Qualcomm has announced the 10 startups selected for its 2025 ‘Make in Africa’ Startup Mentorship Program, part of the Qualcomm Africa Innovation Platform. This equity-free initiative, now in its third year, aims to support early-stage deep-tech startups applying advanced connectivity and processing technologies such as 5G, AI/ML, IoT, and Edge Computing to develop scalable solutions across various sectors.
The selected startups were chosen from over 430 applications across 19 African countries. They represent a diverse range of industries, including agriculture, healthcare, mobility, and sustainability. Each startup will receive seven months of mentorship, access to Qualcomm hardware, business coaching, engineering consultations, and guidance on protecting intellectual property. Additionally, one startup will be awarded the Qualcomm Wireless Reach Social Impact Fund to scale its solution.
The 10 Selected Startups
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Aframend (Nigeria) – Utilizes AI for drug discovery using African phytochemicals.
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ClimatrixAI (Nigeria) – Develops AI models for hyperlocal flood risk prediction.
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Farmer Lifeline (Kenya) – Creates solar-powered AI robots for crop disease detection.
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Pollen Patrollers (Kenya) – Offers AI-driven pollination support technology.
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Solar Freeze (Kenya) – Provides IoT-powered cold storage solutions for food preservation.
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AmalXR (Tunisia) – Develops AI-powered virtual reality rehabilitation solutions.
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Ecobees (Tunisia) – Creates smart beekeeping technology with AI monitoring.
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Pixii Motors (Tunisia) – Offers an AI/IoT-enhanced electric scooter ecosystem.
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Archeos (Benin) – Provides IoT-based solar pisciculture automation.
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Edulytics (Senegal) – Develops mobile liver fibrosis detection via ultrasound AI.
Wassim Chourbaji, Senior Vice President and President of Qualcomm Middle East and Africa, emphasized the company’s dedication to fostering innovation across the continent:
“This year’s cohort showcases how African innovators are applying advanced tech to critical issues like agriculture, health, sustainability, and mobility.”
The Qualcomm Make in Africa program continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing the growth of deep-tech startups in Africa, providing them with the resources and mentorship needed to scale their solutions and make a lasting impact
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