CMU-Africa wants startups for its innovation talent programme

Carnegie Mellon University Africa has opened applications for its 2026 TechSkills Marketplace Programme, designed to help African startups strengthen their technical capacity.

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What’s on offer Who can apply Requirements Deadline

The initiative links companies needing hands-on expertise in software engineering, artificial intelligence, data systems and product design with CMU-Africa graduate students.

Overall, the initiative aims to provide practical, high-level talent that can help teams solve technical challenges and move their ideas closer to market readiness.

What’s on offer

Selected startups gain access to skilled student interns who contribute directly to product development, system upgrades, and technical innovation.

Although participating companies are required to co-fund the internship, they benefit from affordable technical support as well as mentorship sessions with CMU-Africa faculty and experts.

The programme also strengthens Africa’s innovation pipeline by giving students meaningful industry-based experience.

Who can apply

The call targets startups and MSMEs across Africa that are ready to host student talent. Eligible applicants must:

Be legally registered and operational in an African country.
Have a working business model or a product currently in development.
Be able to co-fund the internship placement.
Provide clear technology-focused projects (digital platforms, data systems, product redesign, AI-driven solutions, etc.).
Offer a supportive environment committed to mentorship and collaboration.
Allow remote or hybrid engagement with student interns.

Requirements

Applicants must submit a well-defined project detailing its purpose, expected technical contributions and the intern’s role.

Companies should demonstrate their readiness to collaborate closely with student teams and show how the proposed tasks align with their digital innovation goals.

A strong commitment to hands-on mentorship is essential.