About the programme
Applications are now open for the 2026 Entrepreneurship Programme by the Tony Elumelu Foundation, one of Africa’s largest initiatives dedicated to supporting young entrepreneurs.

The programme provides $5,000 in non-refundable seed capital, alongside business training, mentorship, and networking opportunities for emerging business leaders across the continent.

Designed to empower the next generation of African innovators, the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme helps founders transform promising ideas into thriving businesses that create jobs and drive economic growth across Africa.

About the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme
The Tony Elumelu Foundation launched its flagship entrepreneurship initiative in 2015 to support African entrepreneurs at the early stages of their business journeys. The programme is built on the philosophy of Africapitalism, which emphasizes the role of the private sector in accelerating Africa’s economic development and social progress.

Since its inception, the foundation has invested over $100 million in more than 20,000 entrepreneurs across 54 African countries. These investments have helped businesses grow, create jobs, and contribute to local economic development throughout the continent.

The 2026 edition aims to identify, train, mentor, and fund a new cohort of young African entrepreneurs with innovative ideas or existing businesses that demonstrate strong growth potential.

Programme Benefits
Participants selected for the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme receive a comprehensive package of support designed to help them launch and scale successful businesses.
** $5,000 Non-Refundable Seed Capital
Each selected entrepreneur receives $5,000 in seed funding to launch or expand their business. This capital is non-refundable, allowing founders to invest directly in product development, operations, or market expansion.
** World-Class Business Training
Participants gain access to the TEFConnect, the foundation’s digital entrepreneurship platform. The platform offers a structured online curriculum covering key topics such as:

• Business strategy and planning
• Marketing and customer acquisition
• Financial management
• Scaling and sustainability

** One-on-One Mentorship
Selected entrepreneurs are paired with experienced mentors who provide personalized guidance and practical insights. This mentorship helps participants refine their business models, overcome challenges, and make strategic decisions.
** Networking and Market Access
The programme also connects participants with a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts across Africa. These connections can lead to new partnerships, collaborations, and investment opportunities.

Who Can Apply?
The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme is open to aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs across Africa who meet the following criteria:

• Applicants must be citizens or legal residents of an African country.
• Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• They must have a business idea or an existing business not older than five years.
• The business must operate within Africa and demonstrate strong growth potential.

Entrepreneurs from all sectors are encouraged to apply, including:

• Technology and innovation
• Agriculture and agribusiness
• Manufacturing and production
• Fashion and creative industries
• Healthcare and social enterprises
• Renewable energy and sustainability

This broad eligibility ensures that entrepreneurs from diverse industries can benefit from the programme.

Application Process
Applications for the 2026 Entrepreneurship Programme must be submitted online through the TEFConnect portal.

The application process involves several simple steps:

1. Visit the TEFConnect platform and create an account.
2. Verify the email address and complete the personal profile.
3. Fill in detailed information about the business idea or existing venture.
4. Select the 2026 Entrepreneurship Programme from the available opportunities.
5. Review the application carefully and submit it before the official deadline.

Applicants are encouraged to provide clear and well-structured information about their business model, impact potential, and growth plans.

Why This Programme Matters
The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme plays a critical role in strengthening Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. By providing funding, training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, the programme helps entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses that generate employment and stimulate economic growth.