Deadline: December 1, 2025
The CMU-Africa Industry Innovation Lab TechSkills Marketplace Program 2026 offers an opportunity for African startups and MSMEs to access high-quality technical talent while contributing to the development of emerging engineers and digital innovators. This programme connects organisations with CMU-Africa graduate students who bring advanced skills in data science, AI, software engineering, product development, digital platforms, and more. It aims to strengthen Africa’s innovation ecosystem by enabling meaningful collaboration between industry and academic talent.
About the Opportunity
The TechSkills Marketplace Program bridges the gap between industry needs and top-tier engineering talent across the continent. Through this initiative, CMU-Africa’s Industry Innovation Lab links startups and MSMEs with graduate students capable of tackling real-world technical challenges. The programme follows a co-funded model, ensuring participating companies gain access to specialised expertise at significantly reduced cost. Startups also gain visibility within CMU-Africa’s broader innovation network.
Eligibility
To qualify for the TechSkills Marketplace Program 2026, organisations must:
- Be a registered and operational startup or MSME within Africa.
- Have a clear business model or product under development.
- Provide a defined technology or digital-focused project suitable for graduate-level technical work.
- Be able to co-fund the internship through the shared-stipend model.
- Offer a supportive environment for interns, including capacity for remote or hybrid collaboration.
- Be willing to provide mentorship and operational support to the assigned intern.
Benefits / Award Details
Participating organisations gain:
- Access to high-performing CMU-Africa graduate students with strong technical expertise.
- Reduced financial burden thanks to the co-funded stipend model.
- Potential long-term collaboration opportunities beyond the internship.
- Ecosystem visibility through CMU-Africa’s Innovation Hub and partner networks.
- Practical support in building, improving, or scaling technology solutions.
Application Requirements / Documents
Applicants must prepare:
- A detailed project description with clear technical objectives.
- Organisational information outlining structure, registration, and digital capabilities.
- A description of the expected intern role and required technical skills.
- Evidence of capacity to co-fund the internship.
- Confirmation of availability to support and mentor the intern throughout the placement.
Timeline / Key Dates
- Applications Open: 1 November 2025
- Application Deadline: 1 December 2025
- Startup / MSME Selection: January – February 2026
- Matching and Onboarding: March – May 2026
- Internship Start: June 2026
How to Apply
Eligible organisations should apply online by submitting their project details and organisational profile before the deadline. Full and accurate information increases the likelihood of successful matching with qualified CMU-Africa students.
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed based on organisational readiness, project clarity, potential impact, and ability to support the learning objectives of CMU-Africa students. Shortlisted organisations will undergo additional assessment during the matching phase to ensure optimal alignment between project needs and student skill sets.
Additional Information / Terms
Internships typically last three months and are conducted during the 2026 summer period. Projects must be well-defined, technically viable, and capable of delivering meaningful learning outcomes. Organisations must demonstrate commitment to providing mentorship and collaboration throughout the internship.
Host Organisation
The programme is hosted by Carnegie Mellon University Africa (CMU-Africa) under its Industry Innovation Lab, a leading institution focused on nurturing world-class engineering talent and enabling industry-driven innovation across the continent.
Application Links
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