Meta has opened applications for the 2025 Llama Impact Accelerator, an AI-focused program aimed at supercharging startups in Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Senegal.
The initiative is designed to help local founders build powerful, scalable solutions using Meta’s open-source Llama language models.
The 8-month program kicks off with a 6-week in-person accelerator this August, followed by 6 months of post-program support. Startups working in key sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture, safety, and public services are encouraged to apply.
Selected startups will benefit from:
- Equity-free funding of up to $25,000
- Technical training and mentorship from Meta engineers
- Opportunities to pitch for up to $100,000 at the AMET Llama Summit
- Possible access to Meta’s global AI innovation grants
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, startups must:
- Be based in Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, or South Africa
- Have a working prototype or MVP
- Align with country-specific challenge areas
- Be available for in-person sessions during the accelerator.
Key Dates:
- Applications open: May 26, 2025
- Deadline to apply: June 27, 2025
- Accelerator launch: August 2025
- Demo Days: September – October 2025
- Post-program support: October 2025 – March 2026
This move by Meta comes just months after the release of Llama 3, its most powerful open-source AI model to date. The program is part of Meta’s broader mission to support inclusive AI innovation and empower the next generation of African tech leaders.
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