timbuktoo, UNDP’s pan-African innovation initiative, is recruiting experts for its UniPods Mentor Network. This new network will guide innovators at UniPods, the UNDP-supported university innovation hubs in more than 20 African countries. It is looking for AI and tech experts, domain specialists and business and strategy leaders to mentor innovators on a pro bono basis.
Deadline: 15 November 2026.
About the timbuktoo UniPods Mentor Network
UniPods are university innovation hubs supported by UNDP through timbuktoo, its initiative to build Africa’s innovation ecosystem. The Mentor Network will bring together experienced professionals to support the innovators in timbuktoo and UniPods programmes as they turn ideas into ventures.
timbuktoo is looking for mentors in three areas:
- AI and tech experts: AI, software, data or engineering
- Domain experts: deep knowledge of a sector, especially AgriTech, HealthTech, FinTech and MineTech
- Business and strategy leaders: business models, market entry, fundraising or operations
What Mentors Receive
This is a voluntary, unpaid (pro bono) role. In return, mentors:
- Join a pan-African community of experts
- Are recognised for their contribution
- Are connected to future opportunities across the timbuktoo and UNDP network
- Help shape Africa’s next generation of innovators
Who Can Apply?
- Professionals with expertise in AI and technology, a specific sector, or business and strategy
- Applicants from universities and research, government, the private sector, startups, NGOs and international organisations
- Applicants from any country, as the application form accepts mentors based anywhere in the world
- Previous mentoring experience is helpful but not required
What the Application Asks For
- Your name, email, gender, age range and the country where you are based
- A link to your LinkedIn profile, work profile, website or portfolio
- Your sector of work, job title and organisation
- Two or three sentences on your professional experience and one achievement you are proud of
- The areas and sectors you can support (AI, MineTech, AgriTech, HealthTech, FinTech and others)
- Details of your expertise and any previous mentoring or advisory experience
- What motivates you to mentor innovators in the network
- Agreement that the role is voluntary and pro bono
What Happens Next
After the call closes, timbuktoo will hold an information session. It will explain more about the network, how mentors are matched with innovators, and what to expect.
How to Apply
- Prepare a short summary of your experience, expertise and motivation.
- Complete the official timbuktoo UniPods Mentor Network form.
- Submit by 15 November 2026.
Questions can go to [email protected] with the subject “UniPods Mentor Network Inquiry”.
More timbuktoo and UNDP Opportunities
- Build Tech for Mining: Apply for the UNDP MineTech Pre-Incubation Programme 2027
- 12 Tech and AI Funding Opportunities Open Now (October 2026), including the UNDP timbuktoo HealthTech Launchpad
- CMU-Africa Certificate in Artificial Intelligence for Africa 2027: Free Online AI Training
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the timbuktoo mentor role paid?
No. It is a voluntary, pro bono role. Mentors are recognised for their contribution and connected to future opportunities across the timbuktoo and UNDP network.
Do I need mentoring experience?
No. The form asks about previous mentoring experience, but it is not mandatory.
Can I apply if I live outside Africa?
Yes. The application form accepts mentors based in any country.
When is the deadline?
15 November 2026.
