The ELISA Business Scholars Program is a fully funded, one-year leadership and business mentorship program designed for African entrepreneurs. It includes a 3-day immersive training event in Hwange, Zimbabwe (18–21 November 2025), followed by monthly virtual mentorship with experienced business leaders.
The program empowers founders of startups and ventures across Africa with the tools, coaching, and network to scale their impact and create jobs.
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When is the Application Deadline:
🗓️ 31st July, 2025
🧪 Which Fields are Eligible?
Entrepreneurs from any industry or sector are eligible to apply, as long as:
- Their business or idea operates primarily in Africa
- It contributes to economic growth or job creation on the continent
📘 Type:
Fully Funded Entrepreneurial Fellowship & Mentorship Program
👥 Who can Apply?
- Open to founders of startups or business ventures
- Applicants of any age, gender, or industry sector
- Must live in an African country
- Must be able to meet with their coach monthly via WhatsApp, Zoom, or Google Meet
- Must create a profile and Project Page on the ELISA portal
- Previous ELISA Scholars are not eligible to reapply
🧠 How are Applicants Selected?
- Applications are scored using a rubric developed by the ELISA Advisory Council
- Finalists are interviewed before scholarships are awarded
- Selection is based on potential, innovation, and commitment to business growth in Africa
🌐 Which Countries Are Eligible?
🌍 All African countries — applicants must be residing in Africa and have a business focused on the continent.
📍 Where will the Award be Taken?
📌 Hwange, Zimbabwe (for the in-person summit from 18–21 November 2025)
🖥️ Virtual monthly coaching continues throughout the one-year program
🔢 How Many Awards?
Not specified — a cohort of high-potential African entrepreneurs will be selected for the 2025–26 edition.
🎁 What is the Benefit of the Award?
- ✈️ Flights and travel costs covered
- 🛏️ Accommodation and meals during the summit
- 📚 2-day training session and all conference materials
- 👨💼 One year of business coaching
- 🤝 Access to industry leaders & ELISA Business Summit
- 🧑💼 Lifetime membership in the ELISA Business Network
- 💻 Unlimited access to entrepreneurial learning content
- 🌍 Opportunity to grow and scale your venture with expert support
⏳ How Long Will the Award Last?
🗓️ 1 year, starting with the in-person training in November 2025, followed by monthly virtual mentorship sessions for 12 months.
📝 How to Apply:
Applicants must create a profile and Project Page on the ELISA Portal to apply.