Timbuktoo UniPods AI Innovation Programme Cohort 2 (2026): Apply Now

Are you building an AI product, or a solution powered by AI? Then this opportunity deserves your attention.

Applications are now open for Cohort 2 of the timbuktoo UniPods AI Innovation Programme. It is a capacity-building programme for African innovators working on early-stage AI and AI-enabled solutions. The programme is supported by timbuktoo, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).

What Is the timbuktoo UniPods AI Innovation Programme?

timbuktoo is UNDP's pan-African innovation initiative. It backs young African innovators and entrepreneurs through a network of University Innovation Pods (UniPods) and sector hubs. UniPods give students and innovators space, mentorship and technical support to turn ideas into prototypes.

The AI Innovation Programme focuses on builders who are using artificial intelligence to solve real problems. Its tagline for this cohort is "Build the AI that shapes Africa's future."

Who Should Apply?

Cohort 2 is open to individual innovators and teams building early-stage AI or AI-enabled solutions. It suits:

•AI developers and technical builders

•Early-stage founders

•Teams working on AI-powered products or services

•Innovators with an early prototype or minimum viable product (MVP)

•You should be past the "idea only" stage. The organisers say they want real code, real ideas and the drive to build. No pitch deck is required.

•Female innovators are especially encouraged to apply.

What Will Selected Innovators Get?

•An AI course from MIT

•AI technical skilling to strengthen how you build AI solutions

•Wadhwani's 14-week entrepreneurship programme, covering areas like customer discovery, business modelling, go-to-market strategy and investment readiness

•Technical mentors to guide your product development

•Access to the wider timbuktoo network of innovators, mentors and partners across Africa

•A chance to join an in-person bootcamp in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Application Deadline

📅 30 October 2026

Don't wait for the last week. Prepare your application early so you can show your work clearly.

How to Apply

👉 Application link: tinyurl.com/bdjahp2p

You can also apply directly through the official application form https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf66LePtz7uEzDpHjU3v5QW8ZUDFWTSu0PKyTHVfXbNppeKnw/viewform

Quick Tips Before You Apply

-Be ready to show what you've built, such as a demo, repository or working prototype, since no pitch deck is needed.

-Explain the real problem your AI solution solves and who it helps.

-If you're applying as a team, make sure each member's role is clear.

-Read every question carefully and submit before the deadline.

Opportunities that combine world-class AI training, business mentorship and a pan-African network don't come around often. If you're building in AI, this could be the push your solution needs.

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