Why
Similar to Germany, African markets are home to a rising number of companies that are not well-known but yet produce high quality goods and services suitable for the global market.
Studies covering success stories of such African companies are few and far between therefore the Hidden Champions initiative aims to close this gap by generating and publishing case studies about such businesses. The initiative also includes an award and investment promotion scheme for the selected businesses.
This joint initiative led by DEG and Africa Foresight Group, is premised upon our shared values and commitment to growth and advancement of prospects of people and businesses on the African continent.
Roadmap for a Hidden Champion Company
AFG and DEG select 1-2 high growth African companies to profile every quarter
A compendium of case studies of high growth African business is published and made publicly available.
Award to top annual hidden champion profiled in that particular year
To create additional coverage for the best company profiled one company is selected per year and awarded as the Hidden Champion of the year.
Consideration for potential investment.
Once a year, new case studies will be launched at an exclusive online event with investors.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify as a profiled business, companies must fit the following criteria
Stage of the business
Revenues of at least $ 20 million in last business year
At least 7 years in operation
Economically sustainable business model
Business Sector
Agribusiness, manufacturing and services sectors
No businesses in tobacco, hard liquor, weapons industry or on DEG exclusion list
Growth Opportunity
Business has proven strong product-market fit in home market
Sizable opportunity for expansion
Pursues a path of innovation/industrialization