Tony Elumelu 2026 Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme ( How to apply)

The 2026 Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme is officially live on TEFConnect, offering African entrepreneurs the opportunity to access structured business training, mentorship, and funding support to start or scale their businesses.

Hosted on TEFConnect, the official platform of the **, this programme continues the Foundation’s long-standing mission of empowering entrepreneurs as a catalyst for Africa’s economic transformation.

Programme Status on TEFConnect

According to the TEFConnect programme page:

• Start Date: 01 January 2026
• Closing Date: 01 March 2026
• Application Status: Open
• Application Mode: Online via TEFConnect

Applicants must complete their application on or before 1 March 2026. Late submissions are not accepted.

About the 2026 TEF Entrepreneurship Programme

The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme is a continent-wide initiative designed to support early-stage African entrepreneurs with viable business ideas or existing businesses. The programme focuses on building strong business fundamentals, improving financial literacy, and helping entrepreneurs position their ventures for growth and sustainability.

All applications, training modules, programme updates, and announcements are managed strictly through TEFConnect.

Who Can Apply?

Based on the eligibility guidance displayed on TEFConnect:

• Applicants must be African citizens or legal residents of African countries
• Applicants may be students, graduates, or working professionals
• Students are allowed to apply if they meet the programme’s eligibility criteria
• Applicants must have a business idea or an existing business
• Valid identification documents are required during the application process

TEFConnect confirms that student ID may be used, provided the applicant meets all other programme requirements and submits valid identification as requested.

What the Programme Offers

Participants selected into the 2026 TEF Entrepreneurship Programme gain access to:

• Structured online business training hosted on TEFConnect
• Practical entrepreneurial learning covering business planning, operations, finance, and market strategy
• Access to mentorship and entrepreneurial support networks
• Exposure to additional opportunities and ecosystem partnerships hosted on TEFConnect

The programme is designed to support entrepreneurs at different stages while building long-term capacity and impact.

Benefits of TEF program

1. Free online business training covering entrepreneurship, finance, and marketing
   Practical mentorship from experienced African entrepreneurs and business experts
   
2. Access to the TEFConnect platform for learning, tools, and business resources
   
3. Networking opportunities with entrepreneurs across Africa
   Business visibility and growth support within the TEF ecosystem
   
4. Open to students and early-stage entrepreneurs with viable business ideas
   
5. No application or registration fee

Other Programmes on TEFConnect

TEFConnect also confirms that multiple programmes may be open within the same year, depending on timelines. As shown in the TEFConnect FAQ section, programmes that may run alongside the Entrepreneurship Programme include:

• Women Entrepreneurship for Africa initiatives
• Sector-focused entrepreneurship programmes
• Green and sustainability-focused entrepreneurship programmes

Applicants are advised to review each programme’s description, eligibility criteria, and timelines directly on TEFConnect before applying.

How to Apply for the 2026 Programme

To apply successfully:

1. Visit the official TEFConnect website
2. Create or log in to your TEFConnect account
3. Navigate to the Programmes section
4. Select the 2026 Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme
5. Click “Start Programme”
6. Complete the online application form and submit all required information

There is no registration or application fee required at any stage of the TEF application process.

Important Application Notes

• Only applications submitted through TEFConnect are valid
• Applicants should ensure all information provided is accurate
• Programme deadlines are strictly enforced
• Applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute issues

TEFConnect also provides a “Notice Board” and email subscription feature to help applicants stay updated on programme announcements and opportunities.

FAQs

Is the 2026 TEF Entrepreneurship Programme open?
Yes. The programme is open from 1 January 2026 to 1 March 2026, as displayed on TEFConnect.

Can students apply for the programme?
Yes. Students can apply if they meet the eligibility criteria and provide valid identification documents.

Is there an application fee?
No. TEFConnect confirms there is no registration or application fee.

Can I apply for more than one programme?
Applicants are advised to review individual programme guidelines on TEFConnect to determine eligibility for multiple programmes.

Where will training take place?
All training and programme activities are conducted online via TEFConnect.