About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
Over the next decade, timbuktoo seeks to:
• MobilAfrica is home to more than 100 million young people who require access to inclusive, high-quality education tailored to local realities. UNDP believes that technology-driven innovation can play a critical role in addressing this challenge by improving learning opportunities, expanding access to education, and strengthening skills development across the continent.
Through the timbuktoo EdTech Hub, the programme aims to:
Engineering & Technology
• Strengthen African education technology solutions.
• Promote the institutional adoption of innovative EdTech products.
• Catalyse investment in the education technology sector.
• Generate evidence on the impact of digital learning solutions.
• Contribute to the long-term transformation of education systems across Africa.
Successful startups will become part of the timbuktoo Launchpad, where they will receive support to accelerate their growth and expand their impactise US$1 billion in investment.
• Support 10,000 African startups.
• Scale 1,000 high-growth businesses (gazelles).
• Improve the lives of 100 million people.
• Generate US$10 billion in economic value across Africa.
Business Formation
The initiative operates through a growing network of specialised innovation hubs located across the continent, each focusing on priority sectors with significant development and economic potential.
About the timbuktoo EdTech Hub
Located in Dakar, Senegal, the timbuktoo EdTech Hub serves as a pan-African centre dedicated to innovation in education technology.
The Hub works with startups, governments, educational institutions, investors, and ecosystem partners to strengthen Africa’s education systems through technology-driven solutions.
Its objectives include:
• Supporting innovative African EdTech companies.
• Encouraging the adoption of education technologies by public institutions.
School Supplies & Classroom Equipment
• Attracting investment into the EdTech sector.
• Generating evidence on the effectiveness of digital education solutions.
• Promoting sustainable transformation of education systems across Africa.
How to Apply
Eligible startups are invited to submit their applications through the dedicated online application platform provided by UNDP.
Interested applicants should ensure that their solutions meet the programme’s eligibility requirements before submitting their applications.
Driving Innovation in African Education
The UNDP timbuktoo EdTech Hub represents a significant opportunity for African innovators working to improve education through technology. By combining incubation, mentorship, investment readiness support, and access to continental networks, the programme aims to accelerate the growth of startups that can expand access to quality education, strengthen skills development, and contribute to the future of learning across Africa
How to apply