Tony Elumelu Foundation opens 2026 entrepreneurship programme for African innovators
The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) has opened applications for its 2026 Entrepreneurship Programme. Since its launch, the initiative has supported over 24,000 entrepreneurs across Africa, disbursing more than $100 million in seed funding. The programme aims to empower young business leaders with training, mentorship, and financial backing to drive economic growth on the continent.
The TEF Entrepreneurship Programme offers a 12-week structured business training course on its digital platform, TEFConnect. Participants also receive mentorship from global business leaders and access to a pan-African network of entrepreneurs. Selected applicants are awarded US$5,000 in non-refundable seed capital to kickstart or expand their small business ideas.
To qualify, African entrepreneurs aged 18 or older must submit a business idea or an unregistered venture via the official TEF portal. The programme has already made a significant impact, generating $4.2 billion in revenue and creating over 1.5 million jobs. It has also lifted 2.1 million people out of poverty, with 45% of beneficiaries being women. In addition to its African focus, TEF has launched a separate 2026 Entrepreneur Program for Canada. Eligible candidates must have at least CAD 300,000 in start-up capital (or CAD 200,000 for teams of two or more) and a viable business plan that creates jobs in Canada. Applications for this programme will be accepted from January 15 to March 1, 2026, with selection based on innovation and business potential. Through TEFConnect, over 2.5 million young Africans have already gained access to business resources and networking opportunities. The foundation continues to expand its reach, fostering entrepreneurship as a tool for economic transformation across the continent.
The TEF Entrepreneurship Programme has already funded thousands of businesses, contributing to job creation and poverty reduction. With applications now open for 2026, the foundation remains committed to supporting the next generation of African entrepreneurs. Successful candidates will join a growing network of innovators driving change in their communities.
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