Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme (TEF) 2026 | Get $5,000 Seed Capital Grant

 

About the Programme

The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme is designed to empower African entrepreneurs through business training, mentorship, and non-refundable seed capital of up to $5,000. The programme is delivered via TEFConnect, the Foundation’s digital learning and application platform.

 

The 2026 edition targets young Africans with innovative business ideas or existing businesses that are not more than five years old. The programme supports entrepreneurs across a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, technology, health, education, manufacturing, fashion, and more.

 

Participants benefit from structured business training, one-on-one mentorship, investment-readiness support, and access to a strong pan-African alumni network.

 

 

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Eligibility Criteria

 

You are eligible for the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme if you meet the following requirements:

 

You are African and at least 18 years old

 

You live in Africa and intend to operate your business within Africa

 

You have a business idea or an existing business not older than five years

 

You have not benefited from any previous TEF programme

 

You apply only once during the application window

 

 

The programme applies strict identity verification. All personal details on TEFConnect must exactly match your government-issued identification.

 

 

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Benefits of the Programme

 

The TEF Entrepreneurship Programme offers practical, real-world support to help entrepreneurs build, grow, and sustain their businesses.

 

Key benefits include:

 

Up to $5,000 in non-refundable seed capital

 

Comprehensive business and financial management training

 

Mentorship from experienced African and global business leaders

 

Investment-readiness coaching and pitch development

 

Membership in the TEF Alumni Network of over 21,000 entrepreneurs

 

 

Many beneficiaries have successfully built sustainable businesses, attracted external funding, and expanded across borders.

 

 

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Documents Required

 

Applicants are advised to prepare the following documents before applying:

 

For Application on TEFConnect:

 

A valid government-issued ID displaying your photograph and date of birth

 

A clear, high-resolution passport-style photograph

 

 

For Seed Capital Disbursement:

 

Government-issued ID matching your TEFConnect profile

 

Business registration certificate

 

Proof of tax registration in the business name

 

Business bank reference letter

 

Partner consent form (for businesses with co-owners)

 

Medical report (for applicants living with disabilities)

 

 

 

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Selection Process

 

The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme follows a transparent six-phase selection process:

 

Application Phase: Applicants submit their forms and documents on TEFConnect and receive an instant eligibility notification.

 

Due Diligence Phase: Independent experts verify identity and business details and conduct global compliance checks.

 

Shortlisting Phase: Entrepreneurs are evaluated based on feasibility, market opportunity, scalability, financial understanding, and leadership capacity.

 

Training Phase: Selected applicants participate in business training, coaching, and mentorship sessions on TEFConnect.

 

Investment Readiness Phase: Participants submit a business plan, financial projections, and a pitch video for assessment.

 

Seed Capital Phase: Investment-ready entrepreneurs receive up to $5,000 after final verification and signing programme undertakings.

 

 

 

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Tips for a Successful Application

 

To increase your chances of success:

 

Clearly explain the problem your business solves

 

Describe your target market in a simple and accurate manner

 

Demonstrate basic financial understanding

 

Keep responses honest, clear, and concise

 

Ensure all personal and business details match your ID on TEFConnect

 

Complete the business assessment test carefully

 

 

Successful applicants typically demonstrate clarity, commitment, and strong growth potential.

 

 

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Programme Structure

 

The programme follows a clearly defined pathway:

 

Application and screening

 

Business training and mentorship

 

Investment readiness support

 

Seed capital disbursement

 

Alumni network onboarding

 

 

This structure enables entrepreneurs to progress confidently from idea to execution.

 

 

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Application Deadline

 

Applications for the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme 2026 open on 1 January 2026 and close at midnight on 14 January 2026.

 

Late applications will not be accepted. Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early to avoid technical issues on TEFConnect.

 

 

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Method of Application (Step-by-Step)

 

Follow the steps below to apply:

 

Step 1: Visit www.TEFConnect.com

 

Step 2: Create an account using a valid email address

 

Step 3: Complete your personal profile accurately

 

Step 4: Provide clear and detailed business information

 

Step 5: Review all entries carefully

 

Step 6: Submit your application on TEFConnect

 

 

Application Window: 1 January 2026 – 14 January 2026

 

Apply here

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