2027 Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST) Africa AI Startup Program

About

A 12-month accelerator program offering extensive training, mentorship, and incubation for aspiring AI entrepreneurs in West Africa, focusing on the development of innovative AI solutions and business strategies.

Benefits

• 🎓Fully-funded immersive experience
  Participants receive a comprehensive, fully-funded training program.
• 🌍Hands-on instruction from global experts
  Access to knowledge and skills from industry leaders.
• 🧑‍🏫 Technical mentorship and business coaching
  Guidance from experienced mentors to refine business ideas.
• 🚀Four-month incubation period for top startups
  Selected startups will receive additional support to grow their business.
• 💡Development of AI-powered solutions
  Focus on creating innovative solutions using artificial intelligence.
• 💰Access to funding strategies and market validation
  Support in identifying funding opportunities and validating market fit.

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be a citizen of a country in West Africa
• Age between 21 and 30
• Must have a Bachelor’s degree, diploma, or equivalent experience
• Demonstrated software development experience
• Basic understanding of artificial intelligence
• Strong interest in entrepreneurship
• Fully committed for up to 12 months (7-month training + 4-month incubation)
• Entrepreneurial mindset and readiness to work in a high-intensity startup environment

Participation Commitments

• Commitment to a 12-month program (7 months training + 4 months incubation)
• Active participation in training sessions and mentorship
• Development of a deployable AI product by the end of the program
• Engagement with mentors, investors, and industry leaders

Target Region

West Africa

Target Sector

Technology / AI