The Entrepreneur Academy, an initiative by 54 Collective, is officially winding down after years of empowering aspiring entrepreneurs and supporting small businesses across Africa. Since its inception, the program has trained and mentored over 2,000 entrepreneurs and disbursed more than 600 grants to SMEs, playing a significant role in fostering innovation and economic growth on the continent.
The closure of the Entrepreneur Academy is part of a broader venture studio shutdown by 54 Collective, which has been restructuring its operations. The decision follows the conclusion of its funding partnership between the Mastercard Foundation and AFV, as both organizations shift toward new strategic priorities. Despite this transition, the academy’s legacy remains strong, having equipped entrepreneurs with essential skills, funding, and resources to build sustainable businesses.
Reflecting on the journey, Lisa Kimondo, Director of the Entrepreneur Academy, expressed pride in the impact the program has had on the African entrepreneurial ecosystem. She extended heartfelt gratitude to the participants, partners, and mentors who contributed to the academy’s success.
“While the Explore Program is coming to an end, we remain incredibly proud of the resilience and achievements of our alumni. We encourage them to continue their entrepreneurial journeys and leverage the networks and knowledge they’ve gained to drive impact in their communities,” said Kimondo.
A newsletter broadcast shared on Tuesday, February 25, officially informed the academy’s community about the closure. The message acknowledged the contributions of stakeholders and reaffirmed 54 Collective’s ongoing commitment to supporting entrepreneurs through new initiatives.
Although the academy’s operations are winding down, alumni are advised to fulfill any remaining reporting requirements related to grants or program participation. Meanwhile, 54 Collective is evaluating future opportunities to continue supporting entrepreneurs in different ways.
As the Entrepreneur Academy and the broader 54 Collective venture studio shut down, their influence on Africa’s startup landscape endures, with a generation of business leaders who will continue to shape the future of entrepreneurship on the continent.
