The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) is leading a transformative initiative with a 10-year, 100-million-USD program. This extensive program aims to identify, train, mentor, and fund 10,000 African entrepreneurs by 2025.
Strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Africa
Participants who successfully join the program will benefit from 12 weeks of comprehensive online training. Additionally, they will receive support from a world-class mentor and seed capital of 5,000 USD to bring their business concepts to life, with opportunities for additional funding. Furthermore, they will have the privilege of connecting with TEF’s vast network of startups.
The Tony Elumelu Foundation’s entrepreneurship program represents a 100 million USD investment to help 10,000 African entrepreneurs. The initiative is designed to create at least 1 million jobs and contribute 10 billion USD to the African economy.
Through this flagship entrepreneurship program, the Foundation continues to empower entrepreneurs and strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem in 54 African countries.
How does the program work ?
The TEF training program is specifically designed to segment entrepreneurs based on their demonstrated capabilities and knowledge level.
This training is designed to equip participants with the necessary skills to start or grow their businesses, addressing the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs across the continent. The program emphasizes practical and iterative learning, ensuring its relevance and applicability long after the training period ends.
Program eligibility
Who can apply ?
The program is open to all citizens and legal residents of any of the 54 African countries. The proposed business must be registered and operational in Africa.
Is there an age limit for applicants ?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and not considered minors in their respective countries of residence. There is no upper age limit for applicants.
Are there any restrictions on the age of my business ?
All businesses must be either new ideas or start-up businesses between 0 and 5 years old.
What happens if I run multiple Start-Up businesses ?
Your application must focus on a single business. It is recommended to choose your most feasible and innovative business idea. Selected entrepreneurs are not allowed to re-apply for subsequent cohorts of the program, even with a different business idea or name.
Who is not eligible to participate in the TEF entrepreneurship program ?
- TEF audit partners and their immediate family members.
- Employees of Tony Elumelu Foundation-affiliated companies involved in the creation or administration of the program, and their immediate family members.
- Consultants and agents of the promoter (and employees and immediate family members of those employees when the consultants and agents are entities) are involved in the creation and administration of this program.
- Research institutions, faith-based organizations, and government agencies are not eligible to apply for the program.
- Applications from TEF alumni or their business partners.
- Applications from individuals disqualified from a previous TEF program.
- Applications are made using methods such as a macro, script, use of automated devices or processors, or other forms of digital tools to gain an unfair advantage.
- Applications containing illegal or unethical businesses or business ideas.
Program application process
How do I apply for the program ?
All applications must be completed and submitted online through the official application platform, [tefconnect.net](http://tefconnect.net/). Applicants must fill out an application form by answering a series of mandatory questions.
What happens after submission ?
Once your application is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email acknowledging receipt.
What if my business is a partnership ?
In the case of a partnership, only one designated person from the business or partnership can participate in the program. This person must obtain the consent of all partners and must hold an equal or majority stake in the business.
What if French or English is not my native language ?
The application form is also available in Arabic and Portuguese, ensuring accessibility for speakers of other languages.
What information or identification is required for the application ?
Applicants must complete all mandatory fields in the application form, providing accurate and up-to-date details.
Are there any fees associated with the application ?
No, the Tony Elumelu Foundation does not charge any fees for applying to the program.
