TLDR
Qualcomm has launched applications for its ‘Make in Africa’ Startup Mentorship Program The equity-free program is part of Qualcomm’s African Innovation Platform Applications are open until February 16, with the program running from April to December 2025
Qualcomm has launched applications for the latest edition of its ‘Make in Africa’ Startup Mentorship Program, which supports early-stage African startups using advanced connectivity and processing technologies.
The equity-free program, part of Qualcomm’s African Innovation Platform, offers business coaching, engineering consultation for product development, and intellectual property (IP) protection guidance.
Selected startups will gain direct access to Qualcomm engineers and business mentors. Applications are open until February 16, with the program running from April to December 2025.
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Key Takeaways
Qualcomm’s mentorship program reflects the growing demand for deep-tech innovation in Africa. As more startups focus on hardware, IoT, AI, and 5G applications, access to technical expertise and IP protection is crucial. Africa’s hardware and semiconductor ecosystem remains underdeveloped, with most startups focusing on software-driven solutions. Qualcomm’s initiative aims to bridge this gap by fostering local talent in connectivity and processing technologies. By offering mentorship without equity commitments, Qualcomm positions itself as a strategic enabler of Africa’s tech-driven future, potentially paving the way for deeper investment in the continent’s emerging tech infrastructure.
