Catapult Inclusion Africa 2026: Apply Now for Fintech Startup Acceleration
Are you a fintech startup founder working to bring financial services to underserved communities in Africa? The Catapult Inclusion Africa 2026 program offers a chance to grow your business with expert support and global connections. This ninth edition targets companies focused on financial inclusion, and applications close soon on May 10, 2026.
Program Overview
Catapult Inclusion Africa 2026 helps fintech startups speed up their growth and make a bigger impact in local communities. It receives support from Luxembourg’s Directorate for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Action. Partners include FIT and ADA, which connect participants to key players in inclusive finance across Africa and worldwide.
The program runs for two weeks in two locations. Week 1 happens in Côte d’Ivoire from June 29 to July 3, 2026. Week 2 takes place in Luxembourg from November 9 to 13, 2026. Startups get hands-on help to improve their products and reach more unbanked people.
Key Benefits
Selected companies enjoy full support during the program. The LHoFT covers up to €2,000 (including VAT) for a round-trip economy class ticket to Côte d’Ivoire for the first week. The same amount applies for the trip to Luxembourg in the second week. A second team member can join but must pay their own way.
Participants stay in a hotel picked by the LHoFT for the whole program. Breakfast and lunch come with the package. Founders also network with top experts and gain tools to scale their fintech solutions.
Who Can Apply
Your business must work in financial inclusion for underserved or unbanked groups in Africa. This covers areas like AgriTech, AI and Big Data, banking, blockchain, credit services, cryptocurrencies, cybersecurity, digital services, fund management, green finance, InsurTech, microfinance, mobile payments, remittances, RegTech, savings, and wealth tech.
Companies need at least a minimum viable product (MVP) ready to show. Most are at pre-seed to Series A funding stage. You must share details on your project, company health, founders, and shareholders for a background check. A founding member, often the CEO, has to attend both weeks. Agree to share performance data for three years after the program. All participants need to speak French fluently.
Application Process
Apply online through the official form. Provide all required info to prove your fit. The deadline is May 10, 2026, so act fast.
For full details, check the program page at Catapult Inclusion Africa. This is your shot to join a top accelerator and boost financial access across Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Catapult Inclusion Africa 2026 program?
It is a two-week accelerator for fintech startups focused on financial inclusion in Africa, with sessions in Côte d’Ivoire and Luxembourg, offering expert support and networking.
When is the application deadline?
Applications close on May 10, 2026, so submit yours soon through the official online form.
Who can apply to the program?
Fintech companies targeting underserved or unbanked groups in Africa with an MVP, at pre-seed to Series A stage, and fluent French-speaking founders who can attend both weeks.
What benefits do selected startups receive?
Full support including up to €2,000 for flights, hotel stays, meals, and networking with experts to scale their solutions.
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