Application Deadline: January 30th, 2026.
Applications are now open for the 2026 MEST Africa-Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship Program. The Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship is an entrepreneurship acceleration program designed to support promising African EdTech ventures. The Fellowship provides select EdTech companies with critical business and financial support, as well as insight into the science of learning, preparing them for scale, sustainability, and impact.
By fostering collaboration, innovation, and entrepreneurship, this accelerator is dedicated to catalyzing positive change in education by equipping the next generation of learners with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Requirements
- To be eligible for the program, startups, SMEs, and NGOs can apply if they meet the following criteria.
- Your business must be registered in Ghana and have been in operation for at least 3 years.
- Additionally, you should offer a tech or tech-enabled solution aimed at enhancing educational outcomes across K-12, tertiary education, and vocational skills training by addressing key challenges.
- Your business should be at the growth stage and have achieved product-market fit with active users or customers.
- Startups with diverse and experienced teams are encouraged to apply.
Inclusive solutions that target underserved communities are especially encouraged to apply.
Benefits
Mentorship Network
Specialized support from sector experts aligned with the unique challenges and opportunities of your startup
Accelerated Growth & Impact
Benefit from a structured curriculum designed to accelerate the growth and development of EdTech start-ups, and impact more lives
Market Access
Valuable opportunities to showcase your solutions to key stakeholders, expanding your reach and impact in the education sector
Funding Opportunities
Receive $60,000 equity-free funding and access other funding opportunities to fuel the growth and sustainability of your business
Application Procedure:
- Stage I: Fill out and submit the application form online before the deadline
- Stage II: Shortlisted companies will be invited for a virtual pitch and interview
- Stage III: Final selection of startups onboarded into the program
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the MEST Africa-Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship Program
