The #MyLittleBigThing Challenge is now open for applications. This is a chance for young people across Africa to share their ideas and projects that promote sustainability. The goal is to shine a light on African stories of innovation and change.
The main aim of this challenge is to support young innovators who are building projects that connect with Africa’s future and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). If you have a smart idea that can bring positive change, this is your opportunity.
The challenge focuses on four main tracks. Every idea or project entered must fit into at least one of these tracks.
Applications will be judged by a team of experts chosen by MK-Africa. They will be looking at five main things: how new and creative your idea is (innovation), the change it can make in society or the environment (impact), whether it can actually be done (feasibility), how big it can grow (scalability), and how well it fits the mission of the challenge and the SDGs (alignment).
BEnefits of the #MyLittleBigThing Challenge
- If you are selected as a finalist, you will join a special mentorship and training program. This program will teach you important skills, like design thinking, to help you polish and improve your project.
- Winners will be given seed funding (exact amount will be shared later with finalists) and the chance to connect with strong networks that can support their growth.
- These prizes are made to help winners grow their projects into bigger solutions.
Who can apply?
- To be eligible, you must be a citizen of an African country and be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Your project must also be designed for Africa and still be in its early stage.
- This challenge is especially for young innovators who are just starting out but have strong ideas.
Important dates and where to apply
The application window runs from August 1, 2025, to October 15, 2025. After that, judges will review the applications, and the grand finale, where winners are announced, will take place in May 2026. To begin, click HERE.
The #MyLittleBigThing Challenge is open for young Africans to present their sustainable innovation ideas aimed at aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This challenge is organized to spotlight African stories of change and innovation, targeting projects that cater to Africa’s future.
Entrants must align their ideas with at least one of four main tracks, and the proposals will be evaluated based on creativity, societal or environmental impact, feasibility, scalability, and alignment with the challenge’s mission and SDGs.
Selected finalists will benefit from a mentorship and training program focusing on skill development, such as design thinking, to enhance their projects.
Winners will receive seed funding and be linked to supportive networks to help scale their projects. Eligible participants must be African citizens aged between 18 and 35 with projects in the early stages designed for Africa.
Applications are accepted from August 1, 2025, to October 15, 2025, with a grand finale in May 2026 to announce winners.
