Harvard Business School to feature Tony Elumelu Foundation as case study in curriculum

The Harvard Business School (HBS) will include the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) as a case study in its curriculum. 

Elumelu, TEF founder, said this recognition highlights the foundation’s exceptional achievements in empowering young African entrepreneurs.

The case study, which launches on February 29, will be presented before a class of graduate students in Boston, Massachusetts.

It will explore TEF’s unique approach to philanthropy, showcasing how the foundation’s strategic initiatives contributed to positive change and elevated entire communities.

The case study will delve into TEF’s innovative approaches and their impact over the years.

It will also acknowledge Elumelu’s economic philosophy of Africapitalism, which positions the private sector, and particularly entrepreneurs, as the driving force for social and economic development in Africa.

Since its inception in 2015, TEF has trained over 1.5 million young Africans on their digital platform, TEFConnect.

Additionally, the foundation has disbursed over $100 million in direct funding to 20,000 young African entrepreneurs, who have collectively created over 400,000 jobs.

Speaking on the foundation’s impact, Elumelu, said: “TEF is creating economic hope and opportunity.”

“We believe entrepreneurship is the answer to poverty, youth unemployment, and insecurity,” he added.

“Through our interventions, we encourage young people, empower them with seed capital and training, and set them up for success. Together, we are tackling the challenges faced by our continent.

“TEF was established to cultivate successful African business leaders. We want to replicate our own success and create entrepreneurs who will build further prosperity for the continent.

“It’s about societal transformation and leaving a legacy of positive impact. Prosperity for all is what will ultimately create the security, harmony, and peace we need.”

The HBS session will serve as a platform for thought leaders, scholars, and business enthusiasts to engage in a meaningful discussion on the role of philanthropy in shaping sustainable and inclusive economies.