MEST Africa doubles down on AI with the launch of a new AI Startup program.

The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST Africa), one of Africa’s leading tech incubators, is pivoting to artificial intelligence with the launch of its new AI Startup Program. The AI Startup program is a redesigned version of its long-standing Entrepreneurs-in-Training (EIT) program, focusing on building the next generation of AI entrepreneurs in Africa.

For over 17 years, MEST has trained and funded software founders across the continent. With artificial intelligence rapidly reshaping industries, MEST is now positioning African entrepreneurs to lead in this new era of innovation. 

“Africa has world-class tech talent, and it’s time AI solutions built on the continent reach users everywhere,” says Emily Fiagbedzi, Director of the MEST AI Startup Program. “

The new AI Startup Program doesn’t just reflect a shift in training—it aligns with the broader investment thesis of MEST founder Jørn Lyseggen, who also leads Shack15 Ventures, a San Francisco–based early-stage fund which backs pre-seed and seed AI and deep tech startups. This strategic alignment means that top-performing startups from the MEST AI Startup Program could find a direct pathway to global capital networks, particularly those aligned with Shack15’s thesis.

The AI Startup Program, which is a fully funded, intensive, and immersive experience, will equip the most promising technology talents from West Africa with the requisite skills in technology, business, and leadership to build and scale globally competitive AI companies. The program is structured in two distinct phases. The initial seven-month training period will provide founders with hands-on instruction, technical mentorship, and business coaching from a global roster of experts. During this time, participants will focus on developing AI-powered solutions to tangible, real-world problems. Following this intensive training, the most promising ventures will be selected to advance to a four-month incubation phase, where they will refine their products, gain market traction, and hone their go-to-market strategies.

Upon completion of the incubation period, the participating startups will have the opportunity to pitch for pre-seed investment of up to $100,000 and officially join the MEST Africa portfolio.