Your go-to source for in-depth coverage of political developments, economic trends, social affairs, and vibrant cultural stories from across the continent.
T he Gabonese government has officially announced the launch of its National Grand Prize for Entrepreneurship, a month-long competition set to run from July 1 to July 30, 2025, under the banner “Osez mon Projet” (“Dare My Project”).
The initiative is designed to empower local innovators and promote entrepreneurship across key sectors of the national economy.
The announcement was made by Georgette Onagala, Director General of SMEs and Chair of the Organising Committee, during a press conference on Monday.
She confirmed that the contest is being spearheaded by the Ministry of Entrepreneurship, Commerce, and SMEs-PMIs, and is themed “The Rise of Gabonese Entrepreneurship in the Era of the Fifth Republic.”
Onagala highlighted the strategic role of the agro-food sector in Gabon’s economy and emphasized the contest’s objective to tackle major challenges, particularly in agriculture, livestock, and fisheries.
“This competition is a unique opportunity to highlight high-impact projects in the sectors of agriculture, livestock, and fishing,” she stated.
Also present at the event was the Minister of Entrepreneurship, Chaning Zenaba Gninga, who revealed that the government will provide financial support totalling 30 million FCFA to winning entrepreneurs.
This funding will be facilitated through partnerships with microfinance institutions such as the Gabonese Bank for Commerce and Entrepreneurship (BCEG), which will verify project authenticity.
“The funding will be granted only to the selected project owner.
Any attempt at substitution or falsification will block access to credit,” Gninga warned, stressing the rigorous transparency mechanisms in place.
Applications are open to all Gabonese nationals aged 18 and above, including members of the diaspora.
Applicants must present a structured project or a working prototype and must be operating within Gabonese territory.
Submissions opened on June 23, 2025, and will close on July 6, 2025.
Entries can be submitted at regional offices of the ministry, the General Directorate of SMEs in Awendjé (Libreville), or online at
Projects will be evaluated based on several key criteria, including relevance, innovation, socio-economic impact, and financial viability, with a total score out of 100 points.
The competition is expected to span one to three months and includes a post-contest support phase.
A provisional budget of 100 million FCFA has been allocated for logistics, communication, and training, with support from public institutions, international organizations, and private sector stakeholders.
The initiative reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and economic resilience across Gabon.
