Tony Elumelu Foundation Opens Applications for 2026 Entrepreneurship Programme

Applications are now open for the 2026 Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme, offering a significant boost to aspiring African entrepreneurs. The programme provides $5,000 in non-refundable seed capital, alongside comprehensive business training, mentorship, and networking opportunities for emerging business leaders across the continent.

About the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme

Launched in 2015, the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s flagship entrepreneurship initiative aims to support African entrepreneurs in the early stages of their business journeys. The programme is rooted in the philosophy of Africapitalism, which emphasizes the crucial role of the private sector in driving Africa’s economic development and social progress.

Since its inception, the foundation has invested over $100 million in more than 20,000 entrepreneurs across all 54 African countries. These investments have facilitated business growth, job creation, and contributions to local economic development throughout the continent. The programme has trained 2.5 million Africans and generated over $4.2 billion in revenue .

The 2026 edition seeks to identify, train, mentor, and fund a novel cohort of young African entrepreneurs with innovative ideas or existing businesses demonstrating strong growth potential.

Programme Benefits

• $5,000 Non-Refundable Seed Capital: Each selected entrepreneur receives $5,000 to invest directly into their business operations, product development, or market expansion.
• World-Class Business Training: Participants gain access to 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, and scaling and sustainability.
• One-on-One Mentorship: Selected entrepreneurs are paired with experienced mentors who provide personalized guidance and practical insights, helping them refine their business models and overcome challenges.
• Networking and Market Access: The programme connects participants with a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts across Africa, fostering 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

Application Process

Applications for the 2026 Entrepreneurship Programme must be submitted online through the TEFConnect portal. The application process involves the following steps:

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

Applications are open from January 1 to March 1, 2026 .

Why This Programme Matters

The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme plays a vital role in strengthening Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. By providing funding, training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, the programme empowers entrepreneurs to build sustainable businesses that generate employment and stimulate economic growth. Women now make up 46% of TEF entrepreneurs, the highest female participation rate recorded by a programme of this scale .

For young innovators across the continent, this initiative offers more than financial support—it provides the tools, knowledge, and community needed to succeed in today’s competitive business landscape.

“Africa’s greatest asset is our people. Africa does not need aid; Africa needs investment, in infrastructure, in institutions, but most critically in our young. Through the Tony Elumelu Foundation, we show that when entrepreneurs are empowered, they create jobs, drive growth, and transform communities. Entrepreneurs are the future of Africa.” – Tony O. Elumelu, CFR, TEF Founder and Heirs Holdings Group Chairman .