Qualcomm has chosen 10 early-stage African startups for its 2026 “Make in Africa” mentorship programme. The initiative reflects growing global interest in the continent’s fast-evolving tech ecosystem, particularly in AI and IoT.
The selected startups emerged from a pool of over 1,200 applications spanning more than 45 African countries, highlighting the rapid growth of innovation across the continent. Now in its fourth year, the programme is part of Qualcomm’s broader Africa Innovation Platform, which focuses on supporting deep-tech development.
The initiative is designed to help founders move beyond early prototypes and build scalable products. Participants will receive a mix of technical mentorship, business guidance, and access to development tools, including Arduino-based AI platforms.
This year’s cohort features startups tackling real-world challenges across sectors such as agriculture, energy, water, mobility, and education. From Nigeria, Anatsor Ltd is developing a digital poultry management system aimed at improving farm efficiency, while D-Olivette Labs is working on bio-intelligence solutions for agricultural optimisation.
Other selected startups include Namibia’s Amperra Charging Company, which is building an AI-powered electric vehicle charging platform, and Zimbabwe’s Mindora Corporation, focused on Braille-based assistive technology. In the Republic of the Congo, MVUTU is developing solar-powered cold storage systems to reduce post-harvest losses.
Additional participants span across Zambia, Tanzania, Ghana, Uganda, and Kenya, each applying AI and connected technologies to local challenges. These include livestock monitoring tools, smart water systems, cocoa quality tracking, aquaculture automation, and assistive robotics.
According to Qualcomm, the programme underscores the increasing sophistication of African startups and their ability to apply emerging technologies at scale. The company says it remains committed to supporting founders from early design stages through to commercialisation.
Participants will also receive intellectual property training and patent support through partners, along with a stipend upon successful completion. One standout startup will be awarded a Social Impact Fund grant, while others may receive financial support for patent filings.
The African Telecommunications Union, a returning partner, noted that the initiative aligns with efforts to strengthen Africa’s digital ecosystem by empowering local innovators to build solutions tailored to regional needs.
As global tech companies continue to invest in Africa, programmes like this are becoming key drivers of innovation, helping startups scale and compete on a global stage.
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