UNDP Opens Applications for timbuktoo Launchpad Pan-African MineTech Startup Incubation Programme

Short Description

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is inviting MineTech startups from across Africa to apply for the timbuktoo Launchpad Pan-African MineTech Startup Incubation Programme. Through the timbuktoo MineTech Hub, hosted in Zambia, selected startups will receive incubation support, mentorship, investment readiness assistance, and access to a continent-wide innovation ecosystem. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with the first cohort commencing in July 2026.

Overview

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), through its flagship timbuktoo Initiative, has opened applications for the Pan-African MineTech Startup Incubation Programme.

Delivered through the timbuktoo MineTech Hub, hosted in Zambia, the programme is designed to identify and support African startups developing innovative technologies that improve mining safety, environmental sustainability, mineral governance and value chain development across the continent.

Selected startups will participate in structured incubation programmes delivered by accredited incubators within the timbuktoo network while gaining access to experienced mentors, investors, ecosystem partners and digital business development tools to accelerate growth and investment readiness.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with the first cohort commencing in July 2026.

Programme Benefits

Successful startups will receive:

• Structured incubation delivered by accredited African incubators

• Access to experienced mentors, industry experts and entrepreneurs

• Investment readiness support and investor engagement opportunities

• Access to the timbuktoo digital platform powered by Seedstars SIGMA

• AI-powered startup guidance and business development resources

• Participation in a pan-African innovation ecosystem of founders, investors and ecosystem partners

• Opportunities to connect with potential investors and strategic partners

Who Can Apply?

Applicants should:

• Be based in Africa or developing solutions for African mining markets

• Have a working prototype or Minimum Viable Product (MVP)

• Have a committed founding team

• Be developing innovative technologies addressing challenges within the mining value chain

• Demonstrate strong growth and scalability potential

UNDP particularly encourages applications from:

• Women-led startups

• Youth-led startups

• Founders from underserved and mining-affected communities

MineTech Focus Areas

The programme welcomes startups developing solutions in areas including:

• Mine safety technologies and workforce protection

• Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) formalisation and mechanisation

• Mineral traceability and responsible resource governance

• Environmental monitoring and climate resilience

• Lithium-ion battery design and value chain development

• Remote and autonomous mining operations

• Mine dewatering, ventilation and geotechnical risk management

• Market access, trade and financial inclusion for mining-linked businesses

Eligible Countries

Applications are open to startups:

• Based in any African country; or

• Developing technology solutions for African mining markets.

Programme Location

The timbuktoo MineTech Hub is hosted in Zambia, with incubation support delivered through a distributed network of accredited incubators and innovation hubs across Africa.

Application Process

Applications are submitted online through the timbuktoo Launchpad application platform.

Applications remain open throughout the year and startups are admitted into new cohorts every three months.

Important Dates

Applications: Open (Rolling Basis)

First Cohort Begins: July 2026

Future Cohorts: Every three months

About timbuktoo

timbuktoo is UNDP's flagship pan-African innovation initiative aimed at positioning Africa as a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship.

Over the next decade, the initiative aims to:

• Mobilise US$1 billion in investment

• Support 10,000 African startups

• Scale 1,000 high-growth enterprises

• Improve livelihoods for 100 million people

• Generate US$10 billion in economic value across Africa

The timbuktoo MineTech Hub, hosted in Zambia, serves as the initiative's pan-African centre for mining and mineral governance innovation, connecting startups with investors, ecosystem partners and policymakers to accelerate mining innovation across the continent.

Application Portal: https://airtable.com/appYbpSCCV1VosC1M/pagMQfKHj9mIYPFyN/form

Click HERE to visit the official website.