MEST AI Startup Program – Class of 2027

Applications for the second cohort of the MEST AI Startup Program are now open. Join a community of aspiring AI entrepreneurs to explore ideas, form teams, and build high-impact startups through intensive training and potential incubation.

Before you apply! Read this page carefully to ensure a smooth and stress-free application experience from start to finish. We wish you the very best in your application!

Application Timeline

• Applications: Open May 19, 2026 | Close July 20, 2026
• Applications reviewed on a rolling basis. Apply early for faster review.

• Shortlist Notification: Early September 2026
• In-person Interviews & Group Challenge: October 2026
• Contract Offers: Mid-October 2026
• Program Start: January 2027

About the Program

The MEST AI Startup Program is an up to 12-month immersive experience designed to equip Africa’s most promising AI entrepreneurs with the skills to build and scale globally competitive AI startups.

Training Phase (7 months: January – July 2027)

Hands-on, intensive training where you will:

• Explore and refine AI business ideas
• Develop and deploy an AI MVP
• Gain deep expertise in AI software development and business fundamentals
• Work with world-class AI practitioners, entrepreneurs, and experts
• Apply lean startup principles, business modeling, and go-to-market strategies
• Pitch for selection into the incubation phase

Incubation Phase (4 months: September – December 2027)

For the most promising startups from training. Focus on:

• Scaling AI products and securing customers
• Refining business models with real market validation
• Working with mentors, investors, and industry leaders on funding strategies
• Building a fully deployable AI product with an established user base
• Preparing for investment

Application Process

1. Program Eligibility Screening

First step to confirm you meet core eligibility criteria. Once confirmed, you’ll access the full application.

2. Application Form

Share demographic information, highlight your skills and interest, upload a short personal statement video.

3. Required Assessment

Complete an assessment evaluating your technical, business, and interpersonal skills. 

4. In-Person Group Challenge & Interviews

 Shortlisted candidates are invited to in-person interviews in Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, or Kenya.

5. Contract Offer

 Selected candidates receive contracts for review.

Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree, diploma, or equivalent experience

Age: 21-35

Experience: Demonstrated software development experience, basic understanding of AI, strong interest in entrepreneurship

Mindset: Entrepreneurial, innovative, problem-solving, lifelong learner, ready for high-intensity startup environment

Citizenship: West or East African citizen. (Note: Nationals outside of our core recruitment countries of Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, and Kenya must be able, at their own cost, to travel to one of the core countries for in-person interviews, if shortlisted.)

Availability: Fully committed for up to 12 months (7-month training + 4-month incubation) plus desire to pursue entrepreneurship full-time afterward

Preferred Skills

• Strong ability to work in cross-functional and cross-cultural teams
• Experience in AI innovation
• Interest in global market expansion
• Previous entrepreneurial experience