Deadline: February 18, 2026
The Call for Applications: Join the Pan-African Incubation Programme – Get Ready 4 Timbuktoo EdTech is officially open, offering a unique opportunity for promising education technology (EdTech) startups across Africa to scale their impact, strengthen their business models, and prepare for continental and global growth.
This fully online, pan-African incubation programme is delivered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under its flagship timbuktoo initiative, with a strong focus on transforming education systems and improving learning outcomes across the continent.
About the Get Ready 4 Timbuktoo EdTech Programme
Get Ready 4 Timbuktoo EdTech is a three-month, fully virtual incubation programme designed to identify, support, and prepare high-potential African EdTech startups. The programme focuses on helping innovators refine their products, strengthen their market readiness, and build scalable solutions that address Africa’s most pressing education challenges.
The programme forms part of UNDP’s broader timbuktoo strategy, which aims to position Africa as a global innovation leader through targeted sectoral hubs, including the EdTech Hub based in Dakar, Senegal.
Who Should Apply
The programme is open to EdTech startups based anywhere in Africa that meet the following criteria:
- Have a working or testable prototype of an education technology solution;
- Address a clear and defined education challenge, such as access to quality education, inclusion, learning outcomes, employability, or skills development;
- Demonstrate potential for scalability and impact across local or regional markets;
- Are able to commit approximately 6–8 hours per week for the full duration of the three-month programme.
Applications are especially encouraged from:
- Women-led startups and teams;
- Innovators operating in rural or underserved communities;
- Solutions that incorporate local languages, accessibility features, or inclusive learning design.
Programme Structure and Duration
The incubation programme runs for three months and is delivered entirely online, enabling participation from startups across all African regions without the need for physical relocation.
Up to 50 EdTech startups will be selected to participate in this cohort.
What Selected Startups Will Receive
Startups accepted into the programme will benefit from a comprehensive support package, including:
1. Readiness Diagnostic
A 360-degree diagnostic assessment covering product development, market positioning, business model, impact, and operational readiness. This assessment helps shape a tailored support pathway for each startup.
2. Expert-Led Learning Modules
Participants will engage in structured online learning sessions covering key areas such as:
- Product development and learning sciences
- Business model refinement and growth strategy
- Fundraising readiness and investor engagement
- Impact measurement and data-driven decision-making
3. High-Level Mentorship and Coaching
Weekly mentorship and coaching sessions will be provided by experienced EdTech founders, product leaders, AI specialists, and funding experts, offering practical guidance and sector-specific insights.
4. Potential Financial Support
Selected startups may access grant-based financial support aimed at prototyping, piloting, or user testing to strengthen and validate their solutions.
5. Access to the Timbuktoo Innovation Ecosystem
Participants will gain visibility within the wider timbuktoo ecosystem, including opportunities for networking, partnerships, and exposure to investors and stakeholders across Africa and beyond.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 18 February 2026
Early application is encouraged to allow sufficient time for preparation and submission.
About the Timbuktoo Initiative
The timbuktoo initiative is UNDP’s flagship pan-African innovation strategy. Its long-term objectives include:
- Mobilising USD 1 billion over 10 years for African innovation;
- Supporting 10,000 startups across the continent;
- Scaling 1,000 high-growth ventures;
- Impacting 100 million lives;
- Generating USD 10 billion in value.
The EdTech Hub is one of several sector-focused hubs under timbuktoo, designed to unlock innovation in critical areas shaping Africa’s future.
Why Apply to the Get Ready 4 Timbuktoo EdTech Programme
The Call for Applications: Join the Pan-African Incubation Programme – Get Ready 4 Timbuktoo EdTech represents a strategic opportunity for African EdTech founders to refine their solutions, strengthen their market positioning, and become part of a powerful continental innovation network backed by UNDP.
Need Support With Your Application?
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