Deadline: August 22, 2025
Are you an ambitious West African software developer with a passion for artificial intelligence and entrepreneurship? The MEST AI Startup Program – Class of 2026 is now open for applications. This fully funded, high-impact program is designed to equip early-stage AI entrepreneurs with the skills, mentorship, and funding they need to build scalable AI startups on the continent.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the MEST AI Startup Program – Class of 2026, including eligibility, benefits, timeline, and how to apply.
About the MEST AI Startup Program – Class of 2026
The MEST AI Startup Program – Class of 2026 is a 12-month, fully-funded residential training and incubation sprint, hosted by the Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST) in Accra, Ghana. It is tailored to AI-focused startup founders from West Africa who want to learn, build, and scale solutions with the guidance of global experts.
Participants will receive hands-on training, access to top-tier mentorship, and a chance to pitch for up to $100,000 in pre-seed funding.
Program Timeline
Training Phase (January – July 2026):
- In-person residential program in Accra
- Hands-on AI development
- Business and leadership training
- Team formation and MVP development
Incubation Phase (September – December 2026):
- Product iteration and market testing
- Development of go-to-market strategies
- Continued mentorship and support
Graduation and Funding (January 2027):
- Selected teams pitch for up to $100,000 in pre-seed investment
- Successful ventures join the MEST portfolio
What You Will Gain
- Technical Mastery: Learn AI product development from experts in OpenAI, Google, Perplexity, and more
- Business Acumen: Startup development, customer validation, business modeling, and fundraising
- Mentorship: Access to world-class advisors and a pan-African entrepreneurial network
- Funding Opportunities: Up to $100,000 in investment for top-performing teams
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the MEST AI Startup Program – Class of 2026, applicants must meet the following:
- Age: 21–30 years
- Citizenship: Must be a national of a West African country
- Background: Prior experience in software development (degree not required)
- Availability: Must be able to fully commit to in-person residential training in Accra
- Language: Proficient in English
What’s Covered
- Full Tuition: No program fees required
- Accommodation and Living Support: Provided during training and incubation
- Healthcare: Covered throughout your stay in Ghana
- Flight: Travel to Accra is fully covered for successful applicants
Please note: Participants must relocate to Accra for the full duration of the program. Remote participation or combining with work/school is not allowed.
Application Process
Deadline: August 22, 2025
Steps to Apply:
- Complete the online application form
- Submit a short video introduction
- Pass the initial screening and take online assessments
- Participate in group challenges and interviews in Ghana, Nigeria, or Senegal (September–October 2025)
For more details about the program, read the full overview here.
Program Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | MEST AI Startup Program – Class of 2026 |
| Location | Accra, Ghana |
| Duration | 7-month training + 4-month incubation |
| Funding | Up to $100,000 in pre-seed |
| Eligibility | West African nationals, age 21–30, with coding experience |
| Application Deadline | August 22, 2025 |
| Cost | Fully funded (tuition, travel, healthcare, accommodation) |
✍ Need Help with Your Application?
For expert support with proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact grantsdatabase.org.
Don’t miss this chance to launch your AI startup with global-level training and support through the MEST AI Startup Program – Class of 2026. Apply now and be part of Africa’s next wave of AI-powered innovation.
