Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme 2026 ($5,000 Grant, Training & Mentorship)
The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) has officially opened applications for the 2026 TEF Entrepreneurship Programme, one of Africa’s most influential initiatives supporting young and emerging entrepreneurs. The programme is designed to empower African business owners with the skills, funding, and mentorship required to build sustainable and scalable enterprises.
Through a combination of business training, expert mentorship, and non‑repayable seed capital, the foundation continues its mission of strengthening Africa’s private sector and promoting economic self‑reliance across the continent.
About the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme
The Tony Elumelu Foundation is a leading African philanthropic organisation founded on the philosophy of Africapitalism — the belief that Africa’s private sector is the engine for long‑term economic transformation and development.
Since its launch in 2015, the foundation has supported over 20,000 entrepreneurs across all 54 African countries, helping them transform ideas into thriving businesses. The 2026 programme cycle continues this legacy by focusing on early‑stage entrepreneurs with innovative, impactful business ideas.
Benefits of the TEF Entrepreneurship Programme 2026
Selected participants will receive a comprehensive support package designed to improve business success and long‑term growth.
1. $5,000 Seed Capital
Successful applicants will receive $5,000 in non‑refundable seed funding to invest directly into their businesses for expansion, operations, product development, or market access.
2. Business Training
Entrepreneurs will undergo structured online business training via TEFConnect, covering essential areas such as:
- Business planning
- Financial management
- Marketing and branding
- Operations and growth strategies
3. Mentorship
Each participant will be paired with experienced business mentors who provide guidance, industry insights, and practical support throughout the programme.
4. Networking and Exposure
Entrepreneurs gain access to a powerful network of fellow founders, investors, partners, and global business opportunities, helping them scale beyond local markets.
Who Is Eligible to Apply
The TEF Entrepreneurship Programme 2026 is open to applicants who meet the following criteria:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Must be a citizen or legal resident of an African country
- Business must be based in Africa
- Business must be early‑stage (0–5 years old)
- Open to all sectors, including agriculture, technology, health, manufacturing, services, and creative industries
The programme strongly encourages applications from women entrepreneurs and founders from Francophone, Lusophone, and Arabic‑speaking African countries.
Application Deadline
Deadline: 1 March 2026 (11:59 PM GMT)
Only applications submitted before the deadline will be considered. Selection will be based on business feasibility, scalability, and potential social and economic impact.
How to Apply for the TEF Entrepreneurship Programme 2026
Follow the steps below to apply:
- Visit https://www.tefconnect.com/ and create an entrepreneur account
- Verify your email address to activate your dashboard
- Complete your personal and business profile
- Select the 2026 TEF Entrepreneurship Programme from available opportunities
- Fill out the application form with accurate business details
- Review and submit your application before the deadline
Important Notice
The Tony Elumelu Foundation does not charge any application or participation fees. Applicants are advised to apply only through the official TEFConnect platform and avoid third‑party agents or fraudulent websites.
This programme represents a unique opportunity for African entrepreneurs seeking funding, mentorship, and global exposure to build impactful businesses and contribute to economic growth across the continent.
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