Call for Applications: Timbuktoo UniPods AI Innovation Programme Cohort 2
African innovators and early-stage teams developing artificial intelligence (AI) and AI-enabled solutions can now apply for Cohort 2 of the timbuktoo UniPods AI Innovation Programme.
The programme is designed to support innovators who have moved beyond the idea stage and are already building, testing or developing an AI-powered solution. It provides a combination of technical training, prototyping support, entrepreneurship development and mentorship to help promising innovations progress towards market readiness.
The initiative is supported through the timbuktoo innovation ecosystem, with the programme funded by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and implemented in partnership with UNDP and other ecosystem partners.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to individual innovators and teams developing AI or AI-enabled solutions at the early prototype, Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or early-stage venture stage.
Applicants are expected to demonstrate that they are actively building and testing a solution rather than submitting an idea without technical development.
Female innovators are particularly encouraged to apply.
What Selected Participants Will Receive
Successful applicants will gain access to a range of technical and entrepreneurial support, including:
- AI technical training to strengthen their development capabilities.
- Access to an AI course from MIT.
- Structured support for prototyping and solution development.
- A 14-week Wadhwani entrepreneurship programme covering customer discovery, business modelling, go-to-market strategies and investment readiness.
- Access to technical mentors for guidance during the development process.
- Connections to the wider timbuktoo innovation network across Africa.
- An opportunity for selected participants to attend an in-person bootcamp in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
A notable feature of the programme is that applicants do not need to submit a pitch deck. Instead, the initiative is focused on innovators who can demonstrate actual development work, including prototypes and code.
What Kind of Innovators Should Apply?
The opportunity is particularly relevant to developers, founders, researchers, entrepreneurs and technology teams building solutions where AI plays a meaningful role in addressing real-world challenges.
Applicants should have sufficient technical progress to demonstrate what they are building and how AI or AI-enabled technology forms part of their solution.
Application Deadline
Applications for timbuktoo UniPods AI Innovation Programme Cohort 2 close on October 30, 2026, according to current programme information.
Interested innovators are encouraged to complete the application before the deadline.
Programme: timbuktoo UniPods AI Innovation Programme
Cohort: 2
Target: African innovators and teams
Focus: AI and AI-enabled solutions
Stage: Prototype, MVP or early-stage venture
Funding: Programme support; no application fee stated
Pitch Deck: Not required
Deadline: October 30, 2026
Apply Now: Interested applicants should access the official application channel and review the eligibility requirements before submitting their applications.
