Skip to content
Opportunities Readiness Score Plan generator CV builder Application assistant Expert review Pricing Am I eligible? Funding guides Sign in Create free account
Upcoming Grant

Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme 2027

Tony Elumelu Foundation · Private Foundation
Share:
NigeriaAgricultureTechnologyManufacturingTradeServicesHealthcare

About this opportunity

Non-refundable $5,000 USD seed capital plus business training and mentorship for African entrepreneurs under 3 years trading. Apply on TEFConnect; you must submit a business plan.

The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme is one of Africa's largest entrepreneur support initiatives, offering $5,000 USD non-refundable seed capital, business training, and mentorship to African entrepreneurs. It accepts 1,000 entrepreneurs per annual cohort across all 54 African countries including Nigeria. Applicants also gain access to the TEF alumni network and potential follow-on funding connections.

Who can apply

  • African entrepreneur aged 18 or above
  • Business registered and based in Africa (including Nigeria)
  • Startup or early-stage business under 3 years old
  • Nigerian nationals are fully eligible
  • Able to complete the online application on TEFConnect platform
  • Able to submit a written business plan

Not eligible

  • Businesses trading for more than 3 years (early-stage preferred)

Not sure you qualify? Check in 60 seconds

Documents you will need

  • Completed online application form on TEFConnect
  • Business plan document
  • Proof of business registration in your country
  • Personal identification (passport or national ID)
  • Bank account details for fund transfer

Missing a business plan or CV? Write one for this funder · Build your CV

How to apply, step by step

  1. Register or log in to the TEFConnect platform
  2. Complete all sections of the online application form with accurate business and personal details
  3. Prepare and upload your business plan (typically 5–15 pages covering market, financials, and operations)
  4. Review your application for completeness and accuracy before submission
  5. Submit your application before the deadline (rolling intake; check TEFConnect for current closing dates)
  6. Wait for notification of selection; successful applicants typically enter a cohort of 1,000 entrepreneurs annually
Save and track it and we will email you 14 days, 7 days, 3 days, 24 hours and on the morning of the deadline.

How applications are selected

Applications are assessed on the TEFConnect platform against the programme's eligibility criteria and the quality of your business plan. The Foundation selects 1,000 entrepreneurs per cohort across all 54 African countries. Successful applicants are notified and enrolled in the training and mentorship phase. The process typically takes several weeks from submission to notification.

What reviewers look for

  • Your business plan must show clear market demand and realistic financials; vague ideas or plans without numbers are rejected
  • Demonstrate that you understand your customer and can explain why they will buy from you
  • Show what stage your business is at now: prototyped, trading, or pre-launch; explain what the $5,000 will specifically do
  • Nigerian applicants should note that this is a continent-wide programme, so competition includes entrepreneurs from all 54 African countries
  • The Foundation prioritises businesses in agriculture, technology, manufacturing, trade, services and healthcare sectors

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply if my business is less than 6 months old?

Yes. The programme accepts startups and early-stage businesses. There is no minimum trading period stated, though under 3 years is preferred.

What currency is the $5,000 in, and how is it paid?

The amount is $5,000 USD non-refundable seed capital. Payment method and timing are confirmed after your application is accepted; funds are typically transferred to your bank account.

Do I get money just for being selected, or are there conditions?

Selection grants you the $5,000 non-refundable capital plus access to training and mentorship. You must engage with the programme's training and mentoring activities as a condition of access.

Is there a deadline, or can I apply anytime?

The programme runs on a rolling basis with multiple cohorts per year. Check the TEFConnect platform for the current application window and closing date for your preferred cohort.

What happens after the $5,000 and training end?

You join the TEF alumni network and may be considered for follow-on funding or investor connections, though this is not guaranteed with the initial grant.

Guide written from the official programme page on 15 October 2026. Funders change their rules, so confirm the details on the official page before you apply.

How GrantPilot can help you apply

Application Assistant

Eligibility check, answers, cover letter & checklist.

Generate a plan

Business plan or proposal written for this funder.

Readiness Score

Score your draft against this opportunity.

Similar opportunities

VC / Investor NEWOpen

IFC SME Ventures — Equity Investment in African SMEs

International Finance Corporation (IFC) verified

IFC SME Ventures is a blended-finance equity fund that invests directly into high-growth SMEs and SME-focused funds across Sub-Saharan Africa, with a…

Nigeria Ghana+5AgricultureTechnology
$500,000 – $3,000,000 Rolling
Details Apply now