AI startups can receive up to US$10,000 from Qualcomm; applications for the Innovation Program are now open.
Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. has announced the opening of applications for the AI Program for Innovators (AIPI) in Latin America, an acceleration program aimed at technology startups in Brazil and Mexico. The initiative aims to empower developers and companies to design and implement cutting-edge solutions with Artificial Intelligence (AI) embedded in devices, promoting innovation and social impact in strategic sectors such as consumer electronics, healthcare, smart industry, smart cities, agriculture, and education.
The program is designed to support startups in developing and commercializing complete AI solutions using the renowned Qualcomm Dragonwing™ and Snapdragon® platforms. Selected teams will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of cutting-edge AI use cases with the new development boards. Arduino® UNO™ Q and Arduino VENTUNO™ Q, which offer Linux compatibility, real-time control, and optimized AI inference.
To accelerate the development cycle, participants will have access to a robust ecosystem of tools, including the Qualcomm® AI Hub — with its ever-growing catalog of pre-optimized AI models —, the platform Edge Impulse for creating tinyML models, the Arduino® Project Hub and selected repositories in GitHub®.
“We are excited to launch another edition of QAIPI in Latin America and continue investing in the immense innovative potential of Brazil and Mexico,” he stated. Luiz Tonisi, VP and president of Qualcomm for Latin America. “By offering access to our cutting-edge technologies, expert guidance, and strategic resources, our goal is to accelerate the development of the next generation of AI solutions that will transform industries and generate a positive and lasting impact on society.”
Benefits and structure of the program
Up to 10 cutting-edge AI startups will be selected to participate in the program, which offers a comprehensive benefits package:
| Category | Details |
| Exclusive mentoring | Personalized guidance from Qualcomm experts in the areas of technology, business, and intellectual property. |
| Support for development | Participants will have access to Qualcomm-powered hardware and development kits for product development, subject to availability and the scope of the program. |
| Training | Online training courses on business, marketing, and fundraising, as well as in-depth technical sessions on IoT, 5G/6G, XR, and Qualcomm's AI platforms. |
| Financial incentives | A financial incentive of up to US$$ 5,000 for startups that meet the program requirements, in addition to an incentive of up to US$$ 5,000 for registering utility patents. |
| Visibility and networking | A presentation at a Demo Day for industry leaders, systems integrators, and investors, as well as inclusion in Qualcomm's startup directory. |
Main programming
- Registration period: February 25 to April 24, 2026
- Startup selection: May 2026
- Development phase: May to October 2026
- Demonstration Day and Closing Ceremony: November 2026
How to participate
Startups incorporated and registered in Mexico or Brazil are invited to apply, provided they meet the eligibility requirements set forth in the program terms.
Applications are now open and can be submitted until April 24, 2026, via the following link: Sign up now.
About Qualcomm
Qualcomm relentlessly innovates to bring intelligent computing everywhere, helping the world address some of its most significant challenges. Building on our 40 years of technological leadership in creating groundbreaking innovations, we offer a broad portfolio of solutions powered by our cutting-edge AI, high-performance, low-power computing, and unparalleled connectivity. Our Snapdragon® platforms deliver extraordinary consumer experiences, and our Qualcomm Dragonwing™ products empower businesses and industries to reach new heights. Together with our ecosystem partners, we enable next-generation digital transformation to enrich lives, improve businesses, and drive societal progress. At Qualcomm, we are designing human progress. Qualcomm Incorporated includes our licensing business, QTL, and the vast majority of our patent portfolio.
Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., a subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated, operates, together with its subsidiaries, virtually all of our engineering and research and development functions, as well as virtually all of our product and service businesses, including our QCT semiconductor business. Products bearing the Snapdragon and Qualcomm brands are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Qualcomm patents are licensed by Qualcomm Incorporated.
Products bearing the Snapdragon and Qualcomm marks are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Snapdragon and Snapdragon Ride are trademarks or registered trademarks of Qualcomm Incorporated. Arduino is a registered trademark of Arduino SA. GitHub is a registered trademark of GitHub, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Participation in the program and any associated incentives are subject to applicable terms and conditions, eligibility requirements, and compliance with applicable laws. Qualcomm reserves the right to modify or discontinue the program at any time.
