Are you a fintech innovator building inclusive financial solutions in Africa? Apply now for the 2026 Visa Accelerator Program by 15 August 2025.
Visa is now accepting applications for the 2026 Visa Accelerator Program, a high-impact initiative designed to support the growth of early-stage fintech startups across Africa that are building solutions for the future of digital finance.
Now entering its third year, the program has supported over 60 startups from more than 25 countries through a combination of business development training, mentorship, and investor access. Selected enterprises gain direct exposure to Visa’s global network and expertise, unlocking new opportunities to scale and strengthen their value proposition.
The Visa Accelerator Program is designed for fintech startups that:
- Are legally registered in Africa or planning to expand into the continent
- Operate at the Seed to Series A stage
- Have a minimum viable product (MVP) and some market traction
- Are led by a strong team with demonstrated commitment to innovation in digital finance
The 2026 program will focus on startups that contribute to advancing Africa’s digital economy through areas including new payment flows, embedded finance, SME enablement, merchant solutions, payment infrastructure, open banking, and future-of-finance technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain, and central bank digital currencies. Inclusive and sustainable fintech innovation is a cross-cutting priority.
Up to 15–20 startups will be selected to participate in a three-month hybrid accelerator consisting of a comprehensive onboarding and orientation week, followed by ten thematic learning weeks covering product development, technology, marketing, sales, finance, and investor readiness. Participants will receive tailored one-on-one mentorship from Visa executives and industry leaders, hands-on technical support, and access to Visa Developer tools and APIs. The program will culminate in an in-person Demo Day, where participants will pitch their solutions to a curated audience of investors, corporate partners, and key stakeholders in the fintech ecosystem.
In addition, three startups from each cohort will be selected for follow-up investment opportunities and strategic partnership support with Visa and its venture capital partners.
Participants will also benefit from a perks package valued at over US$200,000, which includes access to essential software tools, infrastructure credits, and professional services. Visa will cover travel and accommodation expenses for one founder to attend Demo Day. While the program is free of charge, selected startups are expected to manage their visa applications and related travel documentation. The primary language of instruction throughout the program is English.