Visa opens applications for inclusive fintech accelerator aimed at diverse founders
Visa, a global leader in digital payments, in partnership with Plug and Play, the world's largest innovation platform, is excited to announce the call for applications for the second cohort of the Visa Inclusive Fintech Accelerator.
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The Visa Inclusive Fintech Accelerator is designed to accelerate the growth of fintech startups led by diverse founders. Building on the success of the inaugural cohort, which featured 21 diverse founders advancing groundbreaking fintech solutions, the Visa Inclusive Fintech Accelerator is set to continue its mission of supporting diverse innovators in the financial technology sector.
For the first cohort, Visa and Plug and Play selected dynamic startups that offered unique perspectives and innovative solutions, achieving notable progress in areas such as investment, customer onboarding, and partnerships with large enterprise customers.
For the second cohort, Visa and Plug and Play are seeking startups that are redefining financial technology and are led by a founder who identifies as underrepresented and/or is committed to serving underserved segments in North America and/or has demonstrated passion and commitment to inclusion and/or has demonstrated resilience in their paths in the fintech space. Detailed information regarding the application process, eligibility criteria, and program specifics will be available on the Plug and Play DRIVE website.
"We introduced the Visa Inclusive Fintech Accelerator to drive greater innovation and progress by championing diversity," said Vanessa Colella, Global Head of Innovation & Digital Partnerships, Visa. "We are so proud of our first cohort and all they accomplished and are thrilled to begin our search for the program's second cohort to uplift more diverse fintech founders and their brilliant ideas."
Startups must have a minimum viable product (MVP) to apply and should be based in and conducting business within the United States or Canada. Selected startups will gain exclusive access to Visa's network and resources, receive mentorship from industry leaders, and have opportunities for pilot projects and strategic partnerships with Visa. Eligible startups may apply here.
The accelerator program will span six months and will culminate with a showcase at Plug and Play's bi-annual summit in Silicon Valley in June 2025.