About

The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) is Africa’s leading philanthropy dedicated to empowering a new generation of African entrepreneurs. Through its flagship TEF Entrepreneurship Program, the foundation provides funding, training, and mentorship to startups and small businesses across all 54 African countries, with the mission of driving economic growth, eradicating poverty, and creating jobs. Each year, the TEF Entrepreneurship Program awards young African business owners with $5,000 in seed capital, access to vital business resources, and a network of mentors and peers. Since its inception in 2015, TEF has trained over 1.5 million young Africans via its digital platform, TEFConnect, and disbursed over $100 million to support 20,000 young entrepreneurs—who have, in turn, generated more than 400,000 direct and indirect jobs. TEF’s mission is rooted in the philosophy of Africapitalism, which positions African entrepreneurs and the private sector as essential drivers of social and economic development. Through its initiatives, TEF is committed to fostering women’s economic empowerment, catalyzing job creation, and creating sustainable, long-term growth across the continent.

Eligibility

• African entrepreneurs under 35