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PARTNER WITH US | Start path

Powerful partnerships for scale

Start Path is Mastercard’s award-winning startup engagement program providing global support for fintechs.

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Start Path has supported fintechs since 2014 

500+

startups in 55+ countries

$25b+

estimated capital raised post-program

15,000+

brokered global connections

A global team of experts
Meet the team

What we look for

Solution

Unique and proven solution with clear market differentiation and reference customers.

Strategic fit

Startups that align with Mastercard’s strategy and business.

Stage

Investment raised (Seed, Series A or later) with product live in market and generating revenue.

Team

Founders and teams with strong, relevant backgrounds that are passionate and ready to scale.

What we offer startups 

Rapid path to scale

Startups leverage our global network, partnerships and fintech solutions on their journey to scale.

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Dedicated support


Our team is dedicated to creating a pipeline that is unique and relevant to each company.

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Channels and customers

Start Path gives startups access to thousands of our customers and partners around the world.

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Potential investment

We have a dedicated fund to invest in startups, if and when a strategic fit is identified.

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How it works

Step 1

Submit your application online

Looking for global scale, accelerated expansion, and a trusted partner
to help you grow? Start your journey by applying online today.

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Step 2

Mastercard evaluates your application.

Step 3

Potential candidates are invited to share more about their solutions with our relevant product teams.

Step 4

Selected startups take part in a virtual engagement program.

A suite of programs to help fintechs scale

Start Path drives strategic partnerships, co-innovation opportunities and engagement between fintechs and Mastercard's global ecosystem.

Acceptance

Building the future of new and innovative payment acceptance experiences

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Blockchain & digital assets

Expanding and accelerating digital asset innovation

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Emerging fintech

Building the next generation of payment, fintech and climate solutions

Learn more
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Open finance

Unlocking data and financial infrastructures

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Small business

Empowering small businesses everywhere

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Security solutions

Enhancing security and trust across all digital interactions

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For corporates

Access Mastercard’s highly curated network of global startups to find trusted partners and innovative solutions that enable growth.

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Get in touch

If you are a Mastercard customer get in touch to find out how you can become a 
corporate member.

Get in touch
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Frequently asked questions

What is Mastercard Start Path and who is it tailored for?

Mastercard Start Path is a global startup engagement program that partners with later-stage startups and fintech innovators to accelerate growth. It is tailored for companies with proven solutions that can transform commerce, payments, and financial services.

How does Start Path help fintechs and later-stage startups scale

Start Path connects startups to Mastercard’s global ecosystem of banks, merchants, and technology partners. Through mentorship, co-innovation opportunities, and access to Mastercard’s platforms, participants can expand into new markets and scale faster.

Who can apply?

Start Path is tailored for startups that have a market-ready product, strong traction, and a clear strategy for growth. Ideal applicants operate in areas such as payments, digital assets, cybersecurity, sustainability, and emerging technologies.

What regions does Start Path cover?

Start Path is a truly global program, supporting companies across North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa. This global reach enables startups to explore cross-border opportunities and partnerships.

What are the six tailored tracks within Start Path and what does each focus on?

The program offers six specialized tracks: Acceptance - Building the future of new and innovative payment acceptance experiences, Emerging fintech – Building the next generation of payment, fintech and climate solutions, Blockchain & digital assets – Expanding and accelerating digital asset innovation, Security solutions - Enhancing security and trust across all digital interactions, Small business - Empowering small businesses everywhere, Open finance - Unlocking data and financial infrastructures

What are the key benefits of joining Start Path (e.g., global network, mentorship, investment)

Start Path participants gain access to Mastercard’s global network, strategic mentorship, co-innovation opportunities, and potential investment support. The program also offers visibility, credibility, and connections to accelerate business growth.

Are there investment opportunities for startups in the program?

Mastercard may take an option to invest in some selected startups, but this is not the aim of the program and investment is not guaranteed.

What criteria does Mastercard use to select startups for Start Path?

Mastercard evaluates startups based on product-market fit, scalability, innovation, and alignment with Mastercard’s vision for shaping the future of commerce and payments.

How can companies apply or express interest in Start Path?

Companies can apply through the official Start Path page on Mastercard.com by completing the online application form. Interested businesses can also reach out via the contact options provided on the site.

How long is the program?

The core program typically runs for six months, with ongoing engagement opportunities and potential partnerships beyond the initial term.