Deadline: February 5, 2026
The Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship 2026 for Startups in Uganda is now open for applications. This prestigious program supports promising EdTech ventures working to transform learning experiences and expand access to quality education across Uganda. The fellowship is designed to accelerate growth-stage EdTech startups, equipping them with the resources, mentorship, and partnerships needed to deepen their impact and scale sustainably.
The initiative is implemented by Hive Colab in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, focusing on driving inclusive and equitable access to education through innovative technology solutions.
About the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship 2026
The Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship 2026 is a flagship acceleration program that empowers high-potential education technology ventures to strengthen their reach, scale their innovations, and achieve measurable learning outcomes.
The fellowship supports ventures committed to bridging learning gaps, improving access to education, and addressing the most pressing challenges in Uganda’s education sector through technology.
Benefits
Successful ventures in the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship 2026 will receive comprehensive support designed to accelerate both impact and sustainability. Benefits include:
- 💰 Equity-Free Funding: Up to $70,000 USD in non-dilutive capital to support venture growth and scaling.
- 🎓 Tailored Fellowship Curriculum: Access to a structured learning and growth curriculum specifically designed for education technology ventures.
- 👩🏫 Expert Mentorship: One-on-one mentorship from leading experts in venture development, education systems, and technology innovation.
- 🤝 Partnership and Market Access Support: Strategic connections with industry partners, investors, and key ecosystem players to facilitate expansion.
- 📊 Learning Science & Impact Guidance: Technical assistance to strengthen learning outcome measurement and educational impact.
- 📈 Investor Readiness & Strategic Advisory: Hands-on support to prepare for investment and long-term sustainability.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship 2026 for Startups in Uganda, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be locally founded and locally led in Uganda.
- Operate an education technology solution that is already functional and showing measurable traction.
- Be at a growth stage—ready to scale operations, partnerships, and impact.
- Demonstrate a clear commitment to inclusive education, particularly serving underserved learners and communities.
- Be open to mentorship, training, and collaboration throughout the fellowship period.
- Women-led and diverse founding teams are strongly encouraged to apply.
Program Focus
The Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship 2026 focuses on strengthening Uganda’s EdTech ecosystem by empowering innovators who are tackling barriers to learning. The program particularly supports solutions that:
- Enhance access to quality and affordable education.
- Improve learning outcomes using data and technology.
- Create inclusive opportunities for marginalized learners.
- Bridge gaps in teacher support, curriculum delivery, and student engagement.
This initiative aligns with the Mastercard Foundation’s vision of enabling dignified and fulfilling work for young people by improving education access and employability across Africa.
Important Dates
- 🗓 Early Action Deadline: January 22, 2026
- 🗓 Final Application Deadline: February 5, 2026
All interested ventures are encouraged to apply before the final deadline to ensure consideration.
How to Apply
Applications for the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship 2026 for Startups in Uganda are now open. Eligible EdTech startups should complete the online application form with detailed information about their venture’s mission, progress, inclusivity strategy, and evidence of educational impact.
Applicants will undergo a selection process based on innovation, scalability, inclusivity, and potential for transformative educational change in Uganda.
Why the Fellowship Matters
The Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship 2026 for Startups in Uganda represents a pivotal opportunity for Ugandan EdTech entrepreneurs to scale their innovations, receive substantial financial support, and gain access to a vast network of partners and investors.
By joining the fellowship, startups contribute to transforming Africa’s education landscape — building solutions that empower learners, educators, and communities across the nation.
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