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DHL Exporter of the Year Awards Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to your DHL Exporter of the Year Awards, 2025 - Africa Edition frequently asked questions. 

General Questions

Who can participate?

Any legally registered SME across Sub-Saharan Africa that:

  • Actively trades across borders for over 12 months
  • Trades in goods and products, not services
  • Has 25 or fewer employees

How can I participate?

Participation in the awards can be carried out exclusively through the registration form. Ensure that you complete the application form and fill in all the required fields on the form.

Is there an entry/application fee to participate?

No, it's free.

Can I enter more than one category?

Yes, SMEs can enter more than one category. You would need to complete all the questions related to the categories you are applying for.

When will the application process close?

Applications close on 31 October 2025.

Can I update my application after submission?

No, after submission you are not be able to update your application.

What are the prizes?

Cash Award of 4,000 EUROS per category. Winners of each category will get a fully paid trip to the DHL Innovation Hub in Dubai. Additionally, winners will receive:

  • 3x mentorship or consultancy sessions with Global DHL Experts
  • Networking sessions with Special Economic Zone officials, Dubai State officials, and Dubai based entrepreneurs/SMEs
  • Publicity for their SME and the SME’s products on DHL’s digital platforms

How will I be notified if I am selected as a finalist?

Award finalists would be initially contacted by e-mail and phone call. Non-finalists would be informed only by e-mail.

When will the winners be announced?

Winners will be announced on 2 March 2026. Initial communication would be by email, and phone call.

Who to contact for more information or additional questions?

Send an e-mail to gotrade@dpdhl.com with e-mail subject “Exporters of the Year Awards”.

What criteria are used to judge the applications?

The awards are awarded based on the responses and evidence shared by SMEs in the application forms. All applications would go through a 3-phased review.

  • First phase: All applications received across SSA are reviewed to identify country specific shortlists
  • Second phase: Regional Shortlist review committee reviews all applications and documents submitted by SMEs to identify the SME  Finalists. The review committee is a panel of external (non-DHL) judges.
  • Final phase: Finalist SMEs present to a Panel of Judges consisting of  members from DHL’s African Management Board and External Partners. Final Award winners and Runner-ups are identified on the website.