Deadline: December 15, 2025
Are you a passionate African founder looking to elevate your business to new heights? The ELISA Business Scholars Program 2026 is now open for applications! This prestigious programme offers African entrepreneurs the opportunity to gain high-level mentorship, business training, and lifetime access to a global entrepreneurial network.
About the ELISA Business Scholars Program 2026
The ELISA Business Scholars Program 2026 is designed to empower African founders with the knowledge, mentorship, and resources needed to accelerate their business growth. Selected scholars will participate in an immersive training experience, receive one-on-one mentorship, and gain lifetime access to ELISA’s international business network.
This initiative supports founders across all sectors, helping them refine their business goals, expand their impact, and connect with global leaders who are passionate about Africa’s economic growth.
What the Programme Offers
Successful applicants will receive an all-encompassing package of support and opportunities, including:
- 2-day business training session and conference materials.
- One year of mentoring from a dedicated business coach.
- Accommodation and meals during the in-person training session.
- Fully covered travel expenses (either booked flights or travel cost reimbursement).
- Access to influential business leaders and the ELISA Business Summit.
- Lifetime membership to the ELISA Business Network and access to its virtual events.
- Unlimited access to entrepreneurial content and resources.
This holistic programme ensures that participants receive not just training but ongoing guidance and opportunities to thrive in the African and global business landscape.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the ELISA Business Scholars Program 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be founders of ventures or projects—open to all ages, genders, and sectors.
- Operate a business, project, or idea primarily based in Africa and contributing to an African economy.
- Be resident in an African country at the time of application.
- Be able to commit to monthly meetings with their assigned business coach (via WhatsApp, Google Meet, or Zoom).
- Note: Alumni of the ELISA Business Scholars Program are not eligible to reapply.
This programme targets dynamic, visionary entrepreneurs who are driving economic transformation within their communities.
Application Requirements
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
1. Executive Summary (maximum 2 pages)
Your summary should include:
- The vision and mission of your company or project.
- Short-term and long-term business goals.
- The number of jobs your business has created or will create.
- The number of people impacted by your work and how they benefit.
- Current and projected annual sales, clearly stating the currency.
- A brief explanation of how participation in the ELISA Business Scholars Program 2026 will support your business growth.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Your CV should include:
- A summary statement.
- A list of work experience.
- A list of technical skills.
- Educational background and qualifications.
Programme Timeline and Key Details
- Application Deadline: 15 December 2025
- Programme Duration: The immersive experience spans 3 days of in-person training, followed by a year of virtual mentorship with your assigned coach.
- Mode of Mentoring: Monthly online meetings (via Zoom, Google Meet, or WhatsApp).
This structure ensures participants gain both intensive short-term learning and sustained long-term development.
Why You Should Apply
Participating in the ELISA Business Scholars Program 2026 gives you the rare chance to connect with experienced entrepreneurs, mentors, and global leaders while gaining critical insights to scale your business. Beyond the immersive learning experience, you’ll become part of a vibrant community that continues to support your growth long after the programme ends.
Important Links
👉 Click here to apply for the ELISA Business Scholars Program 2026
👉 Read more about the programme here
Need help preparing a compelling proposal or refining your application materials?
📩 Contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review.
