The OST Program, a Pan-African Pre-Seed Accelerator, is now accepting applications. Co-developed with Columbia Engineering and Columbia Business School, the OST Program is tailored to support Africa’s early-stage founders and entrepreneurial talents in moving from idea to market. This edition of the program offers sharper focus and expanded support, helping startups and solo talents across the continent build impactful businesses and careers.
The program offers a unique opportunity for early-stage founders who are ready to transform proof-of-concept (POC) ideas into market-ready products, and for talented individuals seeking to integrate into dynamic startup teams.
OST Program is a
– A five-month Pan-African Pre-Seed Accelerator program designed to accelerate startups and talents. – Focuses on funding, mentorship, international exposure, and integration into Africa’s startup ecosystem. – Open to early-stage startups and individual talents from across Africa.
Benefits
– Funding & Investment Access to $20,000 SAFE investment tickets for early financial support.
– Access to the OST Portfolio & Network Join a growing Pan-African startup ecosystem and community with only 1% equity required for finalist startups entering Phase 2.
– World-Class Mentoring & Training Mentorship from Columbia faculty members and seasoned industry experts to guide startups from POC to MVP to market launch.
– International Immersion & Exposure Participate in cross-continental visits and networking events to explore new markets beyond Africa.
– Continental & Global Networks Build relationships with founders, investors, and mentors across Africa and major global innovation hubs.
– Talent Integration Startups can attract skilled individuals in tech, marketing, design, and business to fill critical team gaps and drive growth.
Benefits for Solo Talents
– Opportunity to integrate into a startup team within a full innovation ecosystem. – Access to mentorship from experts and real-world startup experience. – Develop entrepreneurial skills and expand career prospects.
Who Can Apply?
Early-Stage Startups Startups with a working proof-of-concept (POC) and the ambition to build and launch a Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
– Solo Talents Tech experts, designers, marketers, strategists, students, and early-career professionals looking to gain real startup experience. Apply here – https://lnkd.in/eTmCaxPN
– Eligibility Open to teams and individuals from all African countries.
