In an initiative aimed at bolstering diversity within the fintech sector, Plug and Play has announced the launch of an Inclusive Fintech Accelerator in partnership with Visa. This new program seeks to empower a wide range of diverse founders, thereby promoting inclusivity within the financial technology landscape. The deadline for applications to join the accelerator is September 29, 2023.
"We are thrilled to partner with Visa to launch this internal Inclusive Fintech Accelerator," said Saeed Amidi, Founder and CEO of Plug and Play. Amidi emphasized the importance of combining resources and expertise to foster a successful environment for diverse entrepreneurs. "We believe diversity drives innovation, and this accelerator is a significant step towards creating a more inclusive ecosystem worldwide."
The accelerator is part of Plug and Play's broader DRIVE initiative, which stands for Diversity, Respect, Inclusion, Visibility, and Equity. This initiative aims to create better funding access for diverse founders and educate the wider ecosystem on the critical importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
"By uplifting diverse founders, the communities we live and work in can better thrive," added Marie Elise Droga, SVP Head of Global Fintech Partnerships at Visa. This statement underlines Visa's commitment to leveraging diverse perspectives to enhance innovation and drive progress in the tech industry.
The Inclusive Fintech Accelerator will offer selected founders a variety of resources, including strategic business guidance, access to Visa's products and insights, and opportunities for mentorship and networking within Plug and Play's vast ecosystem of industry leaders and specialists.
The program is open to founders from various underrepresented groups including women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals, ensuring a wide range of voices and perspectives are included in the fintech conversation. Interested applicants can find more details about eligibility and the application process on Plug and Play's official website.
Scheduled to run for eight months, the accelerator will culminate in June 2024 during Plug and Play's bi-annual summit in Silicon Valley, providing participants with a unique platform to showcase their innovations and connect with potential investors and partners.
With the launch of this program, Plug and Play and Visa aim to dismantle barriers faced by minority founders, thus fostering a more diverse and equitable fintech landscape. Both organizations are committed to creating a supportive framework where diverse talents can thrive and contribute to the future of finance.
The Inclusive Fintech Accelerator represents a pivotal step toward building a more representative and inclusive future in the tech industry. As the program unfolds, it’s clear that initiatives like this can have a lasting impact on the founder landscape and drive innovation that reflects a broader array of experiences and ideas.