Orange has launched the 16th edition of its Orange Social Ventures Prize in the Middle East and Africa (OSVP), aimed at supporting innovative entrepreneurship and high-impact projects across the region.
Thursday 26 March 2026 marks the official opening of applications for the flagship initiative, which invites entrepreneurs from the 17 countries where Orange operates in Africa and the Middle East to apply. Submissions will remain open until 10 May 2026.
Driving innovation to tackle societal challenges
For this year’s edition, Orange is highlighting startups that leverage emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data and cybersecurity to deliver sustainable solutions for communities and the environment.
Projects in key sectors including agriculture, education, environment and healthcare are particularly encouraged, given their potential to drive transformation across the region.
A platform to scale high-impact startups
Beyond financial rewards, the OSVP is designed as a growth accelerator for early-stage ventures. Winners will receive support through the Orange Digital Centers, alongside strategic partnerships intended to expand market access, unlock funding opportunities and provide critical expertise.
Since its inception, the competition has attracted more than 17,600 applications, cementing its role as a major catalyst for entrepreneurship in Africa and the Middle East.
Two-stage competition structure
The competition will unfold in two phases:
The national phase, running from 26 March to 10 May 2026, will take place across 17 countries. National winners will be selected following an evaluation process led by a jury comprising ecosystem stakeholders and Orange representatives.
In the international phase, the top three winners from each country will advance to the final, competing for several awards:
The International Grand Prix, which will recognise first, second and third place winners
The International Women’s Prize, with up to three candidates per country
Projects will first be assessed by a panel of Orange employees. From this process, 10 finalists will be selected for the International Grand Prix, and five for the International Women’s Prize.
A final jury made up of experts and leading figures from the technology and entrepreneurship sectors will, from October 2026, select the three International Grand Prix winners and the recipient of the International Women’s Prize.
Financial backing for growth
Winners will receive substantial funding to scale their solutions:
€25,000 for first prize
€15,000 for second prize
€10,000 for third prize
€20,000 for the International Women’s Prize
Supporting the next generation of innovators
Through the OSVP, Orange reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young entrepreneurs, driving innovation and fostering inclusive economic growth.
By backing impact-driven startups, the company aims to nurture the next generation of business leaders shaping the future economy in Africa and the Middle East.
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