#Nigeria #Lagos #Tony Elumelu #IYBA #WE4A

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Africa

In a significant initiative aiming to bolster the economic empowerment of women in Africa, over 1,000 women-led businesses will receive funding as part of the second cohort of the Invest in Young Businesses in Africa - Women Entrepreneurship for Africa (IYBA-WE4A) program. This initiative has been launched in collaboration with leading global development organizations, including the European Union (EU), the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), and the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF).

Background of the IYBA-WE4A Program

This program follows the success of its inaugural cohort, which supported 751 green businesses led by African women, distributing nearly $4 million to foster innovative solutions in vital green sectors. The partners are now amplifying their efforts to create an even more substantial impact on African women entrepreneurs who are pivotal in driving sustainable development and innovation.

Applications for the second cohort will be open from today, October 6, 2025, until January 25, 2026. Selected candidates will receive a non-repayable startup capital of $5,000, alongside tailored business management training, a customized green program, mentorship, and lifetime access to TEFConnect to ensure continued growth and investment readiness.

Focus Areas for Support

The targeted sectors for this funding program include:

• - Sustainable agriculture
• - Blue economy
• - Renewable energy
• - Circular economy
• - Ecotourism
• - Construction and logistics

Program Benefits

Participating entrepreneurs will gain significantly from this comprehensive program, which provides:
1. Non-repayable startup capital: Each selected business leader will receive $5,000 to kickstart their operations or expand their existing business ventures.
2. Extensive training: The program includes diverse training modules on business management tailored to the unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, with a focus on green practices.
3. Mentorship: Participants will have access to mentorship from industry experts, providing guidance and support as they navigate their entrepreneurial journeys.
4. TEFConnect Access: Lifetime access to TEFConnect, a platform fostering networks among entrepreneurs and investors and promoting sustained economic growth, will be provided, enhancing their investment readiness.
5. Specialized Masterclasses: Experts will conduct masterclasses covering vital topics such as financial management, resilience, digital growth, leadership, and market expansion.

Commitment to Gender Equality and Sustainability

Through this initiative, the partners substantiate their collective dedication to promoting gender-focused sustainable economic empowerment and reducing environmental impact across Africa. Somachi Chris-Asoluka, CEO of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, emphasized the transformative impact of supporting women entrepreneurs, stating, "After the successful implementation of the first cohort, we are eager to amplify our impact to empower even more African women-led businesses. This partnership accelerates the green and inclusive economy of Africa and exemplifies the limitless potential of African women when they receive adequate support."

Romina Kochius, program director for WE4D, highlighted the crucial role of the private sector in combating poverty and promoting social change, declaring, "With a project of this magnitude, we are positioned to inspire substantial change."

How to Apply

Women entrepreneurs interested in applying for this unique opportunity are encouraged to visit www.TEFConnect.com before the application deadline of January 25, 2026. This program not only aims to enhance the entrepreneurial skills of women but also endeavors to secure existing jobs in supported women-led enterprises and foster their growth.

Conclusion

The IYBA-WE4A program represents a significant step towards empowering women in Africa by investing in their businesses and providing them with the resources necessary for success. Collectively, these efforts contribute to a sustainable and prosperous future for the continent, highlighting the essential role that women play in driving economic growth and innovation.