FinWise Acceleration Program 2025 Acceleration Program by EDI & UNCDF For Ethiopian startups

Job Description

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The FinWise Acceleration Program 2025 is a specialized fintech accelerator designed to advance last-mile digital financial inclusion in Ethiopia. Launched by the Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI) in partnership with UNCDF, the program supports fintech startups building scalable solutions that improve access to financial services, strengthen Cash-In/Cash-Out (CICO) networks, and empower underserved communities.

FinWise focuses on closing digital finance gaps by equipping innovators with the technical support, mentorship, ecosystem access, and business development tools needed to scale impactful financial solutions across Ethiopia.

Organisers:
Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI)
United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF)

Program Type: Fintech Accelerator
Location: Ethiopia (Bootcamp in Addis Ababa)
Target Stage: Early-stage & growth-ready startups
Application Deadline: December 30, 2025

Program Focus Areas

The program prioritizes fintech solutions that:

• Strengthen Cash-In/Cash-Out (CICO) agent networks
• Improve access to digital financial services in rural, peri-urban, and underserved communities
• Promote financial inclusion for women, youth, and unbanked populations
• Support last-mile service delivery through technology-driven models

What Selected Startups Will Receive

15-Day Intensive Bootcamp (Addis Ababa)
A hands-on, in-person training covering fintech business models, product development, regulatory readiness, risk management, and strategies for scaling last-mile financial solutions in Ethiopia.

Expert Mentorship
Direct guidance from fintech professionals, digital financial services (DFS) experts, and experienced entrepreneurs with deep knowledge of the Ethiopian ecosystem.

Business Development Support
Tailored advisory services to refine business models, strengthen operations, and improve investor readiness.

Seed Funding Pathways
While funding is not guaranteed, high-performing startups gain access to investor networks, funding opportunities, and financial partners.

Market & Ecosystem Access
Connections to financial institutions, regulators, DFS stakeholders, and CICO operators to support pilot deployments and real-world scaling.

Who Should Apply

The program is open to Ethiopian fintech startups that:

• Are early-stage or growth-oriented and operating anywhere in Ethiopia
• Have a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or functional prototype
• Offer solutions that enhance last-mile financial access or CICO networks
• Serve or plan to serve women, youth, rural, or underserved populations
• Can fully participate in the 15-day in-person bootcamp in Addis Ababa

Solutions may include (but are not limited to):

• Mobile payments and digital wallets
• Agent network support platforms
• Digital savings and credit solutions
• Fintech tools for unbanked or underbanked communities

Why This Program Matters

Digital financial inclusion remains a critical driver of economic development in Ethiopia. Many communities still face barriers due to limited infrastructure, weak agent networks, and low digital access. FinWise supports innovators addressing these challenges with practical, scalable, and inclusive fintech solutions—helping expand financial access and economic opportunity nationwide.

All applications must be submitted on or before December 30, 2025.