HOW AFRICAN ORGANIZATIONS
ARE FUNDING STARTUPS.
START-UP OPPORTUNITIES
SHE LEADS AFRICA ACCELERATOR PROGRAM
The SLA Accelerator is a 3 months program designed to identify, support and fund the next
generation of Africa's brightest entrepreneurs. Each year’s program focuses on particular industry
niche. For example, the last program in May was focused on businesses in the Technology space.
Applicants must be between 18 and 35 with an existing business based in Nigeria, less than three
years old and with less than $50,000 in external funding. The program offer includes media
coverage to raise your profile, access to Nigeria’s best business minds, and an opportunity for
investment. Website: https://sheleadsafrica.org/accelerator/
TONY ELUMELU FOUNDATION PROGRAM
Every years, tens of thousands of young African entrepreneurs compete to be chosen for one of the
$5,000 grants offered by this organization. With a 10-years vision of committing $100 million to
identify and empower 10,000 African entrepreneurs, create a million jobs, and add $10 billion in
revenues to Africa’s economy, the TEF is Africa’s biggest funding platform for the next generation.
The program offers a 12-weeks mentoring program and startup toolkit, access to seed capital with
each selected entrepreneur receiving a non-returnable seed capital of $5,000 plus access to a
dynamic alumni network and an online resource library. Website:
http://www.tonyelumelufoundation.org/
MISS AFRICA SEED FUNDING PROGRAM
An initiative led by DCA Academy that offers grants to support women and girls in the Science,
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. Applicants must be a current resident of an
African country, either as an individual aged 18 or older, or a representative of an NGO or social
enterprise based in Africa with demonstrated leadership potential. Proposals or projects must have
a tangible impact for women and girls in computer science and/or STEM-related fields. $5,000
grand prize to the winner, and $1,000 to two finalists. Website: http://missdotafrica.digital/apply-
now/call-seed-fund-eoi/
These are not the only funding options available. More organizations and funding opportunities are
springing up every day in Africa. Your idea need not remain dormant. Do your research, get
innovative and who knows, you may be the next recipient of a $5000 grant.