Applications are open for the Anzisha Fellowship 2027, a multi-year venture-building programme supporting some of Africa’s youngest entrepreneurs to strengthen their businesses, create jobs and prepare for long-term growth.
Run by African Leadership Academy in partnership with Mastercard Foundation, Anzisha works with young founders who have moved beyond the idea stage and are already building operating ventures.
The Fellowship combines structured learning, personalised coaching, financial support and practical business experience, while connecting participants to a pan-African community of young entrepreneurs.
What the Fellowship Offers
Fellows receive support designed around the practical challenges of building and growing a business.
This includes:
- Milestone-based cash stipends linked to business progress
- Personalised business and leadership coaching
- Financial-readiness support to strengthen systems and prepare for investment
- Self-paced digital courses and live learning sessions
- Experiential learning through shadowing established entrepreneurs
- Access to technical support and specialised service providers
- A peer community of young founders from across Africa
At the end of the second year, Fellows compete for a share of US$40,000 in prizes across four categories: Job Creation, Revenue Growth, Storytelling, and Systems of Delivery.
Anzisha says its community now includes more than 300 young entrepreneurs from across the continent, with Fellows collectively creating thousands of jobs.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be 15–22 years old
- Be a citizen of an African country
- Hold a valid National ID or passport
- Have already started a business or project
- Be a founder actively leading the venture
- Spend at least 20 hours per week working on the business
The Fellowship is intended for young founders already demonstrating commitment to building a sustainable venture rather than applicants who only have an untested business idea.
A Multi-Year Venture-Building Journey
Anzisha’s model places considerable emphasis on sustained business development rather than a one-off competition.
- Fellows receive ongoing support as they improve operations, strengthen teams, build financial systems and develop the capabilities required to grow their ventures.
- Participants also join a community of young entrepreneurs spanning more than 30 African countries, creating opportunities for peer learning, collaboration and cross-border connections.
Applications for the 2027 intake are free of charge.