About the Awards

African success is built on robust, innovative, and forward-thinking SMEs. The SME Champions Awards aim to showcase these companies that transcend boundaries, inspire, generate wealth, and emerge as local, continental, or global leaders.

Each edition recognizes three exceptionally successful SMEs, as well as two banking players essential to supporting the continent’s entrepreneurial ecosystems. These winners will be chosen from among numerous applicants from across Africa.

These awards will be officially presented on May 8th at the prestigious Forum. Beyond recognition, the winners will benefit from unique continental visibility, enhanced positioning in their sectors, and increased opportunities for collaboration and investment.

Category

SME of the year

The Africa SME Champions Awards Will recognize an SME that has achieved superior financial performance and that has had a positive impact on its environment.

START-UP of the year

The Africa SME Champions Awards Will recognize the achievements of an SME created by an entrepreneur below 40 years old.

Best Financial institution

The Africa SME Champions Awards Will recognize a commercial bank that has had a major impact on SMEs across the continent.

Woman Entrepreneur of the Year

The Africa SME Champions Awards Will recognize a Women Entrepreneur that has had a major impact across the continent.

SME Selection criteria

.01
Minimum of 3 years of legal existence.
02
At least 10 full-time employees or the equivalent.
03
Turnover between US $250,000 and $15 million.
04
Audited financial statements for the last 2 years.
05
Minimum of 25% of its capital held by African shareholders.
06
At least 70% of total turnover generated on the African continent.

Our Past Winners