APPLY NOW: MEST AI Startup Program 2026 (Fully Funded 12-Month Sprint for West African Entrepreneurs)

Applications are now open for the MEST AI Startup Program 2026, a fully funded, 12-month accelerator designed to equip aspiring AI entrepreneurs in West Africa with the skills, tools, and support to build globally scalable startups.

Organized by the Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST), this intensive program will train and incubate top talent through two distinct phases: a 7-month immersive training (January–July 2026) and a 4-month incubation phase (September–December 2026) for selected ventures.

During the training phase, participants will learn from global experts in AI, business, and technology while developing their Minimum Viable Products (MVPs), refining go-to-market strategies, and mastering lean startup methods. Top-performing teams will proceed to incubation where they’ll scale their AI solutions, gain market traction, secure customers, and prepare for investment.

Benefits:

• Fully-funded participation

• Hands-on AI & business training

• World-class mentorship

• Access to funding and investor networks

• Potential onboarding into MEST’s startup portfolio

Eligibility Criteria:

• Age 21–30

• Demonstrated software development experience

• Interest or background in AI and entrepreneurship

• Must be a citizen of a West African country

• Fully available for the 12-month program

• Willing to travel to Ghana, Nigeria, or Senegal for interviews (if shortlisted)

Application Deadline: August 22, 2025
Program Start: January 2026
Apply Early: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY