Applications for the 2025 Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme are now open. This initiative, which marked a decade of transformative impact in 2020, aims to equip a new wave of African business leaders with the tools and resources needed to succeed. Participants in this programme gain access to premium business training, professional mentorship, non-repayable seed funding of up to $5,000, and opportunities to network with peers and industry leaders worldwide. Both early-stage ventures and established small businesses from any sector across the African continent are invited to apply.

Who Can Apply

The TEF Entrepreneurship Programme seeks to identify exceptional African entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas or growing enterprises that demonstrate significant potential for expansion and impact. All African countries are eligible.

What Participants Receive

This programme offers specialized training designed to strengthen the skills of entrepreneurs, enabling them to overcome common business challenges across Africa. The educational framework emphasizes a hands-on, iterative approach, ensuring that participants continue to benefit long after the training ends.

Programme Structure and Expectations

The initiative comprises multiple stages, forming a comprehensive cycle:

1.Application Phase

Applicants must complete the necessary forms and meet the minimum requirements to progress. Those selected will be admitted into the TEF Business Management Training Programme, while those who do not qualify may access general training through TEFConnect and reapply for future opportunities.

2.Verification and Onboarding

Verification involves submitting relevant documents to confirm the applicant’s identity and business status. Any applicant failing to meet verification standards will be removed from the programme. Participation is strictly individual, though insights from the training can be shared with business partners for organizational growth.

3.Training and Assessment

Successful candidates undergo intensive business management training in multiple languages, including English, French, Portuguese, and Arabic. After completing this phase, participants will be assessed, and top performers will advance to the business plan development stage.

4.Business Plan Development

Participants will be given a structured template to draft their business plans, which will be evaluated based on feasibility and long-term sustainability. Those who excel will move to the pitching phase.

5.Pitching Stage

Shortlisted participants will present their business ideas to a panel of judges or submit video pitches. The best presentations will qualify for seed funding.

Seed Capital and Disbursement

Selected entrepreneurs will receive financial support through electronic transfers to their registered business bank accounts. While the programme aims to provide up to $5,000, banking fees or other deductions may apply. In cases where partners fund specific entrepreneurs, the terms of disbursement will align with the partners’ contributions and conditions. Payments will be processed within 60 days upon submission of complete documentation.

This programme represents a life-changing opportunity for African entrepreneurs to elevate their businesses and achieve sustainable growth. Don’t miss the chance to take part in this transformative journey.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached to apply for this opportunity