Visa, the global payment card network, has announced the launch of its 2025 Accelerator Program, aimed at fostering innovation and growth among African startups in the FinTech sector.

Applications for the program are now open, inviting startups to participate in a three-month initiative designed to provide mentorship, technological resources, and funding opportunities.

According to Visa, the Accelerator Program is tailored to connect Africa’s most promising entrepreneurs with industry experts, cutting-edge tools, and strategic partnerships. The company highlights that this initiative offers a platform for startups to scale their operations, refine their products, and establish a strong presence in the competitive FinTech landscape.

This initiative connects startups with seasoned mentors, cutting-edge technology, and substantial funding opportunities, creating a platform for innovation and growth in the FinTech landscape.

Startups selected for the program are expected to benefit from tailored mentorship, strategic guidance, and exclusive resources to propel their ventures forward.

Participants are expected to gain access to over USD 200 K worth of product perks and discounts from more than 100 vendors, including credits for Amazon Web Services (AWS). Additionally, they will engage in FinTech-specific training modules, covering topics such as product design, marketing, finance, and sales. They would also gain entry to one-on-one mentoring sessions with industry experts and founders, both from Africa and globally, aiming to address unique challenges faced by startups.

Visa has also included exclusive training modules tailored to the payments and FinTech sectors, offering participants an in-depth understanding of industry best practices. Startups will have the chance to experiment with Visa’s services through access to the company’s developer portal.

The program culminates with a Demo Day, where startups can showcase their solutions to a panel of potential investors, including Visa, Plug and Play, and a broader venture capital network. Participants may also forge strategic partnerships with industry leaders, gaining opportunities to scale their operations through collaboration.

Eligibility Criteria

The program targets startups at the seed to Series A stages, with a minimum viable product (MVP) already developed. Ideal candidates will have a market-ready solution that aligns with one of the program’s themes, a demonstrated commitment to growth in Africa, and some level of market traction.

Applications will go through a two-stage screening process. The initial review will assess alignment with the program’s objectives, market traction, and founding team credentials. Shortlisted startups will then participate in virtual interviews, with finalists being notified before the program begins.

The application deadline is March 15, 2025.

For more details or to apply, visit the Visa Accelerator Program website.