The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), in partnership with the European Union (EU), Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the Investing in Young Businesses in Africa: Women Entrepreneurship for Africa (IYBA WE4A) Programme.
This transformative initiative is designed to empower women entrepreneurs across Africa by providing seed capital, training, mentorship, and access to networks to scale their green and sustainable businesses.
Applications are open from October 6, 2025, to January 25, 2026
About the IYBA WE4A Programme
The Women Entrepreneurship for Africa (WE4A) initiative is part of the broader Investing in Young Businesses in Africa (IYBA) strategy. It aims to foster inclusive economic growth by strengthening women-led enterprises in Africa’s growing green economy.
The programme is implemented by the Tony Elumelu Foundation, leveraging its extensive experience in empowering African entrepreneurs through the TEF Entrepreneurship Programme.
Through WE4A, participants will gain access to:
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$5,000 in seed capital to grow their businesses
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World-class training tailored to women entrepreneurs
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Personalized mentorship from experienced business leaders
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Networking opportunities with African and global partners
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Visibility and access to investors and markets
Who Can Apply
Applications are open to women entrepreneurs from the following African countries:
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Cameroon
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Kenya
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Malawi
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Mozambique
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Senegal
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Tanzania
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Togo
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Uganda
Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
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Be a female founder or co-founder of a business operating in one of the eligible countries.
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Run a green or environmentally sustainable business, or have a business idea contributing to climate action, renewable energy, recycling, waste management, or sustainable agriculture.
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Be at least 18 years old.
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Have a business registered for no more than five years at the time of application.
Programme Benefits
Participants of the IYBA WE4A Programme will receive comprehensive support designed to accelerate business growth and impact:
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Seed Funding:
Each selected entrepreneur will receive $5,000 in non-refundable seed capital to support business expansion or innovation. -
Business Management Training:
Participants will undergo a practical and interactive entrepreneurship curriculum delivered via the TEFConnect platform. -
Mentorship and Coaching:
Access to a network of mentors providing tailored guidance on business strategy, leadership, finance, and sustainability. -
Networking and Partnerships:
Opportunities to engage with investors, corporate partners, and fellow entrepreneurs across Africa and beyond. -
Visibility and Advocacy:
Featured exposure on the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s platforms, media opportunities, and participation in high-level events promoting women-led entrepreneurship.
How to Apply
Eligible applicants can apply online at www.TEFConnect.com.
Application timeline:
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Opening date: October 6, 2025
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Closing date: January 25, 2026
Applicants are encouraged to complete and submit their forms well before the deadline to avoid last-minute challenges.
Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed based on:
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Innovation and sustainability of the business idea
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Potential for social and environmental impact
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Feasibility and growth potential
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Leadership and entrepreneurial motivation
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in further assessments, training, and mentoring phases before receiving seed capital.
Why Apply to WE4A
The IYBA WE4A Programme offers more than just funding—it is a gateway to growth, sustainability, and long-term success. By joining WE4A, women entrepreneurs gain the tools, resources, and visibility needed to scale their ventures, create jobs, and contribute to Africa’s economic transformation.
This initiative reflects the shared vision of TEF and its partners to create an enabling ecosystem for women-led enterprises, drive inclusive growth, and build resilient, green African economies.
Key Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October 6, 2025 |
| Applications Close | January 25, 2026 |
| Evaluation Period | February – March 2026 |
| Programme Launch | April 2026 |
About the Tony Elumelu Foundation
The Tony Elumelu Foundation is the leading champion of entrepreneurship in Africa. Since 2010, TEF has empowered more than 21,000 entrepreneurs and supported over 2.5 million young Africans through its digital platform, TEFConnect.
Its mission is to empower African entrepreneurs to transform the continent by driving job creation, poverty reduction, and sustainable economic development.
Apply Now
If you are a woman entrepreneur in Cameroon, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo, or Uganda, this is your opportunity to take your business to the next level.
Applications are open from October 6, 2025, to January 25, 2026.
Visit www.TEFConnect.com to apply.
