The MEST’ AI Startup Program offers a comprehensive 12-month journey specifically crafted for Africa’s emerging AI entrepreneurs. This intensive program combines technical training, business development, and leadership cultivation to help participants create and grow AI startups with global market potential.
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Program Structure
Two-Phase Approach
Phase 1: Training Period (7 months)
- Duration: January through July 2026.
- Focus: Intensive skill development for all accepted participants.
- Conclusion: Graduation ceremony and evaluation period.
Phase 2: Incubation Period (4 months)
- Duration: September through December 2026.
- Focus: Advanced development for selected high-potential startups.
- Entry: Based on performance during the training phase.
Phase 1 Details: Training Program (January – July 2026)
The training component emphasises practical, hands-on learning where participants will:
- Explore and develop AI-focused business concepts.
- Create and launch an AI minimum viable product (MVP).
- Master AI software development techniques and business essentials.
- Collaborate with leading AI professionals, successful entrepreneurs, and industry specialists worldwide.
- Implement lean startup methodologies, business model development, and market entry strategies.
- Present final pitches to determine advancement to the incubation phase.
Phase 2 Details: Incubation Program (September – December 2026)
Reserved for the most promising startups from the training phase, this stage concentrates on:
- Scaling AI product offerings.
- Building customer base and market presence.
- Investment readiness preparation.
- Business model refinement through actual market testing.
- Close collaboration with mentors, investors, and industry veterans.
- Development of comprehensive funding strategies.
- Program graduates will possess a market-ready AI product, an established user community, and a strategic plan for investment acquisition and business expansion.
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Eligibility Requirements
Essential Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s degree, diploma, or comparable professional experience.
- Age Range: 21 to 30 years old.
- Technical Background: Proven software development experience, foundational knowledge of artificial intelligence, and genuine entrepreneurial interest.
- Personal Attributes: Entrepreneurial spirit, innovative thinking, problem-solving capabilities, commitment to continuous learning, and preparedness for a high-pressure startup environment with strong entrepreneurial aspirations.
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of a West African nation.
- Commitment: Full availability for the complete 12-month program (7-month training plus 4-month incubation) and willingness to pursue full-time entrepreneurship thereafter.
Additional Preferred Qualifications
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively in diverse, cross-functional teams.
- Background in AI innovation and development.
- Enthusiasm for international market expansion.
- Previous entrepreneurial ventures or experience.
Geographic Focus and Interview Process
Target Region
The 2026 program specifically targets West African entrepreneurs, with in-person interviews scheduled in Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal.
Application Process
While West African nationals from all countries may apply, those from countries other than Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal must be prepared to travel to one of these three locations for:
- In-person interviews
- Group challenge sessions (September/October for shortlisted candidates)
Register to attend the CN Business Mixer
Application Deadline: August 22, 2025
This comprehensive program provides world-class mentorship, facilitates the development of practical AI solutions, and establishes clear pathways to investment opportunities and market success. Click HERE to apply.
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