The Qualcomm Make in Africa Startup Mentorship Program: as the first initiative of its kind in Africa, this equity-free mentorship programme will identify promising early-stage startups keen on applying advanced connectivity and processing technologies to innovative end-to-end systems solutions, including hardware, and provide these companies with business coaching, access to engineering consultation for product development, and guidance on protecting intellectual property.
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When is the Application Deadline:
February 15th, 2026
Tell Me About The Mentorship Program:
The Qualcomm Make in Africa Startup Mentorship Program provides equity-free mentorship to early-stage African tech startups. Selected startups receive expert coaching, engineering guidance, intellectual property (IP) support, technical training, visibility in the innovation ecosystem, and a potential USD $5,000 stipend. One standout startup also receives the Qualcomm Social Impact Fund award.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning
- Internet of Things (IoT) & embedded systems
- Extended Reality (XR)
- Advanced compute & connectivity-enabled hardware solutions
- Any startup leveraging advanced technologies or hardware-enabled systems
Type:
Equity-free mentorship, technical support, stipend, and IP filing assistance
Who can Apply?
- Registered African companies
- Early-stage startups (pre-seed to seed) with a minimum viable product (MVP)
- Startups applying advanced connectivity, processing technologies, or hardware-enabled systems
How are Applicants Selected?
- Applications are reviewed by Qualcomm for innovation, technical differentiation, and potential impact
- Shortlisted startups receive mentorship and program participation
- Standout startups are awarded a Social Impact Fund grant
Which Countries Are Eligible?
All African countries
Where will the Mentorship Program Be Taken?
Virtual mentorship program with online access; program finale held virtually in December 2026
How Many Spots?
- Up to 10 startups selected for mentorship
- One startup receives the Social Impact Fund award
- All other startups completing program requirements eligible for USD $5,000 stipend
What is the Benefit of the Mentorship Program?
- 1:1 mentorship from Qualcomm experts
- Technical masterclasses and business coaching
- Networking opportunities with investors and ecosystem partners
- USD $5,000 stipend for completing program
- Up to USD $5,000 reimbursement for utility patent filing
- Access to IP filing consultation and online IP education
How Long Will the Mentorship Program Last?
April 2026 to December 2026 (mentorship and program activities)
How to Apply:
- Visit Qualcomm’s Make in Africa page.
- Review eligibility and program guidelines.
- Prepare submission: startup mission, product, team, technology, traction, roadmap.
- Submit online before February 15th, 2026.
- Await notification for shortlisted startups and next phases.
Visit the Award Webpage for Details:
Qualcomm Make in Africa 2026