About Us

What is MEST?

MEST is an Africa-wide technology entrepreneur training program, internal seed fund, and network of hubs offering incubation for technology startups in Africa. Founded in Ghana in 2008, MEST provides critical skills training, funding, and support in software development, business, and communications to Africa’s tech entrepreneurs. Hubs are located in Accra, Ghana; Lagos, Nigeria; Cape Town, South Africa; and Nairobi, Kenya. MEST is funded by the Meltwater Foundation, the non-profit arm of Meltwater, a global leader in media intelligence and Outside Insight.

The Three Mest Pillars

MEST consists of a 1-year training program at our Headquarters in Accra, Ghana, followed by support and mentorship through our hub network across Africa. All members of MEST become part of our Africa-wide tech community, and receive access to our network of mentors, entrepreneurs, corporate partners and more.

Training Program

Aspiring entrepreneurs from across Africa apply each year to participate in a fully-funded, one-year entrepreneurship training program in Accra, Ghana. The program dives deep in business, tech and communications, with an emphasis on practical experience.

Incubation & Seed Funding

Graduates of the MEST Training Program who successfully convince our board will receive seed funding and full support to launch their businesses with MEST incubation, with a goal of scaling across African markets.

African Tech Community

Our tech community of leading entrepreneurs, investors, corporate partners and ecosystem players spans across the continent. Members of MEST have access to our network, and to one another, as they grow their companies.

Become an Entrepreneur-In-Training

Do you think you can be one of Africa’s most promising entrepreneurs? Every year, aspiring entrepreneurs with a strong interest in technology and entrepreneurship from across Africa apply for 60 open spots at our one year, fully sponsored, graduate-level training program in Accra, Ghana.

Apply to become an EIT

Our History

“I believe that talent is everywhere though opportunity is not, and with the right support and guidance these aspiring entrepreneurs can achieve great things.“

Jorn Lyseggen,
Founder CEO, Meltwater and MEST

The Meltwater Foundation

MEST was launched by The Meltwater Foundation, the not-for-profit arm of Meltwater, in 2008. Headquartered in Silicon Valley, Meltwater is a global leader in media intelligence and Outside Insight.

2000+ Employees

MEST entrepreneurs have access to Meltwater’s extensive network, filled with experts in sales, engineering, marketing and more.

HQ in Silicon Valley

MEST leverages Meltwater’s deep connections with investors, entrepreneurs and more across Silicon Valley, Europe and globally.

60 Offices Around the World

Meltwater is truly global, with 60 offices around the world, serving more than 30,000 corporate clients.

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