Tony Elumelu foundation opens applications for 2026 entrepreneurship programme

The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) has officially opened applications for its 2026 TEF Entrepreneurship Programme, inviting ambitious young founders from all 54 African countries to apply via TEFConnect.

Successful applicants will receive US$5,000 in non-refundable seed capital, intensive business training, mentorship, and direct access to Africa’s largest entrepreneurship network. 

Since its inception in 2015, the programme has supported over 24,000 entrepreneurs, trained 2.5 million Africans, created more than 1.5 million jobs, and generated over US$4.2 billion in revenue, highlighting the transformative potential of African entrepreneurship.

The initiative has also made significant strides in promoting inclusive growth, with women now representing 46 per cent of TEF entrepreneurs the highest female participation rate recorded by a programme of this scale.

Speaking on the 2026 launch, TEF Founder and Heirs Holdings Group Chairman, Tony O. Elumelu, CFR, emphasized the importance of investing in Africa’s youth. 

“Africa does not need aid; Africa needs investment in infrastructure, in institutions, but most critically in our young. 

Through the Tony Elumelu Foundation, we show that when entrepreneurs are empowered, they create jobs, drive growth, and transform communities. Entrepreneurs are the future of Africa,” he said.

Applications for the 2026 TEF Entrepreneurship Programme are open from January 1 to March 1, 2026, on www.TEFConnect.com.