ELISA Business Scholars Program 2025

The ELISA Business Scholars Program (EBS) is an Africa-focused entrepreneurship fellowship hosted by the ELISA Business Network under the International Center for Professional Development (ICPD). It invites African-based entrepreneurs and startup founders to participate in a leadership and business development experience, selecting up to 20 innovators for the 2025–26 cohort. The program includes a 3-day summit and training session in Hwange, Zimbabwe, plus one year of virtual coaching and ongoing peer networking through the ELISA portal.

Fully funded participation in the 3-day ELISA Business Summit and training; a full year of one-on-one mentorship; travel & accommodation support and meals during the summit; lifetime membership to the ELISA Business Network and access to virtual events and entrepreneurial content.

Founders or co-founders of ventures operating primarily in Africa; reside in an African country and can connect monthly with a coach via virtual platforms; open to individuals of any age, sector, or gender; previous alumni may not reapply.

Applications opened December 2024; final selection notifications by September 15, 2025; selection based on eligibility and contribution to local economies.