Qualcomm has launched the latest edition of its ‘Make in Africa’ Startup Mentorship Program, inviting early-stage African startups to apply. This initiative is designed to support ventures that harness advanced connectivity and processing technologies, fostering innovation across the continent.
As part of Qualcomm’s African Innovation Platform, the equity-free program provides selected startups with invaluable resources, including business coaching, engineering consultation for product development, and guidance on intellectual property (IP) protection. By equipping entrepreneurs with technical expertise and strategic insights, Qualcomm aims to accelerate the growth of Africa’s deep-tech sector.
Successful applicants will have direct access to Qualcomm’s engineers and business mentors, receiving hands-on support throughout the program. Applications are open until February 16, with the mentorship running from April to December 2025.
The program reflects the rising demand for deep-tech innovation in Africa, where an increasing number of startups are exploring hardware development, IoT, AI, and 5G applications. Given the continent’s traditionally software-driven ecosystem, access to advanced technical knowledge and IP protection is crucial for fostering sustainable growth in these fields.
Despite Africa’s potential, its hardware and semiconductor industries remain underdeveloped.
Main Image: Disrupt Africa
