Mobile operator Orange has launched a call for candidates for the 2016 Social Venture Prize in Africa and the Middle East, which will reward startups with prize money totalling US$62,000.
The Orange Social Venture Prize has been extended to the Middle East for the first time this year, with applications open until September 21.
Five startups will be recognised during the awards ceremony with prize money totalling EUR55,000 (US$62,000), while the 10 finalists will receive special support from the Grow Movement NGO for 6 months.
The public can participate in the selection by choosing their favourite project on the new Orange portal for entrepreneurs in Africa and the Middle East – EntrepreneurClub.
The Orange Social Venture Prize showcases entrepreneurs offering innovative products and services meeting the health, agricultural, educational, energy, commercial or industrial needs of local communities.
“Orange MEA is a strategic partner for the digital transformation in Africa and the Middle East to serve its 110 million customers; it plans to play a leading role in supporting the digital transformation of the African continent and to be a major partner to start-ups,” said Bruno Mettling, deputy chief executive officer of Orange operations in Africa and the Middle East.
Disrupt Africa reported last year Egyptian “click-funding” startup Bassita was named overall winner of the Orange African Social Venture Prize, taking home EUR25,000 (US$26,714).
