Applications are now open for the 2027 edition of the MEST Africa AI Startup Program, a fully funded initiative designed to equip African entrepreneurs with the technical, business, and leadership skills required to build globally competitive artificial intelligence startups.
The programme targets aspiring AI founders aged 21 to 35 from Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, and Kenya with software development experience and a strong interest in building AI-driven products and ventures.
According to MEST Africa, the initiative is structured as an immersive training and incubation pathway that blends advanced technical instruction with support for startup development.
The organisation says the goal is to prepare participants to build scalable AI companies capable of solving real-world problems across Africa and beyond.
The programme will run in two phases. The first phase consists of a seven-month intensive training period where selected participants will receive hands-on instruction in AI software development, product design, business strategy, and startup growth. Participants will also work closely with mentors and industry experts to develop minimum viable products (MVPs) for their startup ideas.
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The second phase will involve a four-month incubation period focused on product refinement, market validation, and go-to-market strategy development. At the end of the incubation stage, selected startups will have the opportunity to pitch for up to $100,000 in pre-seed funding and join the MEST startup portfolio.
Speaking on the programme, Emily Fiagbedzi, Director of the MEST AI Startup Program, said the initiative is focused on ensuring African innovators are active contributors to the global artificial intelligence ecosystem.
“Africa has no shortage of talent, but there is a need to channel that talent into building solutions that can compete globally. This programme is about equipping founders with the skills, mentorship, and resources to do exactly that,” she said.
She added that participants will gain access to a network of global experts and industry partners supporting the growth of AI innovation across the continent.
MEST Africa noted that the 2027 intake builds on the success of its previous cohort, which included founders from several African countries working on AI solutions across sectors such as fintech, education, agriculture, and healthcare.
Founded in 2008, MEST Africa operates under the Meltwater Foundation and has trained more than 2,000 entrepreneurs while supporting over 90 startups across Africa through its training and investment programs.
The organisation added that the AI Startup Program is fully funded, covering tuition, training, and related programme costs for successful applicants.
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