Opportunity type: Entrepreneurship programme with seed capital
Where: All 54 African countries
Application window: 1 January 2026 to 1 March 2026
Official application platform: TEFConnect
At a glance
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Seed capital: Up to US$5,000 (non-returnable).
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Support: Online business training, Mentorship, and Access to the TEF network.
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Who it is for: African entrepreneurs with a business idea or an early-stage business operating in Africa.
What selected applicants receive
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Structured online training and mentorship during the programme cycle.
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Seed capital funding with conditions attached to completion of required steps.
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Ongoing access to the TEF entrepreneurship community through TEFConnect.
Eligibility basics
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Applicants must be African, 18 years and above, with the legal right to work in the country where the business is located.
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The business must operate in Africa and the applicant must be a legal resident of one of the 54 African countries.
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Certain categories are excluded, including businesses not located in Africa and businesses over three years old.
Important funding and process notes
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The Seed capital is described as the equivalent of US$5,000, paid into a business bank account after completing the training and meeting documentation requirements.
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Applicants are not required to make a purchase or payment to submit an application.
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Only one application is permitted per applicant.
How to apply
Applications are submitted online through TEFConnect during the application window.
Source
Tony Elumelu Foundation Press Release announcing the 2026 programme and the TEF programme terms.