Tech Wings Africa is opening a new pathway for early-career tech professionals in Kenya and Uganda to accelerate their careers. Fully funded by the Austrian Development Agency and delivered by Tunga Academy, StartHub Africa and VC4A, the six-month program provides hands-on experience, practical training and dedicated mentorship to help participants succeed in the fast-changing tech industry. By offering structured tracks for startup founders and professionals seeking real-world experience, the initiative equips individuals with the skills, guidance and networks they need to launch businesses, grow in their careers and contribute to Africa’s technology ecosystem.
Two Pathways to Success: Build Now or Work Now
Tech Wings Africa offers participants the choice between two specialized tracks depending on their career goals.
The Build Now Track targets tech innovators ready to launch their own startups. Participants begin with a one-week Launch Bootcamp that introduces essential soft skills and startup fundamentals. Over the following five months, they receive intensive venture support through dedicated coaching from StartHub Africa. Bi-weekly sessions help participants troubleshoot challenges, refine strategies and accelerate business growth. Access to mentors, including VC4A-affiliated investors and experienced founders, provides guidance in scaling ventures and securing funding. By the end of the program, participants are expected to have registered early-stage startups, generate initial revenue and contribute to job creation in Africa’s tech ecosystem.
The Future Founders Track, also called Work Now, is designed for tech professionals with entrepreneurial ambitions who need a structured path to develop, validate and plan their future venture ideas. This track starts with a one-month intensive program alongside a cohort of 30 peers, focusing on early-stage business development. Over the next five months, Tunga Academy provides one-on-one mentorship to help participants solidify their professional direction and business strategy. By the program’s conclusion, participants will have completed a comprehensive business model, conducted customer validation and created a detailed plan ready for execution.
Both tracks are tailored to deliver meaningful outcomes, whether participants aim to launch a startup immediately or prepare for a successful venture in the near future.
Building Skills, Experience and Networks for Lasting Impact
Tech Wings Africa is more than a training program. It is an investment in the future of East Africa’s technology sector. Participants gain access to a rich mentorship network through the VC4A Mentorship Marketplace and benefit from real-world project experience in African startups. The program also creates paid internships across the continent, generating more than 40 jobs and giving participants firsthand exposure to the workings of fast-growing companies.
Beyond technical and business skills, the program emphasizes collaboration, networking and long-term relationships. Participants leave with lifetime access to networks of founders, investors and peers, forming connections that can accelerate their careers or future business ventures. This community-oriented approach ensures that the benefits extend beyond the six-month program, contributing to the growth of a stronger, more interconnected tech ecosystem in Kenya, Uganda and beyond.
Who Should Apply
The program is open to motivated tech professionals based in Kenya and Uganda who are ready to commit to six months of intensive learning and mentorship. Ideal candidates have an entrepreneurial mindset, a willingness to solve real-world problems and thrive in collaborative environments. Whether aiming to launch a startup or gain industry experience, participants are expected to bring curiosity, commitment and the drive to turn ideas into impact.
Applications are currently open and are being reviewed on a rolling basis until November 30, 2025.
