Swiss fintech accelerator Fintech Fusion is calling for applications for its 12 month incubator programme, naming African mobile startups as a key interest.
According to Fintech Fusion, the digitisation of the financial services sector is shaking up the entire industry, removing barriers to entry and thus creating an extremely competitive market sector. As a result, the incubator says financial services companies need to innovate to succeed.
“Financial services firms cannot afford to be complacent. Innovation is no longer about gaining market share. Innovation is now table stakes; the minimum to stay in the game. Financial firms need to get innovating, and fast!” Fintech Fusion said.
Based on this belief, the organisation has opened applications for a one-year accelerator, aiming to support innovative startups capable of creating a new fintech ecosystem.
Applications are invited from all fintech startups, although particular areas of interest include cyber security, data privacy, blockchain, social analytics, artificial intelligence, mobile, peer-to-peer platforms, and payments.
Fintech Fusion told Disrupt Africa the incubator considers Africa to be “the main land of innovation in mobile payments”, and as such encourages applications from African mobile fintech startups.
While the incubator does not offer funding, it will assist startups in fundraising throughout the programme; which involves a 12 month programme of mentoring and access to networks and corporate partners.
Applications can be made online until July 15, although startups are encouraged to submit their applications before the early deadline of June 15.
