The MEST AI Startup Program (Class of 2027) is now open to young African entrepreneurs interested in building AI startups. The application deadline is Jul 20 2026 11:59 PM (GMT). This fully-sponsored program brings selected participants to Accra, Ghana for an intensive residential experience focused on training, team formation, product development, and venture incubation.
The program runs for up to 12 months. First, fellows complete a 7-month in-person training phase. Then, selected ventures continue into a 4-month incubation phase. High-performing ventures may also pitch for up to $100,000 in pre-seed investment.
Application Deadline: Jul 20 2026 11:59 PM (GMT)
Eligible Countries: Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya
Program Duration: Up to 12 months total: 7-month training phase plus 4-month incubation for selected ventures.
Program Location: Full-time residential, in-person program in Accra, Ghana; in-person interviews held in Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, and Kenya.
Funding/Benefits: up to $100,000 in pre-seed investment
Award Provider: MEST Africa
About this MEST AI Startup Program:
The MEST AI Startup Program is an immersive startup training and incubation fellowship for entrepreneurs from West and East Africa. During the program, participants work full-time in a high-intensity environment designed to help them develop AI-driven businesses.
In addition, fellows build and deploy an AI minimum viable product (MVP), validate business ideas, and form teams. Selected ventures move into incubation after the training phase. As a result, participants gain practical startup experience while preparing for possible investment.
Eligibility Criteria
- Bachelor’s degree, diploma, or equivalent experience
- Age 21-35
- Demonstrated software development experience
- Basic understanding of AI
- Strong interest in entrepreneurship
- Entrepreneurial, innovative, problem-solving, lifelong learner, ready for a high-intensity startup environment
- West or East African citizen
- Fully committed for up to 12 months and interested in pursuing entrepreneurship full-time afterward
- Nationals outside Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, and Kenya must be able to travel at their own cost to one of those countries for in-person interviews if shortlisted
What Fellows Receive: Fully-sponsored program with no financial payments to MEST; full-time residential program in Accra, Ghana; flight to Ghana covered for admitted participants; healthcare access during the program; potential 4-month incubation for selected ventures; opportunity to receive up to $100,000 in pre-seed investment for high-performing ventures.
Program Components
- Commit full-time to the residential program in Accra, Ghana
- Participate in up to 7 months of in-person training
- For selected ventures, participate in an additional 4 months of incubation
- Form teams and validate AI business ideas
- Build and deploy an AI MVP
- Complete the required assessment as part of the application process
How to Apply for MEST AI Startup Program:
Interested applicants should complete the online application through the program portal. Applicants should also prepare the required video submission / short personal statement video and complete the required assessment.
Before applying, review the eligibility requirements carefully. Then, submit your application before the deadline.
👉 Visit the official fellowship page for details
