Women Entrepreneurs in Africa — Apply for the IYBA–WE4A Programme 2025 and Get $5,000 Seed Funding

Empower your business through the IYBA–WE4A Programme 2025 for women entrepreneurs in Africa. Apply now for $5,000 funding, mentorship, and training to scale your sustainable venture.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Africa with the IYBA–WE4A Programme

Are you a passionate woman entrepreneur in Africa ready to take your business to the next level? The IYBA–WE4A Programme 2025, powered by the Tony Elumelu Foundation, in partnership with the European Union (EU), OACPS, and GIZ, offers you a golden opportunity to scale your sustainable or green business.

Through this initiative, women-led enterprises across Africa can access $5,000 in seed capital, mentorship, training, and global networking opportunities — all aimed at helping you build resilient, innovative, and impactful ventures.

Applications are open from October 6, 2025, to January 25, 2026. Don’t miss your chance to join Africa’s most transformative empowerment programme for female entrepreneurs.

What Is the IYBA–WE4A Programme?

The Investing in Young Businesses in Africa – Women Entrepreneurship for Africa (IYBA–WE4A) Programme is designed to promote inclusive economic growth, job creation, and women’s leadership across the continent.

It targets female entrepreneurs who are driving sustainable and green innovation within their communities. The programme supports them through financial assistance, business development training, and mentorship from industry experts.

This initiative is implemented in collaboration with:

Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) — Africa’s leading entrepreneurship platform.
European Union (EU) — providing financial and policy support for gender equality.
OACPS (Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States) — promoting sustainable economic partnerships.
GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit) — offering technical expertise and enterprise development training.

You can find more information and apply directly through the Tony Elumelu Foundation official portal.

Benefits of Joining the IYBA–WE4A Programme

This initiative is not just about funding — it’s about transformation. Successful applicants will enjoy access to:

$5,000 Seed Capital:
Financial support to grow your green or sustainable business.
Tailored Business Training:
Gain essential entrepreneurial and management skills through structured courses delivered by global experts.
Mentorship and Coaching:
One-on-one guidance from successful entrepreneurs, investors, and business mentors to refine your strategy.
Networking Opportunities:
Connect with other women entrepreneurs, investors, and potential partners across Africa.
Exposure and Growth:
Showcase your business to global stakeholders, enhancing visibility and partnership potential.

For more insights into entrepreneurship support in Africa, visit the Tony Elumelu Foundation website and explore their success stories.

Who Can Apply for the IYBA–WE4A Programme?

The programme specifically targets female entrepreneurs leading micro, small, or medium-sized businesses (MSMEs) that align with sustainable development or environmental innovation.

Eligibility Criteria:

Must be a woman entrepreneur leading a registered business.
Age: 18 years and above.
Your business must operate in one of the eligible countries listed below.
Your enterprise should have a sustainability or green focus, promoting eco-friendly or socially impactful practices.

Eligible Countries Include:
Cameroon, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo, and Uganda.

How to Apply for the IYBA–WE4A Programme 2025

Applying is simple and fully online. Here’s how to get started:

Visit the official application page.
Review the eligibility requirements and selection criteria.
Complete the online form with accurate business and personal details.
Upload necessary supporting documents (business registration, proposal, etc.).
Submit your application before January 25, 2026.

Tip: Early applications have a higher chance of consideration, so don’t delay!

You can also watch an application guide video on the Tony Elumelu Foundation YouTube Channel to better understand the process.

Why Women Entrepreneurs Matter in Africa’s Development

Women are the backbone of Africa’s entrepreneurship ecosystem. According to the World Bank, women own nearly 58% of micro-enterprises on the continent, yet face limited access to finance and mentorship. Programmes like IYBA–WE4A help bridge this gap by empowering women to build scalable and impactful ventures that promote sustainability, innovation, and inclusion.

By supporting women-led businesses, this programme contributes to:

Reducing gender inequality.
Promoting green innovation.
Creating jobs and improving community livelihoods.

For more opportunities for women in business, check out similar programmes on UN Women Africa and African Development Bank’s Gender Initiative.

Key Dates to Remember

Application Opens: October 6, 2025
Application Closes: January 25, 2026
Announcement of Selected Entrepreneurs: Early 2026

The IYBA–WE4A Programme 2025 represents more than funding — it’s a movement to empower women to lead Africa’s green revolution. If you’re an ambitious woman entrepreneur looking to grow your sustainable business, now is your time to act.

Apply now through the official Tony Elumelu Foundation link to secure your $5,000 seed capital, expert mentorship, and a life-changing opportunity to expand your business impact.

Take charge of your entrepreneurial journey — Africa needs your innovation, leadership, and vision.