The Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship, in partnership with Sahara Consult, has officially launched applications for its third cohort in 2026. Building on the success of the previous two cohorts, this fellowship continues to empower growth-stage, impact-driven EdTech companies in Tanzania that are committed to transforming education through innovation.
This program is designed to accelerate the work of EdTech entrepreneurs who are creating solutions that improve learning outcomes, inclusivity, and access to education for youth, women, persons with disabilities, and underserved communities.
Fellowship Overview
- Target Audience: Growth-stage EdTech companies based in Tanzania.
- Focus: Innovation that enhances educational outcomes and promotes inclusive learning.
- Impact Areas: Youth empowerment, women’s education, disability inclusion, and underserved communities.
- Partnership: Sahara Consult collaborates with the Mastercard Foundation to deliver tailored support and ecosystem engagement.
Benefits of the Fellowship
Selected fellows will receive a comprehensive package of support designed to strengthen their businesses and maximize their impact.
1. Customized Technical Support
- Tailored guidance to improve product quality, performance, and scalability.
- Expert input on technology infrastructure, user experience, and product-market fit.
2. Personalized Business Mentorship
- Direct coaching to refine business strategy and strengthen operations.
- Support for sustainable growth and long-term organizational resilience.
3. Regulatory Engagement Support
- Assistance in navigating education and technology regulations.
- Guidance to ensure compliance with national and international standards.
4. Strategic Partnerships
- Access to a strong network of investors, industry leaders, schools, and policymakers.
- Opportunities to build collaborations that expand reach and credibility.
5. Growth-Hacking Support
- Proven tools and strategies to rapidly grow user bases.
- Target: scaling to 8,000–10,000 learners within the fellowship period.
6. Access to CMU Online Courses
- Free short courses from Carnegie Mellon University focused on learning science.
- Opportunity to strengthen knowledge in pedagogy, digital learning, and innovation.
7. Equity-Free Funding
- Up to USD 70,000 in financial support.
- No equity or ownership taken from participating companies.
8. One-Year Post-Acceleration Support
- Continued mentorship and visibility after program graduation.
- Ongoing ecosystem engagement to sustain growth and impact.
Application Details
- Deadline: 31 January 2026 (23:59 EAT).
- Required Documents:
- BRELA Certificate
- TIN (Tax Identification Number)
- Business License
- Important Note: All documents must be legit and certified copies of originals.
Critical Reminder: AI-generated or AI-assisted responses are strictly prohibited in the application process. Any detected use of AI will result in automatic disqualification.
Why Apply?
The Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship is more than just funding—it is a transformational journey for EdTech companies. Past fellows have:
- Scaled their businesses to reach thousands of learners.
- Increased profitability and market presence.
- Built lasting collaborations with ecosystem actors.
- Gained visibility and credibility through association with the Mastercard Foundation.
This fellowship is a unique opportunity to accelerate growth, strengthen impact, and contribute to inclusive education in Tanzania.
Contact Information
For inquiries, reach out to: Email: edtech@saharaventures.com
Highlights
- The fellowship is open to Tanzanian EdTech companies at the growth stage.
- Benefits include technical support, mentorship, partnerships, funding, and post-program engagement.
- Applications close on 31 January 2026.
- AI-generated applications are not allowed.
The 2026 Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship – Cohort 3 represents a powerful opportunity for EdTech innovators in Tanzania to scale their solutions, access funding, and join a global network of changemakers. By focusing on inclusivity and innovation, the fellowship ensures that education becomes more accessible to those who need it most.
If your company is ready to transform learning outcomes and drive social impact, this fellowship could be the catalyst for your next stage of growth. Apply here
