The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), a leading philanthropy dedicated to empowering African entrepreneurs, has opened applications for its 2026 TEF Entrepreneurship Programme. The initiative invites ambitious founders from all 54 African countries to apply for an opportunity that includes seed capital, comprehensive business training, and mentorship. The programme is rooted in the philosophy of Africapitalism, which posits that Africa's private sector is the most effective engine for long-term development, aiming to drive poverty eradication, catalyse job creation, and advance inclusive economic growth across the continent.
Program Benefits
• Seed Capital: Successful entrepreneurs receive US$5,000 in non-refundable seed capital to start or scale their businesses.
• Business Training: Participants undergo a world-class, intensive business training programme designed to build practical entrepreneurial and management skills through iterative learning.
• Mentorship: Access to experienced mentors who provide guidance throughout the entrepreneurial journey.
• Networking Opportunities: Direct access to Africa’s largest entrepreneurship ecosystem and global networking opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
• Target Audience: The programme identifies outstanding African entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas or existing ventures with strong growth potential.
• Geographic Scope: Open to entrepreneurs from all 54 African countries.
• Business Stage: Applications are accepted from both early-stage start-ups and existing young businesses.
• Sector: Open to businesses operating across all sectors.
Application and Selection Process
• Application: Applicants must complete the application form via TEFConnect. Applicants who are not selected may be directed to general business training resources and can apply for future TEF programmes.
• Business Training & Assessment: Shortlisted applicants gain access to the TEF Business Management Training Programme™, delivered in English, French, Portuguese, and Arabic. Participants are assessed based on engagement and performance throughout the training.
• Independent Review & Selection: Applications are evaluated through a rigorous, transparent process anchored by independent third-party reviewers. Selection is based on defined criteria such as feasibility, sustainability, market opportunity, and potential impact.
• Seed Capital Disbursement: Entrepreneurs selected at the end of the process are notified and receive the US$5,000 seed capital via electronic transfer to their business bank accounts.
Key Dates and Application Details
• Application Period: January 1, 2026 – March 1, 2026.
• Application Portal: Applications must be submitted through the official platform at www.TEFConnect.com.
Foundation’s Impact
• Entrepreneurs Funded: Over 24,000 entrepreneurs supported since 2015.
• Individuals Trained: More than 2.5 million Africans have benefited from TEF’s training initiatives.
• Job Creation: TEF-supported businesses have contributed to the creation of over 1.5 million jobs.
• Revenue Generation: Supported enterprises have generated more than US$4.2 billion in revenue.
• Inclusive Growth: The programme demonstrates strong inclusivity, with women accounting for approximately 46% of TEF entrepreneurs.
The TEF Entrepreneurship Programme continues to be a transformative force, reinforcing the belief that empowering African entrepreneurs is a critical investment in the continent’s future. Through strategic partnerships with global and regional institutions, the foundation amplifies its reach and impact, enabling entrepreneurs to build sustainable businesses that create jobs, drive economic growth, and transform communities across Africa.