Qualcomm launches AI program for startups in Mexico and Brazil

Qualcomm Technologies has introduced the Qualcomm AI program for Innovators, a new initiative designed to support professional developers and startups in Latin America. The program provides exclusive access to resources, mentoring, and training to help participants create innovative AI applications in the mobile, computing, and IoT sectors.

Participants will be able to leverage the Qualcomm AI Hub to optimize, validate, and deploy their own AI models on devices hosted on the platform. They may also work with Qualcomm’s collection of cutting-edge machine learning models, which are optimized for performance and ready for on-device implementation. 

Two-phase structure and application deadline

Applications are open until August 8 at 11:59 PM. The program includes two phases:

• Phase 1: Open to professional developers and startups based in Brazil and Mexico, focusing on developing and optimizing edge AI models using the Qualcomm AI Hub.
• Phase 2 (August 2025 – January 2026): Open to pre-selected startups, also based in Brazil and Mexico, and aimed at supporting end-to-end use case development using Qualcomm-provided hardware platforms.

Participants will benefit from a range of incentives and online training opportunities. Startups selected for Phase 2 will receive:

• Six months of dedicated mentoring
• Access to Qualcomm Technologies hardware or development kits
• A participation grant of up to $5,000
• Eligibility for an additional patent support incentive of up to $5,000

Additionally, selected startups will have the opportunity to present their innovations during a high-profile virtual Demo Day between January and February 2026. The event will gather industry leaders, investors, and potential partners.

Supporting regional innovation

“Qualcomm values innovation, and programs like this align with our commitment to tech development in Brazil and Mexico,” said Luiz Tonisi, President of Qualcomm Latin America. “We are excited to contribute to the growth of AI in the region, adding value to participants.”

“From Brazil to Mexico, we are witnessing a new wave of tech pioneers shaping South America’s future,” said Sudeepto Roy, VP of Engineering at Qualcomm Incorporated. “Qualcomm is proud to support this movement by bringing global expertise, 5G connectivity, low-power computing, cutting-edge edge AI, and IP protection to help startups turn bold ideas into lasting regional impact.”

Interested participants can create an account on the Qualcomm AI Hub and submit their proposals through the official website before the deadline. Submissions will be evaluated based on the innovation, regional relevance, and social impact of the proposed solutions. More information, including the official rules and eligibility requirements, is available at their website.