Entrepreneurship Programme and Seed Capital
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs Driving Africa’s Green Transformation
Investing in Young Businesses in Africa – Women Entrepreneurship for Africa (IYBA WE4A) initiative supports women entrepreneurs in Sub-Saharan Africa who are leading or aspiring to lead businesses that contribute to the green and sustainable transformation of their communities and economies.
The goal is to ensure that women entrepreneurs can set-up, develop, adapt, and scale their businesses - enhancing their competitiveness, income opportunities, and long-term sustainability.
Entrepreneurship Programme in Partnership with the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF)
The IYBA WE4A Entrepreneurship Programme, implemented through the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), provides a comprehensive package of entrepreneurship training, mentoring, networking, and seed capital.
The programme aims to support at least 4,000 women entrepreneurs across selected Sub-Saharan African countries through two cohorts in 2024/2025 and 2026.
What Participants Receive
- 8 weeks of intensive online business training, focused on building practical entrepreneurship skills in planning, management, and growth.
- Green Business Training supporting entrepreneurs to green their business models
- Tailored mentoring from experienced business coaches and professionals, matched to the entrepreneur’s stage and needs.
- Networking opportunities through the TEFConnect digital platform, the annual TEF Entrepreneurship Forum, and the TEF Alumni Network.
- Access to the IYBA WE4A Knowledge and Networking Gateway, connecting them with peers, learning resources, and new business opportunities.
Seed Capital for Growth
After completing the training and mentoring phase, participants pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges. Up to 1,800 successful entrepreneurs will each receive non-refundable seed capital of USD 5,000 (approximately EUR 5,000).
This funding helps meet their most urgent needs during the development, start-up, or early growth stage of their businesses. Seed capital disbursement is tied to business milestones and a solid business plan.
Long-Term Impact
Through this combination of training, mentoring, networking, and seed funding, women entrepreneurs strengthen their ability to:
- Plan, manage, and adapt their businesses.
- Improve products and business models.
- Access new markets and partnerships.
- Contribute to Africa’s transition toward green and inclusive growth.
All IYBA WE4A entrepreneurs become part of a growing pan-African community of women innovators, gaining continued access to:
- The Knowledge and Networking Gateway,
- Learning and networking events, and
- Opportunities under Ecosystem Support and Access to Finance.