MasterCard is inviting startups to apply for its newly-launched Start Path Global, a six-month partnership program that helps startups across the world rapidly scale their business, including countries in Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America.
The program builds on the initial Start Path’s efforts over the past 18 months, having provided a variety of operational support, partnership, or investment for over 40 startups developing the next generation of commerce solutions, including Toronto-based Nymi.
With Start Path Global, there is no equity taken, and startups aren’t required to relocate, receiving access to over 20 global Start Path Partners.
With Start Path Global, startups aren’t required to relocate, there is no equity taken, and the program provides access to over 60 MasterCard experts and opportunities for pilots with MasterCard or MasterCard customers. Startups are also connected to Start Path Partners, a group of more than 20 companies in banking, retail, and technology, including Bank of Montreal and Samsung Card.
“Start Path thoughtfully connects the right partners with the right startups to build the future of commerce together,” said Stephane Wyper, global lead of MasterCard Start Path. “And now with our global expansion we will be able to target a broader range of startups and help them achieve success.”
Start Path is currently recruiting a new class of non-US based startups for its program, requiring an in-market solution, an experienced team, sizeable market opportunities in the retail and FinTech space, and a seed or Series A investment recently secured. Applications are open until September 18.