Call For Applications: Tony Elumelu Storytellers Fund

Deadline: 29 July 2022

Celebrating and sharing stories of entrepreneurs comes in many forms; a photo, drawing or painting of an inspirational figure can tell a thousand stories and transcend a thousand languages.

Just like a great entrepreneur takes an idea and turns it into a profitable business, a great artist finds a muse and turns it into something relatable, intriguing, and timeless – Africa No Filter wants to support you to create this work.

The Tony Elumelu Storytellers Fund calls for applications from emerging artists, journalists and content creators including bloggers, vloggers, and podcasters whose work offers a more contemporary and authentic narrative of entrepreneurship and entrepreneurs in Africa.

The Fund will award grants worth between $500and $2000 to each selected participant.

Named after patron, African business leader and philanthropist, Tony O. Elumelu, the project is jointly funded by Heirs Insurance and Heirs Life Assurance.

The Tony Elumelu StoryTellers Fund for Emerging African StoryTellers – Eligibility

Applicants must be aged between 18 and 35 years and living on the continent or in the Diaspora. They must have a platform or portfolio of work that shifts stereotypical narratives about youth and entrepreneurship in Africa.

What type of content is ANF looking to support?

We’re particularly keen on supporting storytellers telling an interesting, unique story about Entrepreneurship in Africa; stories amplify unheard voices, challenge global perspectives and introduce contemporary narratives. The Tony Elumelu Storytellers Fund allows for lots of creativity and innovation – think about what you want your reader or viewer to take away from this work and the type of impact you want to create, locally and globally.

What kind of projects are you looking for?

This Fund is awarded to content creators in two categories, Media and Arts.

Media includes Bloggers, Vloggers and Journalists. Examples of projects: A series of published articles identifying innovative tech entrepreneurs, a vlog that showcases entrepreneurs in underrepresented areas, a blog that shines the light on new African innovation.

Arts grants will be made to photographers, filmmakers, sketch artists, painters, and digital artists. Examples of projects: A lighthearted, comedic short film telling the story of an 11-year old budding entrepreneur, a photography series of Africa’s Top entrepreneurs etc.

Will Mr. Tony Elumelu see my work?

Absolutely. All recipients of this fund will have their work presented to Mr Elumelu and the Heirs Insurance and Heirs Life team. They will also be involved in the selection process.

Application status

All applicants will be contacted by 31 August 2022.

How much time do I have to create my content?

All recipients of the Tony Elumelu Fund must complete their projects by October 2022.