Mastercard Start Path Global Program is Mastercard’s worldwide award-winning program for innovative later stage startups from across the globe. It enables later-stage tech startups to rapidly scale through unparalleled access to Mastercard’s technology, solutions expertise and partners around the world.
Since 2014 they have been working with an ever-growing portfolio of startups with unique solutions across fintech and commerce. Start Path Global is based on what has worked best for their portfolio of startups: more flexibility, more customization, and no distractions from your current business.
About Mastercard Foundation
The Mastercard Foundation seeks a world where everyone has the opportunity to learn and prosper. All people, no matter where their starting point in life, should have an equal chance to succeed. We believe that with access to education, financial services, and skills training, people can have that chance. Our focus is helping economically disadvantaged young people in Africa to find opportunities to move themselves, their families, and their communities out of poverty to a better life.
- Type of Scholarship: Entrepreneurs
- Organization: Mastercard Foundation
- Country to study: Ireland
- Gender: Men and Women
Aim and Benefits of Mastercard Start Path Global Program
- Six months virtual program tailored to the individual needs of your company
- No equity is taken up front (but an option to participate in your next round)
- Immediate access to 60+ Mastercard experts
- Connections to potential customers – global corporate brands spanning banking, retail, tech and telecoms
- Funds provided so that you have no out of pocket expenses
- Receive support from a dedicated sponsor – a Mastercard insider – who creates a pipeline that is unique and relevant to each startup, and acts as a sounding board and a relationship broker.
Requirements for Mastercard Start Path Global Program Qualification
- Solution – Demonstrated commercial traction, clear product differentiation and competitive advantage.
- Market – Solving real pain points for your customers, targeting a sizable market.
- Team – Strong founder team with key roles established, experienced entrepreneurs and/or track record of relevant industry expertise.
- Funding – Investment raised (seed, Series A, or later) with at least 6-12 months runway, plans to raise next institutional round in the next 18th months.
- Attitude – Global mentality, open to opportunity and mentoring
How to Apply
Interested and qualified? Go to Mastercard Foundation on www.f6s.com to apply
- Apply online
- Mastercard cross-business evaluation
- Invited to pitch
- Program kick off with 8-10 startups
- Six-month engagement to support, introduce and collaborate
For more details, visit Mastercard website
