Applications are officially open for the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme (TEEP) 2026, recognized as one of Africa’s most impactful funding and capacity-building initiatives for young entrepreneurs. Offering non-refundable seed capital up to $5,000, the programme enriches participants with world-class business training, mentorship, and invaluable global networking opportunities for African founders across diverse sectors.
Since its inception, the Tony Elumelu Foundation has supported thousands of entrepreneurs, reinforcing its mission to empower African businesses and drive economic transformation across the continent.
What Is the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme?
The TEF Entrepreneurship Programme is a flagship initiative aimed at identifying, training, mentoring, and funding high-potential African entrepreneurs. This programme welcomes startups, early-stage businesses, and individuals with promising business ideas from any industry. Participants benefit from the Foundation’s proprietary TEF Business Management Training Programme, which emphasizes practical, real-world skills tailored to address unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs in Africa.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme 2026?
Eligibility criteria for TEEP 2026 are designed to be inclusive, ensuring a wide range of aspiring entrepreneurs can participate:
- Applicants must be African citizens or legal residents.
- They should have a viable business idea or an existing business with growth potential.
- There are no restrictions based on the sector of operation.
- Participants must be committed to independently completing all programme stages.
- Accurate documentation must be submitted for verification.
This comprehensive eligibility ensures that entrepreneurs across all African nations have a fair chance to benefit from the programme.
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Key Benefits of the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme
Successful applicants in TEEP 2026 will enjoy numerous advantages, including:
- Access to non-refundable seed capital up to $5,000.
- 12 weeks of intensive business training tailored to practical applications.
- One-on-one mentorship from industry experts.
- Networking opportunities that elevate visibility on a global scale.
- Membership access to TEFConnect, the Foundation’s digital ecosystem.
- Long-term skills that extend beyond the duration of the programme.
The training curriculum is available in English, French, Portuguese, and Arabic, making it accessible to diverse populations across Africa.
Programme Stages and Selection Process
The TEEP follows a structured process designed to evaluate applicants thoroughly:
- Application & Screening
- Verification and Onboarding
- Business Management Training
- Business Plan Development
- Pitching Competition
- Seed Capital Disbursement
Only those who score highly in the pitching stage will receive funding. For entrepreneurs who do not progress, there remains an opportunity to access general business training and reapply in future cycles, fostering a spirit of resilience and growth.
Seed Capital Disbursement Explained
Entrepreneurs selected after the pitching stage will receive their seed capital via electronic transfer to their business bank accounts. While the maximum funding is $5,000, the final amount disbursed may be slightly lower due to potential banking charges. Different funding amounts may apply for partner-funded entrepreneurs, and details will be communicated directly to them.
Application Deadline and How to Apply
To enhance their chances of success, applicants should prepare strong business ideas and ensure they complete all stages of the application process comprehensively. The deadline for TEEP 2026 applications is March 1, 2026.
FAQ
What is the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme?
It is a pan-African entrepreneurship initiative providing training, mentorship, and up to $5,000 seed capital to African entrepreneurs.
Is the Tony Elumelu Foundation grant free?
Yes, the seed capital is non-refundable and does not require equity or repayment.
How much funding does TEEP 2026 offer?
Successful entrepreneurs can receive up to $5,000 in seed capital.
Who can apply for the Tony Elumelu Foundation Programme?
Any African entrepreneur with a viable business idea or an early-stage business in any sector can apply.
What is the deadline for TEEP 2026 applications?
The deadline is March 1, 2026.
Is the Tony Elumelu Foundation Programme open to all African countries?
Yes, it is open to entrepreneurs across all African nations.
Do I need a registered business to apply?
No, both business ideas and existing businesses are eligible.
How are beneficiaries selected?
Selection is based on performance in application scores, training effectiveness, quality of business plans, and results from the pitching competition.
How is the seed capital paid?
Funds are disbursed via electronic transfer to the entrepreneur’s business bank account.
Can unsuccessful applicants reapply?
Yes, unsuccessful applicants can access general training and reapply in future programme cycles.
