The Tony Elumelu Foundation is poised to reveal the 12th cohort of its Entrepreneurship Programme on March 22, 2026, marking a significant moment for economic empowerment in Africa. With an unprecedented surge in interest, the foundation received over 265,000 applications from entrepreneurs spanning all 54 African nations. This reflects not only a growing enthusiasm for business opportunities but also highlights the increasing importance of sectors such as artificial intelligence, agriculture, and the green economy within the continent.

The event will be conducted virtually at 2:00 p.m. West African Time, allowing a wide audience to participate and witness the selection of the new beneficiaries. The program, designed to support young African entrepreneurs, aims to encourage a new generation of business leaders, providing them with the necessary resources and mentorship to thrive in their respective fields. This announcement is anticipated to have a positive ripple effect across Africa’s entrepreneurial landscape.

This latest cohort will join a legacy of innovation and growth nurtured by the foundation since its inception. The significant increase in applications this year suggests a robust interest among young Africans in launching sustainable business ventures. Such initiatives are critical for boosting local economies and fostering self-sufficiency across the continent, especially in light of the ongoing global economic challenges.