The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme is Africa’s largest philanthropic initiative supporting young African entrepreneurs. Each year, 1,000 entrepreneurs from across the continent receive $5,000 in non-refundable seed capital, business training, mentoring, and access to a powerful alumni network.
Programme Benefits
- $5,000 seed capital (non-refundable grant)
- 12-week online business management training programme
- Access to mentors and business advisors
- Networking opportunities with over 18,000 alumni
- Opportunity to pitch at the annual TEF Entrepreneurship Forum
- Access to markets, funding, and partnership opportunities
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be an African citizen or legal resident of an African country
- Must be 18 years or older
- Must have a business idea or an existing business that is less than 5 years old
- Business must be based in Africa
- Must commit to completing the 12-week training programme
- Must submit a viable business plan
How to Apply
Applications are submitted online through the TEF Connect platform. You’ll need to create an account, complete your profile, and submit a detailed application including your business idea, market analysis, and financial projections. Applications typically open in January and close in March each year.
Selection Process
Applications go through a multi-stage review process including automated screening, business plan evaluation, and expert panel assessment. Selected entrepreneurs are notified and begin the training programme shortly after. The programme has supported entrepreneurs in all 54 African countries across sectors including agriculture, technology, fashion, healthcare, and manufacturing.
If you’re an aspiring or early-stage African entrepreneur, the Tony Elumelu Foundation programme could be the launchpad your business needs. Apply when the next cycle opens and join a community of Africa’s most ambitious changemakers.