The Tony Elumelu Foundation Grant 2026 is now open for applications, offering a powerful opportunity for African entrepreneurs to receive $5,000 in non-refundable seed funding, world-class business training, and access to one of Africa’s largest entrepreneurial networks.
The program is designed to stimulate economic development, reduce poverty, and create sustainable jobs across the continent.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the 2026 Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme, including eligibility, benefits, available tracks, and a step-by-step application process.
Tony Elumelu Foundation Grant 2026 – Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Organization | Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) |
| Program Type | Entrepreneurship Training & Grant |
| Eligible Countries | All African countries |
| Funding Amount | $5,000 (Non-refundable seed capital) |
| Additional Benefits | Business training, mentorship & networking |
| IELTS Required | No |
| Application Deadline | March 1, 2026 |
About the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF)
The Tony Elumelu Foundation was established in 2010 by Tony O. Elumelu, CON, a renowned African entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist. The foundation is built on the philosophy of AFRI capitalism—the belief that Africa’s private sector can drive economic transformation through long-term investment in entrepreneurs.
The TEF Entrepreneurship Programme focuses on empowering underserved communities, including women, youth, and informal sector entrepreneurs, by providing access to funding, skills, mentorship, and global markets.
Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programmes 2026
For the 2026 application cycle, the following TEF-supported programmes are available:
- TEF Flagship Entrepreneurship Programme
- Open to all African entrepreneurs
- Accepts business ideas or existing businesses
- Applicants must be 18 years or older
- IYBA-WE4A Entrepreneurship Programme
- Exclusively for women entrepreneurs
- Focus on green and environmentally sustainable businesses
- Eligible countries: Senegal, Tanzania, Uganda, Cameroon, Kenya, Mozambique, Malawi, and Togo
- Minimum age: 18 years
- Aguka Ideation Programme
- Open to Rwandan entrepreneurs
- Business must be at the idea stage
- Age requirement: 18–30 years
- BeGreen Africa Programme
- For entrepreneurs with green or eco-friendly businesses
- Open in Nigeria, Senegal, and South Africa
- Waste management businesses eligible in Kenya
- Age range: 18–35 years
Eligibility Requirements for Tony Elumelu Foundation Grant 2026
To qualify for the TEF Grant 2026, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an African country
- Be 18 years or older
- Have a business idea or an existing business
- Demonstrate commitment to business growth and impact
- Be willing to complete the mandatory 12-week business training
Benefits of the Tony Elumelu Foundation Grant 2026
Successful applicants will receive:
- $5,000 non-refundable seed funding
- 12 weeks of world-class business training
- Access to the TEF Alumni Network (15,000+ entrepreneurs)
- Mentorship and coaching from industry experts
- Networking and market access via TEFConnect
- Increased visibility and credibility for your business
How to Apply for the Tony Elumelu Foundation Grant 2026
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
- Visit the official Tony Elumelu Foundation application portal
- Create an account on TEFConnect
- Complete the online application form
- Submit your business idea or business details
- Enroll in the mandatory entrepreneurship training if shortlisted
Apply early to increase your chances of success. For more details, click here.
Important Application Deadline
Application Deadline: March 1, 2026
Late applications will not be considered.
Why You Should Apply for the TEF Grant
The Tony Elumelu Foundation Grant is more than funding—it is a complete entrepreneurship support system that equips African founders with the tools, skills, and network needed to build sustainable and scalable businesses.
If you are serious about growing your business and making an impact in Africa, this opportunity is highly recommended.
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