MEST Africa is excited to announce that applications are now open for the all-new MEST AI Startup Program!
Join a talented cohort of aspiring software entrepreneurs to explore business ideas, form strong teams, and build high-impact AI startups through training and potential incubation with world-class tech and business experts.
When is the Application Deadline:
August 22, 2025
🏆 Tell Me About The Award:
The MEST AI Startup Program 2026 is a newly launched, fully immersive, 12-month program designed to train and launch Africa’s next generation of AI-focused tech entrepreneurs. Offered by MEST Africa, it equips West African software developers and aspiring founders with technical, business, and startup leadership skills — culminating in a chance to pitch for up to $100,000 in pre-seed funding.
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🎓 Which Fields are Eligible?
- Software Development
- Artificial Intelligence
- Business/Startup Development
- Product Design and Innovation
- Tech Entrepreneurship
📚 Type:
AI Startup Training & Incubation Program (with potential pre-seed investment)
🙋♂️ Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be aged 21–30
- Be citizens of a West African country
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree, diploma, or equivalent experience
- Have software development experience
- Have a basic understanding of AI
- Be available full-time for 12 months
- Show strong interest in startups and entrepreneurship
Preferred qualities include:
- Cross-functional team experience
- Familiarity with AI solutions
- Previous entrepreneurial exposure
- Passion for building for global markets
🧾 How are Applicants Selected?
- Online application review
- In-person interviews and challenges held in Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal
- Final cohort selection based on technical skill, entrepreneurial potential, and problem-solving ability
🌍 Which Countries Are Eligible?
All West African countries, including:
- Nigeria
- Ghana
- Senegal
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Gambia
- Sierra Leone
- Liberia
- Togo
- Benin
- Burkina Faso
- Guinea
- Mali
- Niger
- Cape Verde
Note: Shortlisted applicants must travel to Ghana, Nigeria, or Senegal for final interviews.
📌 Where Will the Award be Taken?
The program will be held in Ghana with travel required for selection events in Ghana, Nigeria, or Senegal.
🔢 How Many Awards?
A select cohort (number not specified) will be chosen to participate each year.
💼 What is the Benefit of the Award?
- 7-month intensive training led by AI and business experts (Jan–July 2026)
- 4-month incubation phase to scale products and acquire customers (Sep–Dec 2026)
- Opportunity to pitch for up to $100,000 in pre-seed funding
- Access to world-class mentorship from OpenAI, Perplexity, Google, Meltwater, and others
- Membership in the MEST Portfolio post-program
- Lifetime access to MEST’s support network and resources
⏳ How Long Will the Award Last?
12 months total, split into:
- 7 months of training (Jan–July 2026)
- 4 months of incubation (Sep–Dec 2026)
- Transition to portfolio in January 2027
📝 How to Apply:
Visit the official application portal and complete the form before the deadline:
👉 Click HERE to Apply