Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme (TEF) 2026 | Get $5,000 Seed Capital Grant
Opportunity Description
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 not older than five years. The programme supports entrepreneurs across diverse 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 powerful pan-African alumni network.
Eligibility Criteria
You are eligible for the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme if you meet the following conditions:
- You are African and at least 18 years old
- You live in Africa and plan to operate your business within Africa
- You have a business idea or an existing business not more than five years old
- You have not benefited from any previous TEF programme
- You apply only once during the application window
The programme enforces strict identity verification. All personal details on TEFConnect must match your government-issued identification.
Benefits of the Programme
The TEF Entrepreneurship Programme provides practical, real-world support to help businesses grow and succeed.
Key benefits include:
- Up to $5,000 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 gone on to build sustainable businesses, attract external funding, and expand across borders.
Documents Required
Prepare the following documents before applying:
For Application on TEFConnect:
- A valid government-issued ID showing 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)
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 notice.
- Due Diligence Phase: Independent experts verify identity, business details, and conduct global compliance checks.
- Shortlisting Phase: Entrepreneurs are assessed based on feasibility, market opportunity, scalability, financial understanding, and leadership capacity.
- Training Phase: Selected applicants undergo business training, coaching, and mentorship sessions on TEFConnect.
- Investment Readiness Phase: Participants submit a business plan, financial projections, and a pitch video for evaluation.
- Seed Capital Phase: Investment-ready entrepreneurs receive up to $5,000 after final verification and signing programme undertakings.
Tips for a Successful Application
To improve your chances of success:
- Clearly define the problem your business solves
- Explain your target market simply and accurately
- Demonstrate basic financial understanding
- Keep responses honest, clear, and concise
- Ensure all details match your ID on TEFConnect
- Complete the business assessment test carefully
Successful applicants typically show clarity, commitment, and strong growth potential.
Programme Structure
The programme follows a structured pathway:
- Application and screening
- Business training and mentorship
- Investment readiness support
- Seed capital disbursement
- Alumni network onboarding
This structure helps entrepreneurs move confidently from idea to execution.
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 considered. Applicants are advised to apply early to avoid technical issues on TEFConnect.
Method of Application (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps 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
