Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme 2026 for Young African Entrepreneurs (US$5,000 in Seed Capital)

The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) has opened applications for its 2026 Entrepreneurship Programme, a flagship initiative that empowers African entrepreneurs with business training, expert mentoring, and non-refundable seed funding. This programme supports visionary founders with scalable business ideas or early-stage ventures across the continent.

About the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Grant

The Tony Elumelu Foundation is one of Africa’s largest entrepreneurial philanthropy programmes, rooted in the philosophy of Africapitalism where private sector success fuels broad economic development. Since 2015, TEF has invested over $100 million across more than 20,000 entrepreneurs, generating jobs and business growth throughout all 54 African countries. The 2026 edition aims at identifying, training, mentoring, and funding young African entrepreneurs with transformative business ideas or existing enterprises. Each year, selected entrepreneurs receive comprehensive business support that combines $5,000 in non-refundable seed capital, intensive business training, and mentorship from seasoned professionals.

Benefits

1. 💰 $5,000 Non-Refundable Seed Funding – Financial support to kickstart or scale your business.
2. 📘 World-Class Business Training – Access to TEFConnect’s comprehensive online curriculum covering essential topics like business management, marketing, and finance.
3. 🤝 One-on-One Mentorship – Personalized guidance from experienced business leaders and mentors across Africa.
4. 🌍 Networking & Market Access – Opportunities to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, investors, and potential partners across the African continent.

The programme offers more than funding—it provides the tools, resources, and community every entrepreneur needs to thrive in today’s competitive business environment.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Must be a citizen or legal resident of an African country.
2. Must be 18 years of age or older.
3. Must have a business idea or an existing business that is not more than five years old.
4. The business or idea must operate within Africa and demonstrate growth potential.

The programme welcomes entrepreneurs from all sectors, including technology, agriculture, manufacturing, fashion, healthcare, renewable energy, and more.

Application Process

All applications for the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Grant 2026 must be submitted online via the official TEFConnect platform, accessed through the link below.

1. 1. Visit the TEFConnect website and create an account.
2. 2. Verify your email address and complete your personal and business profile.
3. 3. Select the 2026 Entrepreneurship Programme from the list of available opportunities.
4. 4. Fill in all required fields carefully and submit your application before the deadline.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

GOOD LUCK