MEST AI Startup Programme 2026

The MEST AI Startup Programme is a 12-month immersive experience by Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology, equipping Africa's most promising AI entrepreneurs with technical, business, and leadership skills. Phase 1: 7-month training programme (January-July 2026) where participants form teams, validate AI business ideas, build MVPs, and gain mentorship from global experts (OpenAI, Perplexity, Google, Meltwater). Phase 2: 4-month incubation programme (September-December 2026) for selected startups to scale, secure customers, and pitch for up to USD 100,000 pre-seed investment. By January 2027, high-performing teams transition into MEST Portfolio. 2026 intake focused on West Africa with in-person interviews in Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal.

7-month hands-on training with global AI experts, 4-month incubation phase, mentorship from OpenAI/Perplexity/Google/Meltwater, up to USD 100,000 pre-seed investment for top startups, transition into MEST Portfolio with continued support.

Demonstrated software development experience, basic understanding of AI, strong interest in entrepreneurship. West African nationals (in-person events in Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal). Fully committed for 12 months. Strong desire to pursue entrepreneurship full-time afterward.