Visa has launched applications for the fourth edition of its biannual Africa Fintech Accelerator program, aimed at providing startups with tools, industry connections and mentoring to develop their innovative solutions.
Launched in 2023 as part of Visa’s commitment to invest $1 billion in financial inclusion in Africa by 2027, the Africa Fintech Accelerator has already supported 64 startups across three cohorts, establishing 15 active partnerships.
Among the participants of the first cohort, four startups recently secured strategic funding from Visa, illustrating the significant impact of the program on the African fintech ecosystem.
The program aims to accelerate the growth of African fintech startups by offering them:
- Personalized mentoring: Access to industry experts to guide strategic development.
- Technological resources: Access to cutting-edge technologies to improve proposed solutions.
- Funding Opportunities: Opportunity to receive investment to support expansion.
- Networking: Connections with key industry players to facilitate partnerships and market access.
Interested start-ups must meet the following criteria:
- Development stage: From Seed phase to Series A, with at least one minimum viable product (MVP).
- Proposed solution: Address one of the program themes, such as payments integration, sustainable finance or SME empowerment.
- Market traction: Having a solution tested in the market with convincing results.
- Geographic Presence: Operating in Africa or demonstrating a commitment to expand there.
Applications are open until March 15, 2025.
Senegal, with its growing technology ecosystem, offers fertile ground for fintech startups. Senegalese companies have the opportunity to benefit from this program to accelerate their development, access essential resources and further integrate into the African financial market.
Visa’s Africa Fintech Accelerator represents a major opportunity for African startups eager to transform the continent’s financial landscape. By providing mentorship, technology resources and financing opportunities, Visa actively contributes to financial inclusion and economic growth in Africa.
