Applications are now open for the Catapult: Inclusion Africa 2026, Edition 9. This program helps fintech startups grow and reach more people in Africa who lack access to financial services. Backed by Luxembourg’s Directorate for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Action, it runs in two parts: one week in Côte d’Ivoire and another in Luxembourg.
Program Details
The ninth edition of Catapult: Inclusion Africa takes place over two weeks. Week 1 happens in Côte d’Ivoire from June 29 to July 3, 2026. Week 2 is in Luxembourg from November 9 to 13, 2026.
It partners with FIT and ADA to connect startups with key players in inclusive finance. The goal is to speed up startup growth and boost their local impact. Startups get hands-on support to improve their work.
Key Benefits
Organizers cover many costs to make it easy for participants. The LHoFT pays up to €2,000 (including VAT) for one person’s round-trip economy class ticket to Côte d’Ivoire for Week 1. The same covers the trip to Luxembourg for Week 2. A second team member can join but pays their own way.
Teams stay in a hotel picked by the LHoFT during the program. Breakfast and lunch are provided each day. This setup lets founders focus on learning and networking.
Who Can Apply
Startups must work on financial inclusion for underserved or unbanked people in Africa. They offer products like financial services that help these groups. Examples include AgriTech, AI and Big Data, banking apps, blockchain, credit services, cryptocurrencies, cybersecurity, digital payments, insurtech, microfinance, mobile money, remittances, and more.
Companies need at least one working minimum viable product (MVP). They should be at pre-seed to Series A funding stage. Organizers check company details, founder backgrounds, and project strength to avoid risks.
A founder, often the CEO, must attend both weeks. Teams agree to share performance data for three years after the program. All participants need to speak French fluently.
How to Apply
The deadline is May 10, 2026. Submit your application online through the official form: apply here.
For full details, check the program page: Catapult: Inclusion Africa. Act fast to join this chance to grow your fintech and meet global leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Catapult: Inclusion Africa 2026 program?
It is a two-week program that helps fintech startups grow and reach unbanked people in Africa, with one week in Côte d’Ivoire and one in Luxembourg.
When does the program take place?
Week 1 is from June 29 to July 3, 2026, in Côte d’Ivoire, and Week 2 is from November 9 to 13, 2026, in Luxembourg.
Who can apply for the program?
African fintech startups focused on financial inclusion for underserved people, with a working MVP, at pre-seed to Series A stage, and fluent French speakers.
How do I apply and what is the deadline?
Submit your application online via the official form by May 10, 2026; check the program page for full details.
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