Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST)

Established in 2008, MEST is a Pan-African technology entrepreneur training program, seed fund, and incubator headquartered in Accra, Ghana. It aims to equip aspiring African entrepreneurs with the skills and resources necessary to build successful technology companies. The program offers a fully sponsored, one-year intensive training in software development, business, and communications, preparing participants to launch and scale their ventures.

Upon completion, graduates have the opportunity to pitch their business ideas for seed funding ranging from $50,000 to $250,000. Successful teams receive continued support through the MEST Incubator, which provides mentorship, office space, and access to a global network of advisors. MEST has invested in over 90 startups across the continent, fostering innovation and job creation in the African tech ecosystem.

Notable alumni include meQasa, an online property listing platform; Kudobuzz, a social commerce tool; and Asoriba, a church management software. These ventures have achieved significant milestones, such as securing international funding and recognition in global competitions, underscoring MEST's impact on nurturing successful tech entrepreneurs in Africa.