Village Capital has partnered the MasterCard Foundation and the DOEN Foundation to run a three-month programme supporting early-stage entrepreneurs innovating in fintech to increase financial health and improve livelihoods for low-income populations.
Village Capital is recruiting entrepreneurs from across Sub-Saharan Africa for the business development programme, which will take place in Nairobi, Lagos and Accra.
At the end of the programme, two early-stage businesses will be selected by the other entrepreneurs in the cohort to win a total of US$100,000 in funding.
The programme is looking for entrepreneurs innovating in financial technology, such as by increasing the access, relevance, and affordability of savings, credit, payments, and insurance products through leveraging data analytics, blockchain technology, and digital identity verification.
It is also interested in startups that are increasing efficiency in supply chains and distribution channels, and enhancing livelihoods of low-income small business owners through tools for things like value-chain tracking, smart logistics and business insurance.
Village Capital will provide selected entrepreneurs with business development training to develop their financials, pitch, sales pipeline, and other aspects, while entrepreneurs will also have one-on-one time with mentors, industry experts, investors, top local business leaders, and potential customers.
Applications close on September 20.
