The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme (TEEP) 2026 is a flagship initiative designed to empower young African entrepreneurs with the tools, funding, and networks needed to build and scale successful businesses. The programme supports both early-stage startups and existing young businesses operating across all sectors in Africa.
Through a combination of business training, mentorship, seed funding, and global exposure, the programme aims to unlock Africa’s entrepreneurial potential and drive sustainable economic growth across the continent.
About the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme
The Tony Elumelu Foundation has supported thousands of African entrepreneurs since launching the programme, creating jobs and strengthening local economies. TEEP focuses on practical entrepreneurship education and long-term capacity building, equipping participants with skills that remain valuable beyond the programme.
Successful participants gain access to:
- World-class business management training
- Experienced mentors and industry experts
- Non-refundable seed capital of up to $5,000
- Access to a pan-African and global business network
The programme is delivered through TEFConnect, the Foundation’s digital learning and networking platform.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to African entrepreneurs who meet the following criteria:
- Must be a citizen or legal resident of an African country
- Have a business idea or an existing business with strong growth potential
- Businesses may operate in any sector
- Startups and young businesses are both eligible
ALSO APPLY FOR:
DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) Scholarships 2026-27 in Germany
Benefits of the Programme
Participants selected for the 2026 cohort will receive:
- Comprehensive business management training tailored to African entrepreneurs
- Practical, step-by-step learning focused on real business challenges
- One-on-one mentorship and peer learning opportunities
- Access to global networking and investment readiness support
- Seed capital of up to $5,000 for selected entrepreneurs
The training is offered in English, French, Portuguese, and Arabic, ensuring accessibility across Africa.
Programme Stages and Selection Process
The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme follows a structured multi-stage process:
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Application and Selection
Applicants must complete the online application form and meet the minimum evaluation score to be admitted into the programme.
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Verification and Onboarding
Selected applicants undergo a verification process, which includes submitting documents to confirm identity and business status. Applicants who fail verification are removed from the programme.
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Business Management Training
Verified participants gain access to the TEF Business Management Training Programme, where progress is continuously monitored and assessed.
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Business Plan Development
Participants who complete the training receive a business plan template and must submit a completed plan for review based on feasibility and sustainability.
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Pitching Competition
Top-performing participants advance to a pitching stage, where they present their business ideas to a panel of judges or submit pitch videos.
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Seed Capital Disbursement
Entrepreneurs selected from the pitching stage receive seed capital through electronic transfer into their business bank accounts. Banking charges may apply, and partner-funded entrepreneurs may receive amounts based on partner commitments.
Participants who do not progress at any stage are notified via email and may still access general training resources on TEFConnect.
Important Notes
- Participants must personally complete all programme activities; business partners cannot participate on their behalf
- Entrepreneurs not selected for seed funding are classified as TEF Trainees and remain part of the TEF ecosystem
- Seed capital is non-refundable and intended strictly for business use
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme is March 1, 2026.
Why Apply for TEEP 2026?
The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme offers one of Africa’s most impactful entrepreneurship support platforms, combining funding, training, and mentorship into a single opportunity. It is ideal for entrepreneurs seeking not just capital, but also the knowledge and networks needed to grow sustainable businesses.
Learn More and Apply
For full programme details and application instructions, visit the official Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme webpage.
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