UNDP timbuktoo MineTech Accelerator Program 2025 (Mentorship, Funding, and Global Networks)

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Are you an innovative entrepreneur building groundbreaking solutions for the mining sector in Africa? Are you using technology such as data visualisation, drone applications with particular focus on waste treatment, efficient mineral recovery methods, and data interpretation, or other mining innovations that enhance operational efficiency, safety and sustainability? Apply now to join the timbuktoo MineTech Accelerator Programme, designed to empower startups to scale and succeed across Africa.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation, and National Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research (NISIR) are excited to announce the timbuktoo MineTech Accelerator Programme, a transformative initiative of the timbuktoo MineTech Hub designed to drive innovation in mining technology, empower start-ups, and scale transformative technologies in the African mining sector. The timbuktoo MineTech Hub is a first of its kind on the African Continent with a focus on reimagining the mining industry through the empowerment of youth-led startups. The Accelerator Programme provides access to networks, high tech products, and financial resources. Through the Accelerator Programme, the timbuktoo initiativeaims to foster sustainability and operational efficiency, unlocking new opportunities for socio-economic development across the continent.

The timbuktoo MineTech Accelerator Programme aims to identify and support innovative mining-tech start-ups from across Africa, focusing on tech-enabled solutions that revolutionise the mining industry.

timbuktoo MineTech Accelerator Programme Benefits

The selected start-ups will receive access to mentorship, funding, and link to global networks, enabling them to scale and implement cutting-edge solutions that address critical challenges in the sector.
For the second phase of the programme, the selected start-ups will each receive $25,000 in equity-free funding, enabling them to refine their solutions and scale their businesses.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Startups with founders who are nationals of an African country and domiciled in Africa
Startups must be registered and operating within Africa.
Startups must address mining industry challenges.
Startups at the pre-seed stage are welcome to apply, but those with an MVP (seed) are encouraged to do so.
Start-ups led by women, persons with disabilities (PWDs) or other marginalized groups are encouraged to apply.

Evaluation Criteria for timbuktoo MineTech Accelerator Programme

Innovative Potential (20%): Assesses originality and technical feasibility.
Market Fit (20%): Evaluates relevance to mining challenges and target market validation.
Sustainability and Impact (15%): Measures environmental, social, and economic contributions.
Team Capability (25%): Focuses on expertise, problem-solving, and program commitment.
Scalability and Viability (10%): Looks at growth potential and clarity in revenue or fundraising strategy.
Alignment with Goals (5%): Ensures alignment with programme objectives of innovation and sustainability.
Presentation (5%): Evaluates clarity and communication of vision and solution.