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Application Deadline: October 1st, 2025
Applications are now open for the SHIFT (Scaling Holistic Inclusion in Fintech Transformation) Program. SHIFT (Scaling Holistic Inclusion in Fintech Transformation) is a migration-focused support program for growth-stage fintechs in Sub-Saharan Africa, MENA, and Asia. We back ventures that already serve or are ready to pivot to serve women affected by migration and other vulnerable communities. Through results-based grants, tailored mentorship, investor connections, and global visibility, SHIFT helps fintechs strengthen their business, scale inclusive financial solutions, and drive lasting impact.
Requirements
SHIFT is open to growth-stage fintechs that meet the following criteria:
Sectors
Operates in fintech or embedded fintech (offering financial services such as credit, insurance, payments).
Stage
Growth-stage company with proven traction and revenue.
Fundraising Readiness
Has raised funding in the past 12 months or is actively planning to raise capital.
Business Model
For-profit and revenue-generating, with strong potential to scale.
Geographic Eligibility
Based in or operating in Sub-Saharan Africa, Middle East & North Africa (MENA), or Asia.
Impact Focus
Already serves women affected by migration or Willing to pivot/scale products and services tailored to the financial needs of women affected by migration (WAM)* * Women Affected by Migration (WAM) includes: Women who migrate internally or across borders Women left behind when a family member migrates (e.g., spouse working abroad) Women in migration-impacted communities, including high emigration areas or remittance-dependent regions.
Benefits
$10K Results-Based Grant
Flexible funding to implement solutions for women affected by migration.
Tailored Mentorship & Expert Support
Guidance from migration industry experts and peer learning to strengthen your business model, impact, and investment readiness.
Investor & Partner Access
Connect with 500+ investors and ecosystem partners interested in inclusive fintech solutions.
Access to the SIGMA platform
A key unique feature offering data-driven growth tracking, business model testing, and impact measurement tools.
Impact Measurement & Gender-Inclusive Practices
Capacity building to collect sex-disaggregated data, integrate gender KPIs, and design inclusive financial products.
Knowledge & Media Opportunities
Inclusion in case studies, podcasts, and docuseries to showcase impact.
Global Visibility
Exposure through Seedstars’ +1M network and partner channels.
Onsite Tech Ecosystem Opportunities
Invitations to key events in your region to network, showcase your venture, and explore partnerships.
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