The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), through the timbuktoo EdTech Hub, has launched a call for applications for African startups and digital solution providers working in education, training and skills development. The Pan-African Incubation Programme for EdTech Startups aims to support innovative and scalable African EdTech solutions that can contribute to the transformation of education systems across the continent. It seeks to strengthen locally developed education technologies, encourage their institutional adoption, catalyse investment, generate evidence of impact and promote the sustainable transformation of African education systems. Selected startups will join the timbuktoo Launchpad.
Programme Benefits
Selected startups will receive:
• Structured Incubation: Participation in an incubation programme delivered by leading African incubators.
• Mentorship and Expert Support: Access to experienced mentors, entrepreneurs and education-sector experts.
• Pan-African Ecosystem Access: Opportunities to connect with a continental network of founders, incubators and ecosystem partners.
• Digital Platform Access: Access to the SIGMA digital platform.
• Investment Readiness: Support to prepare startups for investment and future growth.
• Acceleration and Funding Opportunities: Access to acceleration programmes and potential early-stage investment opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
• Be based in Africa.
• Offer a solution related to education, training or skills development.
• Have a prototype that can be tested or deployed in a local context.
• Have a committed team available to participate fully in the incubation programme.
Priority Applicants
UNDP particularly encourages applications from startups that are:
• Led by women.
• Based in or originating from rural areas.
• Integrating local languages into their solutions.
• Developing accessibility-focused or inclusive education solutions.
Application Details
• Application Deadline: 31 December 2026, according to the Funds for Companies listing.
• Application Method: Applications must be submitted through the programme’s dedicated online application form.
Interested startups and digital solution providers should consult the official UNDP programme announcement for complete information and submit their applications through the designated application platform.