The ELISA Business Scholars Program 2025

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Elevate Your Startup: The ELISA Business Scholars Program 2025 (Fully Funded in Zimbabwe)

Aspiring African entrepreneurs, your moment has arrived. The ELISA Business Scholars Program 2025 invites innovative startup founders from across the continent to take part in a fully funded, immersive growth experience. Hosted in Hwange, Zimbabwe, this opportunity connects visionary entrepreneurs with mentorship, training, and a powerful pan-African network—all designed to help transform bold ideas into job-creating ventures. 

Program Overview & Timeline

At the heart of the ELISA Scholars Program is a 3-day intensive training and summit in Hwange, Zimbabwe (18–21 November 2025). Participants will refine business strategies, deepen financial acumen, master investor pitching, and hone their elevator pitches—guided by seasoned business leaders. 

Key Dates:

• Applications Open: Early 2025 (with promotion starting December 2024)

• Deadline: 31 August 2025 

• Final Selection & Notifications: By 15 September 2025 

• Training & Summit: 18–21 November 2025 in Hwange, Zimbabwe 

Who Should Apply?

This program is inclusive—open to founders or co-founders of ventures operating primarily in Africa who aim to benefit the continent's economies. Applicants must reside in an African country and be able to connect with a coach virtually (via Zoom, WhatsApp, or Google Meet) at least once per month. 

The program welcomes applicants regardless of age, gender, or sector, but note that previous ELISA Scholars are not eligible to reapply. 

Benefits: What You Gain as a Scholar

Selected participants will receive a comprehensive, fully funded experience:

• Two-day intensive summit training, including materials and expert-led workshops 

• One year of mentorship: Each scholar partners with an experienced business coach for monthly virtual support 

• Travel, accommodation, and meals covered during the summit 

• Lifetime membership to the ELISA Business Network, with access to virtual events and entrepreneurial content. 

This program is structured not just to educate, but to connect—arming entrepreneurs with tools, visibility, and relationships to scale their impact across Africa. 

Why It Matters

1. Fully Funded – No financial burden: all expenses for training, travel, and lodging are covered.

2. Trusted Mentorship – Gain strategic guidance from seasoned business leaders committed to your long-term success.

3. Elevated Visibility & Networks – Interact with peers, investors, and ecosystem partners within a vibrant African entrepreneurial ecosystem.

4. Pan-African Reach – Purpose-built to strengthen ventures that contribute to local and continental economic growth.

Application Essentials: How to Apply

To apply:

1. Create a profile on the ELISA Portal.

2. Build your Project Page, detailing your venture’s mission, operations, and goals. 

3. Submit required documents:

   • Executive Summary (max 2 pages): Include vision, mission, objectives, projected jobs and impact, current/prospective sales, and how ELISA would support your growth. 

   • CV: Should contain a summary statement, work experience, technical skills, and education. 

4. Proficiency in English or French is required, and communication during the program occurs in these languages. 

5. Ensure you can commit to monthly coaching sessions via virtual platforms. 

Final Thoughts

The ELISA Business Scholars Program 2025 is a transformative, fully funded opportunity for African founders looking to refine strategy, scale operations, and embed themselves in high-impact networks. Save the 31 August 2025 deadline, and get your application going today!