Entrepreneurship is a powerful economic growth tool for the global and local economies. Over the last decade, an economic development practice called entrepreneurship and startup ecosystem building has emerged. Startup ecosystems leverage the connected resources of local communities to support entrepreneurs as they start and scale high-growth companies.

While it’s been heartening to see government and industry step up during this pandemic to infuse entrepreneurship and small businesses with needed capital, there’s another group of people who have been working, often unnoticed and unheralded, behind the scenes to support and catalyse entrepreneurs for years — startup ecosystem builders or just ecosystem builders. And, with the exponential challenges brought about by pandemic, entrepreneurs and communities will need ecosystem builders now more than ever.

Above all, wouldn’t it be great if we could recognize and honor all of these selfless folks (Ecosystem Builders) who offer so much yet often get so little acknowledgment for their efforts behind the scenes?

With over 2690 nominations received across 40 African countries in 27 categories including Ecosystem Builder of the year, Startup Coach of the Year and more. The awards recognise excellence in Africa’s startup and entrepreneurship ecosystem and celebrate unsung heroes in ecosystem building who are individuals, communities, institutions, and organisations that have demonstrated innovation, excellence, outstanding achievement, and impact in advancing African entrepreneurship.

The objectives of the awards are to:

To highlight and celebrate ecosystem builders across Africa who are building this movement through their daily work.

Increase awareness of the importance of strengthening Africa’s startup and entrepreneurship ecosystem and culture; and, Incentivize efforts and elevate ambitions of the African entrepreneurial community.