Africa’s 55 countries.
- Live in Africa or the African diaspora.
- Be under 40 years old or turn 40 during the event year.
- Be an entrepreneur, shareholder, founder or co-founder of a company.
- Be nominated by another person.
Importantly, self-nomination is not allowed under the stated guidelines.
What Country or Region Is Eligible for the Forty Under 40 Africa Awards 2026?
The programme is open to Africans across the continent and the African diaspora.
Therefore, eligible nominees can live in an African country or within the African diaspora, provided they meet the other requirements.
What Does the Programme Cover?
The awards cover 40 categories across different industries.
These include:
- Agriculture and Agro-Processing
- Banking and Finance
- Education
- Energy, Oil and Gas
- Fashion
- Healthcare and Wellness
- Journalism
- Manufacturing
- Media
- Mining
- Real Estate
- Science, Technology and Innovation
- Social Enterprise
- Telecom, Mobile and Software Development
- Transport and Automobile
In addition, categories cover areas such as aviation, beauty, hospitality, law, logistics, music, sports and philanthropy.
What Are the Academic Requirements for the Forty Under 40 Africa Awards 2026?
There are no specific academic qualifications listed among the published eligibility requirements.
Therefore, applicants do not appear to need a particular degree, diploma or academic certificate. The focus is instead on entrepreneurship, professional achievement, business involvement and community contribution.
What Documents Are Required for the Forty Under 40 Africa Awards 2026?
The organisers may request supporting documents during the nomination process.
These can include:
- Recommendation letters
- Business or company documents
- Information about professional achievements
- Details of business activities and contributions
However, nominators should check the official nomination form for the exact documents required.
When Is the Deadline for the Forty Under 40 Africa Awards 2026?
The nomination deadline is:
October 31, 2026
Meanwhile, the published timeline indicates that nominees will be announced and voting will begin on November 9, 2026.
Voting will close on December 31, 2026.
How Do I Apply for the Forty Under 40 Africa Awards 2026?
You cannot nominate yourself.
Instead, another person must submit the nomination on your behalf. First, identify an eligible entrepreneur, founder, shareholder or business leader.
Next, select the category that matches the nominee’s work. Then, provide the requested information and supporting documents.
Finally, submit the nomination before the deadline.
Where Is the Official Application for the Forty Under 40 Africa Awards 2026?
Nominations should be submitted through the official Forty Under 40 Africa Awards website.
Before submitting any information, make sure you are using the organisers’ official website and not an unofficial third-party page.
You can also check OpportunityLab at opportunitylab.net for other African opportunities.
What Are the Benefits for the Forty Under 40 Africa Awards 2026?
The programme provides an opportunity for recognised young African business leaders and professionals to gain visibility for their work.
Furthermore, selected nominees can benefit from:
- Professional recognition
- Greater visibility for their businesses or careers
- Networking opportunities
- Exposure to other African business leaders
- Recognition of professional and community contributions
- Participation in the summit and awards activities
The summit and awards night are scheduled to take place in Accra, Ghana, on March 20, 2027.
