Global wireless technology leader Qualcomm has officially opened applications for its latest Make in Africa Startup Mentorship Programme, an initiative designed to support early-stage African startups working on advanced connectivity, processing technologies, and innovative end-to-end system solutions.
The equity-free mentorship programme aims to provide participating startups with business coaching, engineering consultation, and guidance on intellectual property (IP) protection, helping them scale their innovations and navigate the complexities of technology development.
Supporting Innovation in Africa’s Tech Ecosystem
Qualcomm, a NASDAQ-listed multinational, is renowned for its groundbreaking contributions to semiconductor technology, wireless communications, and software development. By launching the Make in Africa Startup Mentorship Programme, the company reaffirms its commitment to fostering Africa’s growing technology ecosystem.
The initiative is designed for early-stage startups that are keen on leveraging cutting-edge connectivity solutions and hardware-driven innovations to solve real-world challenges. Qualcomm’s extensive resources and expertise will provide technical and strategic support, ensuring that selected startups gain valuable insights into:
- Product development – Access to Qualcomm’s world-class engineers for technical guidance.
- Intellectual property protection – Expert mentorship on safeguarding proprietary technology.
- Business strategy – Coaching sessions to refine go-to-market approaches and operational efficiency.
By focusing on hardware and deep-tech startups, Qualcomm aims to fill a critical gap in Africa’s innovation landscape, where access to technical mentorship, R&D expertise, and intellectual property resources remains limited.
Application Details and Programme Timeline
Applications for the Make in Africa Startup Mentorship Programme are open until February 16, with the programme scheduled to run from April to December 2025.
Selected startups will undergo a structured mentorship journey, benefiting from tailored support to refine their product-market fit, technological capabilities, and IP strategy. The programme will also introduce participants to global industry leaders, potential investors, and Qualcomm’s extensive network of partners, further enhancing their opportunities for success.
Read also: Apply Now: i3’s 3rd Cohort for African Healthtech Innovators
Why This Matters for African Startups
Africa’s startup ecosystem is experiencing rapid growth, with an increasing number of founders developing hardware and connectivity solutions to address challenges in healthcare, agriculture, energy, and finance. However, these startups often face barriers such as:
- Limited access to expert technical mentorship in hardware and wireless technology.
- Challenges in protecting intellectual property, particularly in global markets.
- Gaps in funding and business strategy for hardware-focused ventures.
Qualcomm’s mentorship programme directly addresses these pain points, equipping startups with the resources and guidance needed to develop, scale, and protect their innovations.
The Make in Africa Startup Mentorship Programme presents a unique opportunity for African startups working in wireless technology, advanced connectivity, and hardware solutions to receive world-class mentorship and technical guidance.
With Africa’s deep-tech ecosystem still in its early stages, Qualcomm’s initiative could play a pivotal role in accelerating innovation, fostering intellectual property awareness, and helping African startups compete on a global scale.
Entrepreneurs looking to leverage Qualcomm’s expertise and global networks can apply for the programme before February 16 and take the first step toward scaling their technology-driven solutions.
