The Innovation Hub at Carnegie Mellon University Africa is excited to announce the opening of startup/MSMEs applications for the 2026 TechSkills Marketplace Program.
Through this programme, startups gain access to skilled interns in areas such as AI, data science, software engineering, and product development, while contributing to hands-on learning that drives Africa’s digital transformation.
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- 2025 Cowrywise Ambassadors Programme for Nigerian Undergraduates (Scholarships, Internships, Certifications, Skills Development & Career Opportunities)
- Aradel Oil and Gas Internship Program 2025/2026 (Monthly Stipend & Hands-on training)
When is the Application Deadline:
December 1, 2025
(Applications open annually from 1 November – 1 December.)
Tell Me About The Award:
The TechSkills Marketplace Program is an initiative of Carnegie Mellon University Africa (CMU-Africa) designed to link African startups and MSMEs with highly skilled graduate students specialising in AI, data science, software engineering, product development, and digital innovation. Through this unique collaboration, startups gain technical expertise to accelerate their innovation goals, while students gain hands-on experience solving real-world business challenges. The programme strengthens Africa’s digital transformation ecosystem by creating mutually beneficial partnerships between industry and graduate talent.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Startups and MSMEs offering or developing solutions in areas such as:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Data Science & Analytics
- Machine Learning
- Software Engineering
- Digital Platforms & Applications
- Product Development
- Product Design & UX/UI
- Technology-driven services
- Digital Transformation & Innovation
Type:
Industry–Academic Training Program / Co-funded Internship Program.
Who can Apply?
Startups and MSMEs that are:
- Registered and operational in Africa
- Developing a clear product, service, or business model
- Willing to co-fund internship stipends
- Capable of hosting and mentoring tech interns
- Able to provide technology-driven project work (AI systems, digital platforms, product design, data solutions, etc.)
- Open to remote or hybrid collaboration with CMU-Africa graduate students
(Note: Eligibility is for companies, not students.)
How are Applicants Selected?
Selection is based on:
- Startup readiness and operational status
- Quality and relevance of proposed tech-focused projects
- Ability to mentor CMU-Africa interns
- Potential for real-world innovation and impact
- Alignment with the program’s digital transformation objectives
Startups are reviewed January–February 2026, with successful companies matched to interns in March–May 2026.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
Open to startups and MSMEs registered anywhere across Africa.
Where will the Award be Taken?
Hybrid/Remote:
- Startups operate from their home country
- Interns from CMU-Africa collaborate remotely or in hybrid mode
- In-person opportunities may vary depending on project needs
How Many Awards?
The program does not specify a fixed number.
Selection depends on:
- Startup capacity
- Mentor availability
- Match quality between interns and companies
What is the Benefit of the Award?
Participating startups gain access to:
- Highly skilled CMU-Africa graduate interns in advanced technical fields
- A co-funded internship model, with CMU-Africa covering part of the stipend
- Increased visibility within the Innovation Lab ecosystem
- Support to develop and scale technology-driven solutions
- Opportunities to nurture future tech talent
- Participation in Africa’s broader digital transformation landscape
Additional benefits noted by Scholars World include:
- Networking opportunities
- Access to high-skill technical training
- Pathway to future postgraduate scholarships (for interns)
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Internships begin June 2026
- Duration typically aligned with summer internship cycles (exact weeks differ by project)
- Matching and onboarding occur March–May 2026
How to Apply:
- Ensure your startup/MSME meets all eligibility criteria.
- Visit the TechSkills Marketplace portal on the CMU-Africa website.
- Complete the online application between November 1 – December 1, 2025.
- Submit company details, the proposed tech-focused project, and the mentorship plan.
- Await selection and matching phases beginning January 2026.
Visit the Award Webpage for Details:
CMU-Africa TechSkills Marketplace Program Page
