Applications are now open for an initiative designed to help women entrepreneurs grow green and sustainable businesses across Africa. The Investing in Young Businesses in Africa: Women Entrepreneurship for Africa (IYBA WE4A) Programme is offering funding, training, mentorship and access to strong business networks to women-led enterprises in eight African countries. The programme is led by the Tony Elumelu Foundation in partnership with the European Union, the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States and GIZ.
The focus of this initiative is clear. It aims to support women who are building businesses that respond to climate challenges while creating jobs and income. By providing early-stage capital and practical business support, the programme seeks to help women entrepreneurs grow stronger enterprises that can last, scale and contribute to sustainable economic growth.
Women entrepreneurs from Senegal, Tanzania, Uganda, Cameroon, Kenya, Mozambique, Malawi, and Togo are encouraged to apply.
Supporting women-led green enterprises across Africa
The IYBA WE4A Programme is part of the wider Investing in Young Businesses in Africa strategy. Its specific focus is on women entrepreneurs operating in the green economy. This includes businesses linked to climate action, renewable energy, recycling, waste management, sustainable agriculture and other environmentally responsible sectors.
Through this programme, selected participants will receive a $5,000 non refundable seed capital grant. This funding is meant to help entrepreneurs expand their operations, improve their products or introduce new solutions that support sustainability. For many early-stage businesses, this kind of capital can make a critical difference at a time when access to finance is often limited.
Beyond funding, the programme places strong emphasis on skills and guidance. Participants will take part in structured business training delivered through the TEFConnect digital platform. The training is practical and designed to help entrepreneurs strengthen areas such as business planning, financial management, leadership and long-term growth.
Mentorship is another key part of the programme. Women entrepreneurs will be connected to experienced business leaders who can offer advice, share insights and support decision-making. This one-on-one guidance helps founders navigate common challenges and build confidence as they grow their enterprises.
The programme also opens doors to networks that are often difficult to access. Participants will have opportunities to connect with other entrepreneurs, investors, corporate partners and development organisations from across Africa and beyond. This exposure can lead to partnerships, new markets and future funding opportunities.
Who can apply and what to expect
The IYBA WE4A Programme is open to women entrepreneurs who meet clear eligibility criteria. Applicants must be female founders or co-founders of a business based in one of the eligible countries. They must be at least 18 years old and running a business that has been registered for no more than five years.
The business itself should be green or environmentally sustainable or the idea should clearly align with climate action or sustainable development goals. This ensures that the programme supports enterprises that have both economic and environmental value.
Applications are submitted online through the TEFConnect platform. Applicants are advised to complete and submit their forms early to avoid technical or time-related challenges as the deadline approaches.
The selection process looks at several factors. These include how innovative and sustainable the business idea is, the potential social and environmental impact, the feasibility of the business model, and the entrepreneur’s motivation and leadership potential. Shortlisted candidates will go through further assessments and training stages before receiving seed capital.
For women who are selected, the benefits go beyond the initial support period. Participants gain visibility through Tony Elumelu Foundation platforms, media exposure and participation in high-level events that promote women-led entrepreneurship. This visibility can help build credibility and attract future opportunities.
Building on a Proven Record of Entrepreneurial Impact
Since 2010, the Tony Elumelu Foundation has supported more than 21,000 African entrepreneurs and reached over 2.5 million young Africans through TEFConnect. Its work focuses on job creation, poverty reduction and sustainable economic development. The IYBA WE4A Programme builds on this experience by placing women and sustainability at the center of Africa’s growth story.
For women entrepreneurs in Cameroon, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo and Uganda, this programme offers a practical pathway to grow their businesses and increase their impact. Applications close on January 25, 2026, and eligible candidates can apply through www.TEFConnect.com
