FinTech Accelerator now accepting applications to ‘disrupt’ the financial tech sector
by February 1, 2016 11:10 am 223 views
The Global FinTech Accelerator is now accepting applications through March 31, and the entrepreneur accelerator will be held for 15 weeks between May 13 and August 27, 2016.
The Global FinTech Accelerator will accept 10 startups looking to make an impact on the financial tech industry. The accelerator is hosted by the The Venture Center and supported by Jacksonville, Fla.-based by FIS, a financial services technology company.
“Startups innovating in analytics, cognitive computing, cybersecurity, bank back office, investment management, wearables, wallets (among others) should apply for this highly competitive and unique program. There exists no other place on earth where a founding team can gain unparalleled access to leaders within the largest financial software company in the world,” Lee Watson, president & CEO of The Venture Center, explained in a press release.
According to information about the event, the financial tech industries already have a blueprint for success in central Arkansas with companies such as ABC Financial, Arkansas Systems (now Euronet Worldwide), Systematics (now FIS), Stephens Inc., Mainstream Technologies, and Acxiom.
The accelerator will establish a new fund directed by The Venture Center providing an initial investment of $50,000. Further, accelerator companies can pitch for an additional investment at the end of the program.
“FIS has a strong track record in innovation that allows our clients to achieve their objectives, while empowering them with the tools necessary to stay competitive in the rapidly-changing financial technology industry,” said Rob Lee, chief product officer, Global Banking and Payments, FIS. “This collaboration with The Venture Center is an excellent opportunity to promote innovation earlier in the life cycle. Little Rock is a natural fit for this initiative given FIS’ history and large employee presence in the market.”
The press release also states, “All entrepreneurs who are poised to disrupt the FinTech space are encouraged to apply. In addition to working with early stage companies in core banking, payments, mobile, and fraud and security, the Venture Center and FIS are interested in supporting and potentially partnering with startups leveraging emerging technologies like cognitive computing, neural networks and blockchain innovating in financial services.”
The Venture Center is an entrepreneurial hub in Little Rock which helps accelerate the growth of local startups using mentorship, industry-focused pre-accelerator classes and various other programs.