Are you an African entrepreneur looking for business grants to scale your startup? The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme is one of the best incubator programs offering business grants in Africa, committed to identifying, training, mentoring, and funding 10,000 African entrepreneurs by 2025.
This initiative, backed by a $100 million investment, is not just about funding—it’s about creating sustainable businesses that will generate at least 1 million jobs and contribute over $10 billion to the African economy.
If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur in Africa looking for the right support to launch or scale your business, this is your chance.
What You’ll Get as a TEF Entrepreneur
Entrepreneurs selected for the 2025 TEF Programme will receive:
- 12 weeks of intensive online training to build business skills and knowledge.
- One-on-one mentorship from top business leaders.
- $5,000 seed capital to validate and grow your business idea.
- Networking opportunities with fellow startups and investors through the TEFConnect platform.
- Potential access to further funding for high-impact businesses.
Who Can Apply?
- Citizens and legal residents of any of the 54 African countries.
- Entrepreneurs with a business idea or an early-stage company (0-5 years old).
- Must be at least 18 years old (no upper age limit).
- The business must be registered and operating in Africa.
- Only one business per applicant—you must choose your most promising venture.
Application & Selection Process
Step 1: Online Application
Submit your application through the TEFConnect platform before the deadline. You’ll need to provide key details about your business and complete mandatory questions.
Step 2: Training & Mentorship
If selected, you’ll undergo a 12-week intensive business training program to refine your idea and develop a solid business plan.
Step 3: Business Plan Submission & Pitching
Participants will submit their final business plans for assessment. Top-performing entrepreneurs will move on to a Pitching Competition to present their ideas to expert judges.
Step 4: Seed Capital Disbursement
Winning entrepreneurs will receive $5,000 seed funding via electronic transfer to scale their businesses.
Application Deadline: 1st March 2025
If you’re serious about transforming your business idea into reality, don’t miss this opportunity.
Why Choose the TEF Business Grant?
The Tony Elumelu Foundation’s $5,000 business grant is not just about funding—it’s a comprehensive startup incubator program that provides mentorship, training, and networking opportunities to help entrepreneurs succeed.