Visa has announced its accelerator programme for startups in New Zealand and across Asia Pacific that are looking to expand their businesses into new markets.

An elite group of up to six start-ups will be selected by Visa to be part of the first programme cohort. The accelerator programme will create defined commercial opportunities for the startups to collaborate with Visa and its vast network of bank and merchant partners across the region.

As the engine of global commerce, Visa’s unique position will help Kiwi startups break into new geographies and reach new consumers. The programme is designed for those that have launched successful solutions within their home markets but are looking towards the next stage of growth.

Visa’s country manager for NZ and South Pacific, Marty Kerr, says New Zealanders have the ability to think outside the box.

“As part of our ongoing work with Kiwi startups, we know that to reach their full potential often means expanding into multiple markets, which can be difficult.

“Visa can help elevate their solutions to a platform where they could be pitched as a commercial deal to a major bank, retailer and technology company in the region. Our accelerator program will do this for six startups that are truly ready to take this next step.” 

Visa invites startups that want to address the following areas:

• Solving exisiting pain points or enabling new ways to pay or be paid to enhance the consumer and business experience
• Supporting small businesses to digitally transform and grow their business as they adapt to a Covid-19 world
• Leveraging the growing open data environment in the region to develop more personalised banking and shopping experiences 
• Developing new ways of moving money that aren’t dependent on traditional credit and debit cards 

Applications are open to startups that are Series A and above, have a long term commitment to Asia Pacific growth and existing operations in the region, and have a market-validated, proven solution.

To learn more about how to apply visit here: