Visa Inclusive Fintech Accelerator

The Visa Inclusive Fintech Accelerator is a corporate venture capital program established by Visa in partnership with Plug and Play Tech Center. It aims to support and scale fintech startups that promote financial inclusion, focusing on diverse founders and innovative solutions in the financial technology sector. The program offers selected startups access to Visa's network, resources, mentorship from industry leaders, and opportunities for pilot projects and strategic partnerships. The accelerator program spans six months and culminates with a showcase at Plug and Play's bi-annual summit in Silicon Valley. Startups must have a minimum viable product and be based in and conducting business within the United States or Canada to apply. The program seeks 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. The accelerator program is designed to drive greater innovation and progress by championing diversity and supporting diverse fintech founders and their innovative ideas.

The first cohort of the Visa Inclusive Fintech Accelerator was announced in January 2024, selecting 21 diverse startups to participate in the program. These startups represent a variety of fintech solutions spanning across money movement, consumer banking and lending, social and creators, and more. The cohort was chosen through a rigorous selection process considering factors such as market potential, technological innovation, and the ability to drive a positive impact in the fintech ecosystem. Throughout the accelerator program, each startup receives a customized curriculum and has the opportunity to collaborate with industry experts, mentors, and potential investors. The program culminates in a showcase at Plug and Play's Silicon Valley Summit in June 2024.

The Visa Inclusive Fintech Accelerator is part of Visa's broader commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in the fintech sector. By providing resources, mentorship, and strategic partnerships, the program aims to empower diverse founders and promote financial inclusion through innovative fintech solutions. The accelerator program continues to seek startups that align with its mission to drive innovation and progress by supporting diverse fintech founders and their groundbreaking ideas.