Start Path Emerging Fintech Program 2026 Grant

About this grant

Start Path is a Mastercard programme for fintech startups in emerging and consumer technology. It aims to accelerate innovative consumer solutions powered by emerging technologies by connecting startups with Mastercard's global network, partners and customers. The page describes support including a rapid path to scale through Mastercard's network, partnerships and fintech solutions, dedicated support from a programme team that builds a pipeline suited to each company, access to thousands of Mastercard customers and partners, connection with Mastercard colleagues through media, events and demo days, and a dedicated fund that may invest in startups when a strategic fit is identified. The stated areas of focus are sustainability, loyalty and rewards, digital payments innovation, consumer products and engagement, and financial inclusion. The programme is presented as a route to global scale and accelerated expansion rather than as a cash grant. The page does not state a funding amount. The application process has four steps: submit an application online, Mastercard evaluates the application, potential candidates share more with relevant product teams, and selected startups take part in a virtual engagement programme. The page features portfolio companies Moneythor, Mo Technologies and Episode Six as examples of startups in the programme.

Eligibility

Applicants must be fintech or technology startups with a solution that is unique and proven, shows clear market differentiation and has reference customers. The solution must align with Mastercard's strategy and business. The startup must have raised investment at Seed, Series A or later, with its product live in market and generating revenue. Founders and teams should have strong, relevant backgrounds and be ready to scale. The page does not state geographic restrictions or prior-recipient rules.

How it's scored

Mastercard evaluates submitted applications against four stated criteria: the solution (unique and proven, with clear market differentiation and reference customers), strategic fit (alignment with Mastercard's strategy and business), stage (funding raised at Seed, Series A or later, with the product live and generating revenue), and team (strong, relevant backgrounds and readiness to scale). The page gives no weightings and does not describe panel composition.

Key requirements

• ✓Seed stage or Series A+ with funding raised and product live in market generating revenue
• ✓Demonstrated product-market fit in fintech, payments, commerce, sustainability, banking, or financial inclusion
• ✓Strategic alignment with Mastercard's business priorities and mission
• ✓Experienced, diverse founding team with relevant expertise
• ✓Incorporated entity with paying users or incorporated users

Recent past awardees

Knowing who's won the last rounds tells you whether you're in the strike zone.

• Moneythor
• Mo Technologies
• Episode Six

Frequently asked questions

When is the Start Path Emerging Fintech Program deadline?

Applications close 31 Dec 2026.

Who can apply for Start Path Emerging Fintech Program?

Eligibility covers organisations in GLOBAL; startup. See the eligibility criteria above for the full conditions.

Relevant sectors

About this sector

Climate fintech funding backs financial products and infrastructure that move capital to climate solutions, from green lending platforms to risk and disclosure tools. Support comes from innovation programmes, development finance and investors. Applicants are usually asked about regulatory approval, data sources and how the product reaches its users.