SportsBiz Africa Opens Applications for 2026 Professional Development Masterclass Series
Applications are now open for the 2026 SportsBiz Africa Professional Development Masterclass Series, a free five week online programme designed to equip emerging sports professionals with practical knowledge of Africas growing sports business ecosystem.
Scheduled to run from 3 August to 7 September 2026, the masterclass is open to young professionals, sports administrators, federation staff, entrepreneurs, startup founders, athletes transitioning into business, students, recent graduates, and professionals interested in building careers within the sports industry.
The programme is designed to strengthen participants understanding of the business of sport in Africa, with expert led sessions covering sponsorship and commercial partnerships, sports marketing, media and fan engagement, innovation, entrepreneurship, investment readiness, athlete branding, sports events and operations, and sport for development. Participants will also develop practical sports business projects aimed at attracting sponsorship and investment opportunities.
Delivered entirely online, the series combines interactive learning with practical application, culminating in a final project presentation ahead of the SportsBiz Africa Forum 2026 in Kigali, Rwanda. Registration is free, and the application process is completed online.
The initiative continues SportsBiz Africas commitment to developing the next generation of sports leaders across the continent. The 2025 edition graduated 25 young professionals from across Africa, with participants presenting innovative sports business projects and outstanding projects receiving recognition and support for further development.
As Africas sports industry continues to expand, programmes such as the SportsBiz Africa Masterclass provide valuable opportunities for students, athletes, administrators, entrepreneurs, and young professionals to gain industry knowledge, build professional networks, and develop the skills required to contribute meaningfully to the future of sport on the continent.
NUGA encourages members of the university sports community, particularly students, volunteers, recent graduates, and aspiring sports professionals, to take advantage of opportunities that promote learning, innovation, and professional development within the sports industry.