Financial institutions from Zimbabwe connect with Visa's Africa Fintech Program
Zimbabwean fintech startups ChatCash and BigDot.ai have made a significant stride in the African tech scene, being selected for Visa's Fourth Africa Fintech Accelerator program in 2025 [1][3]. This prestigious 12-week virtual program offers mentorship, technical training, and connections to investors, aiming to help early-stage startups grow and scale their businesses [1].
Achievements so far
ChatCash, a Zimbabwean fintech company, has developed AI-powered, multilingual payment systems that are integrated into popular messaging apps. This innovation enables Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), particularly those outside the formal banking sector, to sell and receive payments conveniently [1][3][5]. By doing so, ChatCash is helping to boost financial inclusion for underbanked populations.
BigDot.ai, another Zimbabwean startup, offers blockchain-powered checkout and financial management tools aimed at helping SMEs digitize their operations and reduce cash dependency [1][3][5]. This initiative facilitates digital transformation and financial inclusion for small businesses.
The selection of these two Zimbabwean startups in the same cohort of the Visa program indicates the presence of talent in Zimbabwe's fintech scene [1]. Moreover, it marks increased international recognition for Zimbabwe's fintech ecosystem, as the program is usually dominated by larger African tech hubs [1][2].
Future prospects
The 12-week accelerator provides ChatCash and BigDot.ai access to Visa’s technical resources, investor networks, and continental partnerships. These resources could significantly help scale their solutions not only within Zimbabwe but across Africa [1][3].
Previous accelerator cohorts have collectively raised over US$55 million and generated US$3 million in additional revenue, indicating strong potential for ChatCash and BigDot.ai to secure funding and grow revenues through this program [1].
By leveraging AI and blockchain technologies, these startups are positioned to contribute meaningfully to Africa’s ongoing digital transformation and financial inclusion agendas [1][3][5]. The coming months will be crucial to see if they can convert this opportunity into tangible regional market expansion and business growth [1].
Conclusion
ChatCash and BigDot.ai have achieved significant recognition and development milestones through Visa's Africa Fintech Accelerator, with promising prospects for scaling their innovative fintech solutions across emerging African markets. Their achievements validate their innovative approaches and dedication to providing accessible payment solutions and financial management tools. The program will enable them to further develop their solutions, expand their reach, and contribute to Africa's digital transformation.
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