The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) has officially opened applications for its 2025 Entrepreneurship Programme, marking yet another year of empowering African entrepreneurs. This initiative is a game-changer for anyone looking to turn their innovative ideas into thriving businesses.
With funding, mentorship, and world-class training on offer, this programme provides an unparalleled opportunity to kickstart or scale your entrepreneurial journey. If you’re ready to take the leap, here’s everything you need to know about applying for the TEF 2025 Programme.
What is the Tony Elumelu Foundation?
The Tony Elumelu Foundation was established by Nigerian entrepreneur and philanthropist Tony Elumelu with a clear vision: to empower Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through a $100 million commitment over ten years, the foundation aims to identify, train, fund, and mentor 10,000 entrepreneurs across the continent. By doing so, it hopes to create millions of jobs and drive sustainable economic growth.
The TEF Entrepreneurship Programme is at the heart of this mission, offering life-changing support to entrepreneurs who are ready to transform their communities and industries.
Who can apply?
The TEF 2025 Programme is open to all citizens and legal residents of Africa’s 54 countries. Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of application. The programme welcomes both aspiring entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas and those who already have businesses that are no older than five years.
This year, the foundation is placing special emphasis on businesses that leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) and those that focus on environmentally sustainable or “green” initiatives. If your business idea aligns with these focus areas, your chances of being selected could be even higher.
What do you stand to gain?
The benefits of being selected for the TEF 2025 Programme are immense. First and foremost, successful applicants will receive $5,000 in non-refundable seed capital, which can be used to kickstart or grow their businesses. Beyond funding, participants will undergo a 12-week business management training programme, designed to equip them with essential skills in entrepreneurship, strategy, and financial management.
Additionally, participants will gain access to a vast network of over 15,000 alumni from previous TEF cohorts. This network serves as a valuable resource for mentorship, collaboration, and inspiration. Entrepreneurs will also have access to TEFConnect, Africa’s largest digital platform for entrepreneurs, where they can connect with mentors, investors, and peers from across the continent.
How to apply
Applying for the TEF 2025 Programme is straightforward but requires careful preparation. Here’s how you can ensure your application stands out:
- Prepare Your Documents: Before starting your application, gather all necessary documents. This includes a valid government-issued ID (such as a passport or national ID card). If your business is already registered, ensure you have your registration certificate and proof of ownership handy.
- Access the Application Portal: Applications must be submitted through TEFConnect, the foundation’s digital platform. Visit tefconnect.net to access the portal. The application window opens on January 1, 2025, and closes at midnight on March 1, 2025. It’s always better to apply early to avoid any last-minute technical issues.
- Complete the Application Form: The application form will ask detailed questions about your business idea or existing venture. Be sure to clearly articulate your vision and explain how your business will create jobs or positively impact your community. Highlight what makes your idea innovative or unique—this is your chance to stand out!
- Submit Your Application: Once you’ve completed all sections of the form, review your answers carefully before submitting them. After submission, you should receive a confirmation email acknowledging receipt of your application. If you don’t see this email in your inbox, check your spam folder or contact TEF support immediately.
One of the most important things to note is that there are absolutely no fees associated with applying for this programme. If anyone asks you for money in exchange for assistance with your application or promises guaranteed selection, it’s a scam—report it immediately.Additionally, applicants are only allowed to submit one application per cycle. This means you’ll need to carefully choose which business idea or venture you want to focus on before applying.
Why you should apply
The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme isn’t just about funding—it’s about building a community of African entrepreneurs who are driving change across industries and borders. By participating in this programme, you’ll gain access to invaluable resources that can help you overcome challenges and scale your business faster than you ever imagined.
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur with an innovative idea or someone looking to grow an existing venture into something extraordinary, this programme offers everything you need: funding, training, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
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