Applications are now open for the 15th edition of the Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP) in Africa and the Middle East, an initiative aimed at supporting social innovation and entrepreneurship by recognizing startups leveraging technology to address critical challenges in the region.
Since its launch in 2011, the OSVP has been a driving force for innovation, rewarding entrepreneurs and startups that harness technology to create sustainable solutions in key sectors such as education, healthcare, e-commerce, agriculture, and the environment. By fostering socially impactful businesses, the prize has helped hundreds of startups gain visibility, funding, and support to scale their solutions.
Structure of the 2025 Competition
The 15th edition of OSVP is open to entrepreneurs from the 17 countries within Orange’s footprint in Africa and the Middle East. The competition unfolds in two stages:
- National Stage (Now – May 2025)
- Applications are open until May 18, 2025.
- Each participating country will select three national winners, who will move on to the next round.
- International Stage (June – October 2025)
- A total of 51 national winners (three from each of the 17 countries) will advance to the international stage.
- Orange Group employees will shortlist 15 finalists—10 for the International Grand Prize and five for the International Women’s Prize.
- A final jury, consisting of industry leaders, tech experts, and entrepreneurs from Africa and the Middle East, will select the overall winners.
Cash Prizes and Support for Winners
The OSVP winners will receive financial support to accelerate their projects, with a total prize pool of EUR70,000 (US$76,000):
- International Grand Prize Winners:
- 1st Prize – EUR25,000 (US$27,000)
- 2nd Prize – EUR15,000 (US$16,000)
- 3rd Prize – EUR10,000 (US$11,000)
- International Women’s Prize Winner:
- EUR20,000 (US$22,000)
Beyond financial support, winners gain access to Orange’s vast network of experts, industry connections, and business acceleration opportunities, further strengthening their ability to scale and impact their communities.
The OSVP is a key initiative that underscores Orange’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and technological innovation in Africa and the Middle East. By backing solutions that address pressing societal issues, the competition continues to catalyze change and empower local entrepreneurs to create sustainable economic and social impact.
How to Apply
Applications for the 2025 edition of the OSVP are open until May 18, 2025. Interested entrepreneurs and startups can submit their applications here: [Application Link].
This is an incredible opportunity for innovators looking to scale their impact-driven startups and receive financial and strategic support from a leading global telecom player.
