In today’s fast-paced startup world, Africa continues to rise as a hub of innovation, entrepreneurial energy, and untapped potential. The OST Program for African Startups, co-designed with Columbia Engineering and Columbia Business School, is at the forefront of this transformation. It stands as a premier accelerator for bold, early-stage ventures looking to build impactful solutions from the ground up.
Empowering Africa’s Brightest Innovators
To begin with, the OST Program is more than just an accelerator—it’s a launchpad for innovation across the continent. Spanning five action-packed months, this hybrid pre-seed accelerator supports selected startups from the proof-of-concept (POC) stage to the development of a minimum viable product (MVP). Moreover, it facilitates the launch of these promising solutions, thereby turning ideas into real-world impact.
Participants are not left to navigate this journey alone. Instead, they benefit from customized training, technical support, and an international network of ecosystem builders, investors, and industry leaders. Furthermore, finalists stand a chance to receive three $20,000 SAFE investment tickets—a powerful boost for any startup ready to scale.
Program Highlights That Set OST Apart
One of the key highlights of the OST Program is the regional gathering in Tunisia, a vibrant in-person convergence where selected startup teams collaborate with Columbia Business School experts and MBA students. Here, the sharing of ideas, feedback, and vision fosters long-term partnerships and actionable strategies.
At the same time, the program is uniquely inclusive. It nurtures high-potential talents in fields like tech, business, and design, who join participating startups to gain hands-on experience—creating a symbiotic relationship where innovation thrives on collaboration.
OST Program Milestones
- Program Launch
- Selection & Regional Gathering
- Training & Mentoring
- Pitching Day
Each phase is carefully designed to maximize growth, encourage reflection, and equip entrepreneurs for real-world challenges.
Eligibility Criteria
For Startups:
- You must be in the pre-seed or seed stage, with a strong proof-of-concept.
- Your team must include a committed founder or co-founder ready to engage full-time.
- Your product must be tech-enabled and address a real market need.
- You should be aiming for pan-African or global growth.
For Talents:
- You’re a young professional from Africa, seeking startup experience.
- You bring backgrounds in technology, business, marketing, or design.
- You’re passionate about entrepreneurship and solving real-world problems.
- You have strong communication and collaboration skills and are proficient in English.
Outstanding Benefits of the OST Program
World-Class Training
Firstly, you’ll receive high-quality training led by international experts, tailored to the African innovation landscape. These sessions cover everything from startup growth to market validation and fundraising.
Dedicated Mentorship
Secondly, one-on-one mentoring ensures that every startup gets strategic insights from seasoned professionals. This helps refine your model, overcome obstacles, and push forward with clarity.
Collaborate with Columbia MBA Students
In addition to mentorship, you’ll collaborate directly with Columbia MBA students. As a result, you benefit from fresh perspectives, analytical skills, and strategic thinking that can transform your startup’s trajectory.
Pan-African Talent Network
During the program, startups engage with diverse talent from across Africa—an environment that promotes cross-cultural collaboration, accelerates idea exchange, and widens support systems.
Global Visibility
Furthermore, the program offers international exposure, helping you attract investors, partners, and customers from across the globe. Exposure is not just beneficial—it’s often the game-changer.
Access to the OST Community
You also join a vibrant and supportive community of entrepreneurs, alumni, and mentors. Here, collaboration, peer learning, and cross-pollination of ideas create a fertile ground for innovation.
SAFE Investment Tickets
For top-performing startups, the opportunity to secure three SAFE tickets worth $20K each provides a significant funding runway. This financial injection can be the catalyst that propels your solution into the next growth phase.
International Immersion Trips
On top of everything, the program also covers international immersions. These trips allow you to participate in world-renowned tech and startup events, offering a global stage to pitch your idea.
Operational Support via Paid Services
What’s more, startups gain access to paid services that support business operations, from legal advisory to branding. It’s not just about learning—it’s about doing and doing it right.
One Small Condition for Long-Term Impact
While the program provides immense value, it also promotes long-term ecosystem sustainability. Therefore, selected finalists are requested to allocate a symbolic 1% equity to Open Startup (OST). This simple step helps fuel the initiative for future innovators.
Why This Program is a Game-Changer
To sum up, the OST Program for African Startups is not just another accelerator. It’s a powerful ecosystem builder that combines global insights with local relevance. Whether you’re a startup founder or a rising talent, this program empowers you to co-create Africa’s future through technology, business, and creativity.
Ready to Make Your Move?
If you’re a bold founder or a rising star with a passion for impact, this is your moment. Don’t miss out on the chance to join an elite cohort of innovators shaping the future of African entrepreneurship.
👉 Apply now. Build tomorrow.
FAQs
What is a SAFE investment ticket?
A SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity) is a funding contract where investors receive equity at a later funding round—no need for immediate valuation.
Can solo founders apply?
Yes, as long as you’re fully committed and meet the eligibility criteria.
Is prior startup experience required for talents?
Not necessarily! Enthusiasm, communication skills, and relevant backgrounds are what matter most.
Are the training sessions online or in person?
Primarily hybrid, with remote sessions and a regional in-person gathering in Tunisia.
What if I’m already running a small business?
That’s fine! As long as you meet the criteria and have an MVP or strong POC.
When will the next cohort begin?
The program launch is typically announced at the beginning of each year. Be sure to monitor the OST site for updates.
