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Two companies in APAC have already signed up

MasterCard’s virtual accelerator Start Path Global has returned and is calling for applications.

The six-month programme, established in 2014, is a vehicle for MasterCard to collaborate with global early stage startups. Companies do not have to move locations and are not required to offer equity. They will also have access to over 60 MasterCard experts as well as customers of large corporate banks, retail, tech and telecommunications.

Start Path has worked with over 90 companies across 24 countries, tackling different solutions including chatbots, AI and blockchain.

MasterCard is currently running active pilots with or has directly invested in nearly 20 per cent of the companies. Within APAC, it is working with six companies.

MasterCard made investments India-based online payments gateway Razorpay through Start Path. Other alumni companies ViSenze, Moneytree and Kasisto are also working with Start Path to identify growth areas, partnership possibilities and integration plans within and beyond MasterCard.

Also Read: Payments as a strategic advantage: Lessons from Adyen’s APAC President

“We believe every startup is unique and that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to working together. We have put in place different mechanisms including pilots with Mastercard business lines, access to our APIs, and connectivity to our customer base and partner networks,” said Stephane Wyper, Global Lead MasterCard Start Path, in an official press statement.

Two companies have recently signed up to join Start Path. They are: Airwallex, an Australian cross-borders payment platform; and, IMG, a VR/AR gesture recognition platform.

Interested companies (non-US only) can apply here. Applications close at 5 pm, Oct 11, 2016.

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Image Credit: MasterCard

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