Applications are now open for Catapult Inclusion Africa 2026, offering African fintech startups a fully funded pathway to scale solutions that expand financial access across the continent.
- Applications are now open for Catapult Inclusion Africa 2026, offering African fintech startups a fully funded pathway to scale solutions...
- The 9th edition of the programme will run as a two-week bootcamp, with the first session scheduled from 28 June...
- The initiative selects 15 startups each year and offers them a tailored experience to strengthen their ability to create impact...
- Funding equips founders with insights into raising capital and managing financial resources effectively.
Keep reading for the full breakdown on 9th edition Catapult — everything you need to know is covered below.
The 9th edition of the programme will run as a two-week bootcamp, with the first session scheduled from 28 June to 03 July 2026 in the Ivory Coast and the second from 09 to 13 November 2026 in Luxembourg. Interested applicants have until 10 May 2026 to submit their entries.
Driving Financial Inclusion Through Innovation
Catapult Inclusion Africa 2026 brings together fintech innovators committed to improving financial inclusion through technology-driven solutions. The programme is organised in partnership with ADA – Appui au développement autonome, with support from the Luxembourg Directorate for Development Cooperation & Humanitarian Affairs.
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The initiative selects 15 startups each year and offers them a tailored experience to strengthen their ability to create impact in underserved communities.
Participants will receive full funding for travel and logistics and will meet influential players in the global inclusive finance ecosystem.
A Bootcamp Built on Impact, Scaling, and Funding
At the core of Catapult Inclusion Africa 2026 are three pillars: impact, scaling, and funding. These focus areas are structured to help startups refine their strategies and expand their reach.
The Impact pillar emphasises the development of solutions that deliver social and economic value through financial inclusion. Scaling focuses on business growth strategies such as partnerships, customer acquisition, and operational efficiency. Funding equips founders with insights into raising capital and managing financial resources effectively.
Through mentorship and expert-led sessions, participants will also deepen their understanding of regulatory frameworks and strengthen their strategic capabilities.
Who Should Apply?
Catapult Inclusion Africa 2026 is seeking startups operating in sectors such as payments, lending, insurtech, regtech, agritech, big data, and financial education. Other areas of interest include digital banking, wealthtech, cryptocurrency, and microfinance.
Eligible companies must be incorporated and can be at the prototype stage or already serving users. Startups at pre-seed, seed, or Series A stages are encouraged to apply, regardless of whether they have raised funding or generated revenue.
The programme is open to companies based in Africa, as well as those in Europe, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East that are building solutions for African markets.
A Track Record of Growth and Opportunity
Since its inception, Catapult Inclusion Africa has supported over 80 fintech startups, helping them grow and expand their impact. Alumni of the programme have collectively raised millions in funding and built strong connections across the global fintech ecosystem.
Reflecting on the experience, Thomas Carriez of Rubyx (Senegal) said:
“I would like to thank LHoFT for the opportunity to participate in the Catapult programme, which allowed me to meet many key players in the fintech ecosystem across Africa, exchange and share my experience with other startup founders, receive valuable advice for the next steps in my entrepreneurial journey, and ultimately gain visibility while expanding my network.”
Why Catapult Inclusion Africa 2026 Matters
For startups looking to scale quickly and connect with investors, Catapult Inclusion Africa 2026 offers a rare opportunity. The programme enables founders to expand their impact, accelerate growth, and build networks that open doors to funding and collaboration.
With all expenses covered and access to global expertise, the initiative remains a top destination for fintech innovators advancing financial inclusion in Africa.
Applications remain open until 10 May 2026. Interested applicants can apply here.