Payments tech company Visa has opened
applications for startups to participate in the first cohort of the Visa Africa
Fintech Accelerator program. The program is focused on startups operating in
Africa and will run over 12 weeks twice a year with up to 20 startups per
cohort.
Startups up to Series A stage are encouraged to apply through
the Visa website to stand a chance to gain unparalleled expertise, valuable
industry connections, cutting-edge technology, and potential investment
funding.
In line with Visa's pledge to invest $1 billion in
Africa by 2027, the accelerator aims to strengthen Africa's payment ecosystem
through innovations and technologies, focusing on digitizing economies,
upskilling talent, and building capacity.
Plug and Play, the world’s leading innovation platform will
serve as the program partner for the Visa Africa Accelerator. Throughout the
12-week program, Plug and Play will deliver valuable content, facilitate access
to mentors, arrange one-on-one coaching sessions, and connect startups with a
global and regional network of investors.
The Visa Fintech Accelerator is looking for disruptive
startups that operate and generate revenue within the African continent.
''Through the Visa
Africa Fintech Accelerator, Visa is committed to driving financial innovation,
fostering entrepreneurship, and supporting the growth of Fintech ecosystems
across Africa. This accelerator represents a unique opportunity for Fintech
startups to access invaluable resources, mentorship, and potential investment
opportunities.” Otto
Williams, Senior Vice President, Head of Product, Partnerships and Digital
Solutions for Visa CEMEA said.”