UNDP Timbuktoo Pan-African MineTech Startup Incubation Programme 2026

The UNDP Timbuktoo Pan-African MineTech Startup Incubation Programme 2026 is an initiative designed to identify and support startups leveraging technology to enhance the safety, cleanliness, and transparency of African mining. The program, hosted at the MineTech Hub in Zambia, targets early-stage MineTech startups across Africa. It aims to help founders validate and scale their businesses by addressing critical challenges within the mining value chain, such as dangerous conditions for artisanal miners, unmonitored environmental damage, opaque supply chains, and communities seeing little benefit from resource extraction. Selected startups will receive structured incubation from accredited incubators within the timbuktoo network, along with access to mentors, investors, and founders across the continent through the timbuktoo digital platform. This platform provides mentorship matching, learning resources, and AI-powered guidance to prepare startups for investment. Eligibility requires startups to be based in Africa or developing solutions for African mining markets, possess a working prototype or MVP, and have a committed team with a clear solution to a real problem in the mining sector. Applications from women-led and youth-led startups, as well as those working in underserved or mining-affected communities, are particularly encouraged.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with new cohorts admitted every three months, and the first cohort commencing in July 2026. Interested startups should click on the application link provided on the opportunity website to apply.