The power of the web is changing lives in Africa every day. Africa Connected. Success stories powered by the web. is an initiative by Google in collaboration with its partners that is aimed at creating a platform to:

• Drive the largest collection of inspiring stories about ventures established on or propelled by the web by Africans in Africa
• Demonstrate how these achievements are having social and economic impact in the everyday lives of people across the continent
• Encourage users of the web in Africa to learn more about all the things that they can do on the web with Google

In an effort to help boost the social and economic impact being created by Africans who have embraced the web, Google is offering up five prizes of $25,000 each to the most inspiring stories established on the continent where the web has played a pivotal role in achieving success.

Do you have an amazing success story that is powered by the web? Submit your story for a chance to win one of the five cash prizes

The five most inspiring stories stand to win prizes of $25,000 each, and the winners will also have the opportunity to work with a Google champion to help them make their venture even more awesome.

Do you have a healthy disregard for the impossible? Are you using the web and technology to do cool and extraordinary things? Whether you’re a photographer, an entrepreneur, a fashion designer or a community activist, this is an opportunity to share your story with the world.

Categories for contest entries include:

• Education
• Entertainment/Arts/Sports
• Technology
• Community and NGOs
• Small Business

20 semi-finalists will be selected to take part in an interview and to produce a short promotional video. A judging panel made up of Googlers and external judges will then determine the 10 finalists. Submissions are open from August 27, 2013 to October 31, 2013. The competition will run until February 2014 when the winners will be announced.

Even if you do not yet have a story to share, you can learn more about the web and Google through the Africa Connected platform. We’re looking forward to showcasing your amazing web success story!

For more information and to enter the Africa Connected contest, visit www.africaconnected.com.

How can I submit my story?

You can submit your story by completing the submission form.

Do I have to be resident in an African country to participate?

Yes. You must be able to prove that you are resident in one of the 55 African countries excluding Sudan to participate in the campaign. Your venture must have been established and operational in same 55 eligible countries. For details, visit the terms and conditions.