Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2026: Fully Funded in Europe

Introduction Empowering African Entrepreneurs

The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) is Africa’s largest entrepreneurship initiative, aimed at empowering the next generation of African business leaders. Since 2015, the foundation has supported over 21,000 entrepreneurs from across the continent, providing $100 million in seed capital, business training, and mentorship programs that have created over 1.5 million jobs.

The 2026 TEF Entrepreneurship Programme continues this legacy, offering African startups and aspiring entrepreneurs a chance to turn innovative ideas into thriving businesses. This guide provides everything you need to know to apply, qualify, and succeed.

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What Is the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme?

The TEF Entrepreneurship Programme is a 12-week online training and mentorship initiative that combines:

• Seed funding ($5,000 USD for each successful applicant)
• Mentorship from experienced African business leaders
• Networking opportunities with other entrepreneurs
• Access to TEFConnect, a platform to showcase your business

This program is designed for Africans aged 18–40 who have innovative business ideas or early-stage startups with potential for growth.

Eligibility Criteria for TEF 2026

Before applying, ensure you meet the following requirements:

1. Nationality: Applicants must be African nationals, residing in any African country.
2. Age: Between 18 and 40 years old.
3. Business Stage:
   • Early-stage startup (less than 3 years old) or
   • A business idea ready to launch
4. Business Sectors Accepted: Agriculture, Health, Technology, Manufacturing, Services, Energy, and other innovative sectors
5. No Prior Funding Restriction: Entrepreneurs may have received funding from other sources, but TEF funding must not have been previously awarded for the same business idea.

⚠️ Tip: Make sure your business plan is realistic and scalable. TEF favors ideas that can impact communities positively.

 How to Apply for the TEF 2026 Programme

Follow these step-by-step instructions to complete your application:

Step 1: Create a TEFConnect Account

• Visit TEFConnect
• Sign up with a valid email address
• Fill in your personal details accurately

Step 2: Prepare Your Application

• Write a clear business plan (500–1,000 words)
• Highlight your business model, target market, and projected impact
• Be concise, factual, and confident

Step 3: Complete Online Application

• Fill in TEF application form sections: personal info, business details, and vision statement
• Upload supporting documents (if required)
• Ensure no mistakes — double-check names, email, and business info

Step 4: Submit Before Deadline

• Applications for TEF 2026 close on March 1, 2026 (midnight GMT)
• Late or incomplete applications are automatically rejected

Step 5: Confirmation and Review

• Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation email
• TEF reviewers evaluate your application based on:
  • Business idea viability
  • Entrepreneurial skill
  • Community impact potential

⚡ Pro Tip: Start your application early to avoid last-minute errors.

 What Happens After You Apply?

If selected, you will go through:

1. 12-Week Business Training

   • Online modules covering marketing, finance, operations, and leadership
   • Interactive assignments and quizzes
   • Mentorship support from experienced entrepreneurs

2. Funding & Mentorship

   • $5,000 seed funding credited after completing training
   • Ongoing mentorship and guidance for 12 months
   • Networking opportunities to scale your business

3. Alumni Network

   • Access to a network of 21,000+ entrepreneurs
   • Opportunity to attend TEF events, workshops, and forums
   • Tips to Strengthen Your Application

• Be specific about your business problem and solution
• Highlight social impact, even for profit-focused ideas
• Avoid generic answers like “I want to make money”
• Show your commitment and past achievements (if any)
• Make your application scannable with short paragraphs and bullet points.

Common FAQs About TEF 2026

Q1: Is the $5,000 grant repayable?

✅ No. The grant is non-repayable seed funding.

Q2: Can I apply with only a business idea?

✅ Yes. TEF accepts both ideas and early-stage startups.

Q3: Are non-Africans eligible?

❌ No. Applicants must be African nationals residing in Africa.

Q4: When will results be announced?

📅 Selected entrepreneurs are notified within 6–8 weeks after the application deadline.

Q5: Do I need prior business experience?

❌ Not required, but demonstrating entrepreneurial skills or initiative helps.

Success Stories from Past TEF Cohorts

• Jane A., Kenya: Started an agritech startup, now employs 25 farmers and serves over 2,000 customers
• Abdul R., Nigeria: Founded a tech training company for youth, expanding to 3 states
• Fatima K., Ghana: Launched a solar energy company impacting 1,500 households

Including success stories makes your post more engaging and credible.

 

Conclusion

The Tony Elumelu Foundation 2026 Entrepreneurship Programme is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for African entrepreneurs to access funding, mentorship, and business training.

Whether you have a fresh business idea or an early-stage startup, this program can transform your vision into a scalable business.

Start your application today on TEFConnect, and take the first step toward building your African entrepreneurial legacy.

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