Qualcomm is now accepting applications for the “Make in Africa Startup Mentorship Program.” This initiative aims to identify and nurture early-stage startups with a passion for integrating advanced connectivity and processing technologies into innovative end-to-end systems solutions, encompassing hardware.
In 2023, 10 startups were shortlisted including Ecorich from kenya. Ecorich provides recycling processors in populated urban neighbourhoods. These allow households a change to generate value from their waste by generating organic fertilisers from the waste and giving it to farmers.
The Qualcomm Make in Africa Startup Mentorship Program is an equity-free initiative designed to provide comprehensive support to promising startups. This includes personalized business coaching, access to engineering consultations for product development, and guidance on safeguarding intellectual property. By offering these resources, Qualcomm aims to empower African startups to bring their innovations to the market successfully.
Program Benefits
- Mentorship: Participating startups will benefit from 1:1 mentorship sessions with Qualcomm leaders on a regular cadence. These mentorship sessions will not only guide startups through the intricacies of product development but also offer valuable insights into navigating the complex world of business.
- Skilling: The program includes masterclasses covering essential aspects of startup growth, including product management, pitch clinics, intellectual property rights (IPR), and hardware architecture. These sessions are tailored to equip entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed to steer their ventures towards success.
- Visibility: Startups enrolled in the program will have the opportunity to showcase their innovations during a dedicated Demo Day, where they can connect with various industry leaders, venture capitalists, investors, and other accelerators. This exposure is invaluable for startups seeking partnerships and funding to scale their operations.
Timeline
- Application Phase: Interested startups can submit their applications till February 18th, 2024. This period allows entrepreneurs to present their innovative ideas for consideration.
- Shortlisting of Startups: March 2024 will see the selection and shortlisting of startups that demonstrate exceptional potential and align with the program’s objectives.
- Mentorship Program: The core of the initiative will run from April 2024 to November 2024, during which Qualcomm leaders will engage in mentorship sessions with the selected startups, guiding them through the various stages of development.
- Program Finale & Demo Day: The program will come to an end in December 2024 with a grand finale and Demo Day, providing startups with a platform to showcase their progress and innovations.
How to Apply
Startups willing to participate in this mentorship program can submit their applications on the official Qualcomm website. The application window is open until February 18th, 2024.
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