Are you alumni from the Young African Leaders Initiative, African Leadership Academy, The Anzisha Prize or the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program? Apply now for the Mastercard Foundation Fund for Alumni Start-ups in Transition program (FAST). The FAST program is open to aspiring entrepreneurs or those in the early stages of their entrepreneurship journey and aims to support the next generation of entrepreneurs by providing funding and access to business development training.

The Mastercard Foundation Fund for Alumni Start-ups in Transition (FAST) program is an exceptional opportunity for young entrepreneurs who have participated in some of Africa’s most prestigious leadership and development initiatives. Whether you’re an alumnus of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), the African Leadership Academy (ALA), the Anzisha Prize, or the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, this program is designed to empower you on your entrepreneurial journey.

Who Should Apply?

The FAST program is ideal for individuals who:

– Aspire to be entrepreneurs or are in the early stages of building their businesses.

– Are alumni of any of the aforementioned programs, which have been pivotal in shaping the future leaders of Africa.

– Have a strong business idea or a startup that requires additional support to transition into a scalable enterprise.

What Does the FAST Program Offer?

  1. Funding Support: Startups often face financial challenges in their early stages. The FAST program provides essential funding to help you overcome initial financial hurdles and accelerate your business growth.
  2. Business Development Training: Access to top-tier business development training is a critical component of the program. You’ll learn essential skills in areas such as:

– Business Planning: Crafting a solid business plan that outlines your vision, mission, and operational strategies.

– Financial Management: Managing your startup’s finances effectively to ensure sustainability.

– Marketing and Branding: Building a strong brand presence and effectively marketing your products or services.

– Leadership Development: Enhancing your leadership skills to manage and grow your business successfully.

  1. Mentorship and Networking Opportunities: The FAST program also connects you with a network of experienced mentors and peers. These connections can provide invaluable advice, support, and opportunities for collaboration.
  2. Access to Resources: As part of the program, you will have access to resources that can help you refine your business model, scale your operations, and reach new markets.

Why Apply?

(a) Transform Your Vision into Reality: If you have a great idea or a fledgling business, the FAST program can help you turn it into a thriving enterprise.

(a) Leverage Your Alumni Status: Being an alumnus of YALI, ALA, the Anzisha Prize, or the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program already sets you apart as a leader. The FAST program leverages this by providing additional support tailored to your entrepreneurial journey.

(c) Join a Growing Community: By participating in the FAST program, you join a growing community of African entrepreneurs who are driving change and creating jobs on the continent.

How to Apply

Applying for the FAST program is straightforward. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, prepare your business idea or startup details, and submit your application through the designated platform. Make sure to highlight how your participation in the FAST program will help you achieve your entrepreneurial goals.

This is a unique opportunity to receive the support you need to transition your startup from concept to reality. If you’re passionate about making a difference through entrepreneurship, don’t miss out on this chance to be part of the Mastercard Foundation Fund for Alumni Start-ups in Transition.

Learn more about the program and how to apply here:

Introducing the Mastercard Foundation Fund for Alumni Start-ups in Transition (FAST) Program