CcHub-Mastercard Foundation Edtech Fellowship 2026 (Cohort 4) For Edtech Startups (Up to $100k in Equity-free Funding)

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Applications are open for CcHub-Mastercard Foundation Edtech Fellowship 2026 (Cohort 4). CcHUB in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation is calling for applications for the 4th cohort of the EdTech Fellowship focused on supporting early-stage innovators developing inclusive, context-relevant solutions that improve learning outcomes and expand access to education for underserved learners. Selected innovators will receive structured support to strengthen their solutions, improve implementation readiness, and expand their reach.

Across Nigeria and the continent, many learners face limited infrastructure, disrupted schooling, gender inequities, disability exclusion, and fragmented education data systems. Yet much of EdTech innovation has been built for more stable environments.

The Inclusive EdTech Innovation Cohort is intentionally designed to strengthen solutions built for these realities. It reflects our commitment to backing innovators who serve learners often overlooked by mainstream innovation and who are building practical, inclusive solutions that expand meaningful access to learning.

Who Should Apply for CcHub-Mastercard Foundation Edtech Fellowship

This programme is for Edtech Startups who are:

Building for Learners Living with Disabilities
Building Solutions for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), and Underserved or Rural Communities
Building Solutions for young girls and women
Building for National and Subnational Education Data Systems

Benefits

Selected fellows will benefit from:

Product development and inclusive design support
Mentorship from experts in education, technology and innovation
Access to ecosystem partners and implementation opportunities
Strategic guidance to strengthen impact, sustainability and growth
$100,000 in Equity-free funding

CcHub-Mastercard Foundation Edtech Fellowship Program Structure

Phase 1: Incubation phase: Startups will undergo a 12-month incubation process with deep technical and implementation support.

Learning Science
- Adopting evidenced-based pedagogical principles
Human-Centered Design
- Inclusive design practices with target demographics
User Research
- Special education, gender inclusion, education systems, and policy.
Product Development
- Test solutions in real contexts and strengthen readiness for adoption.

Phase 2: Post-Incubation phase: Following incubation, startups will receive six months of follow-on support focused on growth and sustainability.

Go-to-Market Strategy
- Refining business models, pricing, and user acquisition pathways.
Investment Readiness
- Workshops and mentorship to prepare for fundraising and pitch to investors.
Distribution & Partnerships
- Participation in visibility platforms such as the EdTech Festival, and introductions to key distribution and implementation partners.
Branding & Marketing
- Strategic communications support to strengthen brand identity and user trust.