Qualcomm has opened applications for its Make in Africa Startup Mentorship Program, an initiative aimed at supporting early stage African startups building hardware and deep technology solutions. The program is designed to help founders turn strong technical ideas into real products by offering funding, mentorship and access to global networks without taking equity. For many African startups working in complex technology fields, this support could make a meaningful difference at a critical stage of growth.
The initiative targets startups using advanced connectivity and processing technologies such as hardware, artificial intelligence, 5G and the Internet of Things. These areas are often costly and difficult to develop without strong technical backing. By focusing on these sectors, Qualcomm is positioning the program as a tool to strengthen Africa’s deep tech ecosystem and encourage local innovation that can compete globally.
Why the Program Matters for African Startups
One of the key strengths of the Make in Africa program is its equity free structure. Qualcomm does not take ownership in the startups it supports. This approach allows founders to retain full control of their businesses while still receiving high value support. In a startup environment where many accelerators demand equity early on, this model stands out.
Financial support is another important benefit. All participating startups are eligible to receive a USD 5,000 stipend after successfully completing the program requirements. This funding can be used to support operations, refine prototype, or move product development forward. In addition, one startup will receive a Social Impact Fund grant from Qualcomm Wireless Reach, which focuses on solutions with clear social value.
Mentorship is at the center of the program. Selected startups will receive one on one guidance from Qualcomm engineers and subject matter experts. This includes technical support for product development and business coaching to help founders think through strategy, scale and long term sustainability. The program also includes masterclasses led by experts in areas such as artificial intelligence, IoT, extended reality, AI powered computing, 5G and intellectual property law. Founders can also access further training through the Qualcomm Academy.
Intellectual property protection is treated as a priority. Many African startups struggle to protect their innovations due to cost and limited access to legal support. Through this program, startups can receive reimbursement of up to USD 5,000 for one full utility patent application filed locally, at the United States Patent and Trademark Office or through the Patent Cooperation Treaty. Participants are also eligible for patent consultation hours with Adams and Adams, a leading intellectual property law firm in Africa. In addition, startups receive free access to online IP education through L2Pro Africa, helping founders better understand filing processes and IP strategy.
The program also offers visibility and industry connections. Startups will be showcased to a global audience of investors and partners. The journey ends with a virtual finale and demo day in December 2026, where participating startups will present their work and the Social Impact Fund award winner will be announced. This exposure can help startups attract partnerships and funding beyond the program.
Who Can Apply and What to Expect
The Make in Africa program is open to early stage startups that are typically at pre seed or seed stage. Applicants must be based in and legally registered in an African country. The program is best suited for startups developing hardware or deep tech solutions that use AI, 5G or IoT technologies. Simple software based businesses such as basic e commerce platforms are less competitive, as the focus is on advanced and technical innovation.
A dedicated full time team is preferred, reflecting the level of commitment required during the program. Qualcomm also welcomes use case proposals built on platforms such as Arduino Uno Q.
Applications opened on December 17, 2025 and wil close on February 15, 2026. Startups must apply through the Qualcomm Make in Africa portal. The application requires a pitch deck, a technical description of the product and details about the founding team.
Shortlisted startups will be announced in March 2026. The mentorship program will run from April to November 2026, followed by the finale and demo day in December 2026.
Qualcomm describes the Make in Africa program as the first initiative of its kind on the continent. It reflects the company’s broader mission to deliver intelligent computing everywhere and support solutions that address real world challenges. By combining funding, technical expertise, business coaching and intellectual property support, the program aims to help African innovators build strong end to end solutions.
As Africa’s technology ecosystem continues to grow, initiatives like Make in Africa provide more than short term assistance. They offer skills, protection and exposure that can shape the future of local innovation. For founders building complex technology products, this program could be a rare opportunity to grow with support that respects both ownership and ambition.
