Tony Elumelu Foundation 2026 Entrepreneurship Programme: Empowering African Innovators
The **Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme** continues its flagship initiative in 2026 to support and empower African entrepreneurs. Now in its second decade, this pan-African programme provides training, mentorship, funding and networks to young innovators across the continent.
Quick Insight:
The 2026 cycle of the programme offers non-refundable seed capital, robust business training, expert mentorship and access to a vast entrepreneurial ecosystem — all designed to help entrepreneurs launch and scale high-impact ventures.
What the Programme Offers
• **Seed Funding:** Selected participants receive a **non-refundable grant of $5,000** to grow or launch their businesses.
• **Business Training:** Beneficiaries undergo a **12-week intensive business management curriculum** covering strategy, finances, marketing, and growth.
• **Mentorship:** Entrepreneurs are paired with experienced mentors who guide them through execution and scaling.
• **Networking & Market Access:** Participants gain access to a broad network of investors, industry leaders, and potential partners across Africa and beyond.
Who Can Apply
• The programme is open to **citizens and legal residents of all 54 African countries**.
• Applicants must be **18 years or older**.
• Eligible candidates must have a **scalable business idea or an existing startup** that has been operating for **no more than five years**.
• Businesses must be registered and operate in Africa, and focus on innovative, growth-oriented sectors.
Application Timeline and How It Works
• The application window for the 2026 cycle runs from early January to **March 1, 2026**.
• Applicants submit their proposals through the foundation’s digital platform, where they are evaluated across business feasibility, innovation potential, and market impact.
• Following selection, entrepreneurs begin training, mentorship, and networking activities ahead of seed capital disbursement.
Final Thoughts
The Tony Elumelu Foundation’s 2026 Entrepreneurship Programme continues its mission to unlock Africa’s entrepreneurial potential by providing funding, education, and networks to a new generation of founders. By empowering innovators across sectors like technology, agribusiness, green economy and AI-driven ventures, the programme seeks to drive sustainable economic growth and job creation across the continent.
