Stanbic Bank Botswana has called on local micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to enter the Standard Bank Africa Business Awards 2026, a continental initiative recognising businesses driving innovation, employment and community impact. Entries opened on September 18 and close on October 17, 2026.
The awards will culminate in a Pan-African ceremony in Johannesburg, bringing together businesses from Standard Bank’s African markets. The platform is intended to give enterprises greater visibility while creating opportunities to connect with investors, business partners and markets across borders.
Basimane Tshepe, Acting Head of Business & Commercial Banking at Stanbic Bank Botswana, said the initiative would give Botswana entrepreneurs an opportunity to showcase their businesses beyond the domestic market. He said local enterprises were creating jobs, strengthening supply chains and contributing to communities.
Eligible businesses include existing Stanbic clients and new-to-bank enterprises operating in agriculture, construction, FMCG and retail, manufacturing, creative industries, technology and innovation, and the green economy. Women-owned and youth-led businesses are also encouraged to enter.
Applications can be submitted through the official Standard Bank Africa Business Awards portal before the October 17 deadline. Stanbic said the awards will also provide participating businesses with opportunities for cross-border connections, learning and potential growth as they compete for continental recognition.
