10 African Startups Win Qualcomm Mentorship Spots

Ten startups across Africa are about to get a serious boost in their mission to solve problems affecting millions of people.

Qualcomm just announced the winners of its 2026 Make In Africa Startup Mentorship Program, selecting 10 companies from over 1,200 applications spanning 45 countries. Each startup will receive seven months of intensive mentorship, access to Qualcomm's advanced technology, and opportunities to secure funding through the Qualcomm Wireless Reach Social Impact Fund.

The winners represent solutions addressing agriculture, clean energy, education, and accessibility. Their innovations tackle real challenges people face every day across the continent.

Several startups are transforming how farmers work and earn. MVUTU (GreenBox) created solar-powered cold storage units that help smallholder farmers keep produce fresh longer, dramatically reducing the waste that cuts into their income. Sesi Technologies built an AI device that lets cocoa farmers assess crop quality early and bring transparency to supply chains.

Anatsor helps poultry farmers manage operations digitally, tracking animal health and boosting productivity. D-Olivette Labs uses data and bio-intelligence to make farming more efficient and sustainable, while TWave developed an automated, solar-powered fish feeding system that reduces manual labor for aquaculture farmers.

Beyond agriculture, the selected startups are expanding access to essential services. SafeSip is bringing safe drinking water to rural areas with technology that removes harmful contaminants. Amperra Charging Company is building an AI-driven electric vehicle charging network across Southern Africa, making sustainable transport more practical.

QualiKeeper Investments developed an affordable livestock monitoring system that works even in areas with poor internet connectivity. The company also teaches young people coding skills, building the next generation of digital innovators.

Two startups are breaking down barriers for people with disabilities. Mindora Corporation created a Braille keyboard that gives visually impaired users better digital access. Zerobionic designs assistive robotics that help people with disabilities live more independently.

The Ripple Effect

This program does more than help individual companies grow. By connecting entrepreneurs with technology, expertise, and capital, it's strengthening Africa's entire innovation ecosystem. The startups create jobs, develop local talent, and prove that African solutions to African challenges can scale.

Now in its fourth year, the program shows Qualcomm's growing commitment to African innovation. Each cohort builds on the last, creating a network of successful entrepreneurs who can mentor future generations.

These ten startups are turning everyday challenges into opportunities for progress across the continent.