Cardtonic, a leading African fintech platform known for virtual dollar cards, bill payments, and digital exchange services, has officially opened applications for Upskill 4.0. Now in its fourth year, the annual initiative is expanding beyond Nigeria to include young tech talent in Ghana for the first time, introducing a dual-track framework that combines hardware grants with fully funded education.
Since its inception in 2022, Cardtonic’s Upskill initiative has awarded a cumulative 55 MacBooks to tech professionals across various tracks:
- Upskill 1.0 (2022): Awarded 15 MacBooks to emerging tech talent.
- Upskill 2.0 (2024): Scaled up to 20 M3 MacBooks alongside cash prizes for 13 runners-up.
- Upskill 3.0 (2025): Provided 20 M4 Pro MacBooks and financial grants to 15 runners-up.
With Upskill 4.0 now open, Cardtonic is taking its most comprehensive approach yet addressing both the lack of physical tools and the high cost of structured technical education.
Program Structure & Offerings
Upskill 4.0 operates across two distinct, concurrent tracks designed for different stages of a tech career:
1. MacBook Track (Hardware Grant)
Tailored for experienced professionals with at least three years of verifiable experience across key digital disciplines. Cardtonic will award 25 M5 MacBook Pros across six core tracks:
- Software Engineering
- Product Design
- Product Management
- Content Creation
- Data Science & AI Engineering
- Cybersecurity
2. Scholarship Track (Cardtonic Scholarship Fund 2026)
Focused on early-career talent and beginners, this track funds 20 diploma scholarships in partnership with AltSchool Africa. To help scholars cover living expenses and focus fully on their studies, each recipient will also receive a ₦250,000 stipend.
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Eligible diploma fields include:
- Software Engineering
- Data Analysis
- Product Management
- Design
- Cybersecurity
Eligibility Criteria
To maintain a merit-based selection process, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of Nigeria or Ghana.
- Age: Must be under 30 years old by the application closing date.
- Track Requirements:
- MacBook Track: Requires a minimum of three years of verifiable experience and a solid portfolio of past projects.
- Scholarship Track: Requires proof of foundational knowledge, completed coursework, or passion for the field.
Note: Candidates may only apply to one track.
How to Apply
Interested candidates in Nigeria and Ghana can review the full requirements and submit their applications through the official Cardtonic Upskill Website before the August 28 deadline.
Disclaimer
Edfrica shares opportunities for informational purposes only. Results and funding outcomes are not guaranteed.
