Qualcomm has opened applications for the Qualcomm Make in Africa (QMIA) Startup Mentorship Program 2026, an equity-free initiative designed to support early-stage African startups that are building innovative, technology-driven solutions.

This flagship program targets startups working with advanced connectivity and computing technologies, including hardware and end-to-end system solutions, and provides them with expert mentorship, technical guidance, and business development support to accelerate their growth.

What the Program Offers

Selected startups will gain access to a comprehensive incubation experience, including:

• Equity-free participation for up to 10 African startups

• One-on-one mentorship with Qualcomm engineers and industry experts

• Engineering consultations to support product development and system design

• Expert-led masterclasses covering:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI & AI-Hub)

  • Internet of Things (IoT)

  • Extended Reality (XR)

  • AI-powered computing (AI-PC)

  • 5G technologies

  • Intellectual Property (IP) law and protection

• Access to Qualcomm Academy for additional business, technology, and IP training

• Use-case proposals using platforms such as Arduino Uno Q are welcome

Visibility & Industry Exposure

• Participation in a virtual Demo Day and Finale Event in December 2026

• Startup showcases to global audiences, investors, and industry leaders

• Announcement of the Social Impact Fund award winner

Program Timeline

• Applications Open: 17 December 2025

• Applications Close: 15 February 2026

• Startup Shortlisting: March 2026

• Mentorship Program: April – November 2026

• Demo Day & Finale: December 2026

About Qualcomm

Qualcomm is a global leader in AI, high-performance and low-power computing, and advanced connectivity technologies. Through programs like Make in Africa, Qualcomm is committed to driving innovation, supporting African entrepreneurs, and engineering solutions that address real-world challenges.