Applications are now CLOSED. Thank you to everyone who applied for AY2526 Cohort 2.

Turn Your Innovative Idea Into a Thriving Startup.

Applications for AY2526 Cohort 2 are now closed. Thank you to all the innovators who applied!

Watch Info Session Recording View Benefits

Your Launchpad for Groundbreaking Solutions

MASA, which stands for Mentorship in Action for Startup Acceleration, is your platform to develop groundbreaking solutions and build a successful startup.

This intensive program is a collaboration between the University of Botswana and BIUST. It is developed with the support of the MIT Sandbox Innovation Fund Program and in partnership with the UM6P Explorer Programme, bringing world-class entrepreneurial resources right to you.

Students collaborating in a modern office

Hear From Our Innovators

Watch how the MASA Innovation Program is empowering students to build confidence, test their assumptions, and create real-world impact in Botswana.

Your Toolkit for Startup Success

A team working together on a project with sticky notes

Expert Mentorship

Receive one-on-one guidance from seasoned entrepreneurs and industry leaders.

Seed Funding & Resources

Gain access to equity-free funding, makerspace tools, and co-working areas.

A Powerful Network

Connect with innovators, investors, and partners from Botswana and beyond.

View All 10 Program Benefits →

Your Journey From Idea to Launch

Applications Open

Closed

Application Deadline

Passed (March 13)

Acceptance Letters

April 10

Program Kickoff

April 22

What to Expect: 2026 Monthly Sprints

April: Foundations

Session 1 on April 27-30. Focus on core concepts and initial planning.

Mock Funding: April 23

May: Validation

Session 2 on May 25-29. Learn to test your ideas and gather feedback.

Deliverable: Assumptions Framework.

June: Engagement

Session 3 on June 22-26. Master the art of connecting with your audience.

Deliverable: Customer Interviews.

July: Acceleration

Session 4 on July 27-31. Prepare to pitch your startup to the world.

Deliverable: Final Business Pitch.

Watch the Information Session

Missed the live event? Watch the recording to get a full overview of the program, understand the expectations, and prepare for future application cycles.

Watch the Recording Now

Applications Closed

Applications for AY2526 Cohort 2 are now closed. Thank you to everyone who submitted their startup proposals.

  • You are a current student (undergraduate or graduate) at the University of Botswana or BIUST.
  • You are a member of the public who has partnered with a current UB or BIUST student.
  • The designated project leader for the application must be a current student from either university.
  • Note: This application cycle is for new teams only.

AY2526 Cohort 2 Registration

Status: Closed
Closed On: March 13, 2026

* For New Teams Only

Missed the deadline? You can still watch the Info Session recording to learn about the program expectations and get a head start for future cohorts.

A group of students presenting their project

Developed in Collaboration With

Logos of our partners: MIT Sandbox, EXPLORER, University of Botswana, BIUST, and UNDP