The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) is a leading African philanthropy committed to empowering entrepreneurs across the continent.
Since its inception in 2015, the TEF Entrepreneurship Programme has been instrumental in identifying, training, mentoring, and funding African entrepreneurs, fostering economic growth and job creation.
For the 2025 cycle, TEF continues its mission to support innovative business ideas and early-stage companies. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step approach to applying for the 2025 TEF grant, ensuring you navigate the process with ease.
Programmes Open for Application
For 2025, TEF has launched three distinct entrepreneurship programmes designed to address diverse business needs and sectors:
1. Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme
- Who can apply: Open to all African entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas or existing businesses not older than five years.
- Special focus: This year, TEF emphasizes businesses leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and green initiatives.
- Age requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
2. IYBA-WE4A Entrepreneurship Programme
- Partnership: This programme is a collaboration with the European Union (EU) and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).
- Who can apply: Exclusively for women entrepreneurs with green business ideas or existing green businesses operating in Senegal, Tanzania, Uganda, Cameroon, Kenya, Mozambique, Malawi, and Togo.
- Age requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old, with businesses not older than five years.
3. Aguka Ideation Programme
- Partnership: In collaboration with UNDP Rwanda and the Rwandan Ministry of Youths and Arts.
- Who can apply: Young Rwandan entrepreneurs aged 18–30 with innovative business ideas.
- Seed capital: Successful applicants will receive seed funding of $3,000 to develop their ideas into viable enterprises.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for any of the programmes, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: Open to African citizens and residents.
- Business Age: Only for new business ideas or businesses not exceeding five years in operation.
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old (up to 30 years for the Aguka Ideation Programme).
- Special Requirements: Some programmes have specific focuses, such as green initiatives, AI, and eligibility limited to specific countries.
Application Process
Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Create an Account on TEFConnect
- Visit the TEFConnect portal.
- Click on “Register” and provide the required personal and business details.
- Verify your email to activate your account.
- Complete the Application Form
- Log in to your TEFConnect account.
- Navigate to the application section and select the programme that aligns with your business goals.
- Provide accurate personal information, business details, and documents, such as proof of identity and business registration (if applicable).
- Submit the Application
- Review your application to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
- You will receive a confirmation email once your application is successfully submitted.
Application Timeline
- Application Opens: January 1, 2025
- Application Closes: March 1, 2025
- Programme Start Date: To be announced
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Programme Benefits
Successful applicants will gain access to the following benefits:
1. Seed Capital
- Tony Elumelu Foundation Programme: $5,000 non-refundable seed capital.
- Aguka Ideation Programme: $3,000 non-refundable seed capital.
2. World-Class Training
- 12 weeks of intensive online training on business management and entrepreneurship.
3. Mentorship
- Access to a network of experienced mentors who provide personalized guidance.
4. Networking Opportunities
- Join Africa’s largest entrepreneurial ecosystem to connect with other entrepreneurs, investors, and stakeholders.
Note: The application is free; TEF does not charge any fees at any stage of the process.
