Applications are welcomed from suitably qualified applicants for the Mandela Rhodes Foundation Äänit Prize aimed at supporting initiatives that can deliver positive social impact for Africa’s most marginalized populations.
The Prize will fund up to $100,000, while expanding the scope of the prize to also recognize alumni who are driving innovative, impactful work within existing organisations, in the non-profit, for-profit or hybrid sectors.
The Mandela Rhodes Foundation Äänit Prize | DETAILS
Up to $100,000 dollars in funding is available annually to between one or four winners who will show how their initiatives can deliver positive social impact for the most marginalized populations in Africa. The prize seek businesses or non-profit projects that will deliver social impact, that are feasible and sustainable prospects, and that are run by people with the capacity to succeed.
It is believed that meaningful transformation can happen at every level, and this evolution of the prize reflects commitment to celebrating African innovation wherever it is found.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Mandela Rhodes Foundation Aanit Prize 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Entrants must demonstrate that they are contributing (or will contribute) to one of the below impact areas in Africa.
- Entrants must be founders, co-founders or members of the executive team of the business or organisation which they are entering.
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Non-Profit and For-Profit initiatives are both eligible. Initiatives at different stages of development can apply.
Successful candidates will be expected to stay with their projects for two years from the time of the award.
Application Procedures
How-to-Apply: Interested applicants for the Mandela Rhodes Foundation Aanit Prize 2026 are to follow the steps outlined below:
Step 1: Indicate interest (20 May 2026 – 17 June 2026)
Submit a short motivation explaining why your project, business or idea is socially impactful. Tell us how you plan to realise it and why you’re the ideal person/team that has what it takes to make it happen. Don’t self-exclude — we’ve designed this part of the process to make applying quick, easy and approachable.
Step 2: Wait to be invited to apply
We will review all of the indications of interest and then invite candidates to submit full applications. We will let you know if you are not successful.
Step 3: Submit your application (1 July 2026 – 21 July 2026)
Submit your application. This will include a written project statement, a project/business plan (maximum of 12 pages) and relevant supporting documents. All applications will be evaluated by reviewers with relevant experience and expertise.
Step 4: Prepare to pitch
The longlisted candidates will be invited to an interview in the week of 17 August 2026, which will include a short pitch that builds on the value proposition of your written application.
Step 5: Iterate and improve
The candidates invited to the final round will receive written comments. They will have 48 hours to improve their proposals and record a two-minute pitch to submit.
Step 6: Winners decided
The shortlisted candidates’ applications will be sent to an external, independent panel of judges. They will make a final decision on how many winners to choose, and how to allocate the prize money.
Application Deadline: 17 June 2026
