The Mastercard Foundation Fund for Alumni Start-ups in Transition (FAST) Program is back for 2026, offering funding, mentorship, and business support to early-stage entrepreneurs across Africa.
The program targets alumni from some of Africa’s leading leadership and scholarship initiatives and aims to help them turn ideas into thriving businesses.
Apply for Mastercard Foundation FAST Program 2026
What Is the FAST Program?
The FAST Program is designed to support young African entrepreneurs who are transitioning from education into business ownership. Participants gain access to financial resources, expert mentorship, business development training, and a network of like-minded founders.
The program is structured to nurture both idea-stage and build-stage startups, helping them grow sustainably.
Who Can Apply?
The FAST Program is open to alumni of:
- Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI)
- African Leadership Academy (ALA)
- Anzisha Prize
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
While all eligible alumni are welcome, the program particularly encourages applications from:
- Women entrepreneurs
- Refugees or forcibly displaced persons
- Persons living with disabilities
This focus on inclusion ensures that diverse entrepreneurs have the opportunity to scale their ventures.
Apply for Mastercard Foundation FAST Program 2026
FAST Program Benefits — Funding & Support
Participants are grouped into two streams based on their business stage:
Idea Stream
Entrepreneurs with early-stage ideas can receive an average of USD $3,000 to validate and develop their concepts. This funding helps refine business plans, conduct market research, and prototype products or services.
Build Stream
Entrepreneurs with existing ventures can receive an average of USD $12,500 to scale operations, expand their reach, and strengthen their business model.
Beyond funding, participants in this stream benefit from mentorship, capacity-building sessions, and networking opportunities.
How to Apply
The application process is straightforward. Applicants must submit their proposals online through the official FAST Program portal.
Submissions are accepted in English, Arabic, French, and Portuguese, making the program accessible to a broad range of entrepreneurs across Africa.
Apply for Mastercard Foundation FAST Program 2026
For full application details and to apply:
Why the FAST Program Matters
The FAST Program doesn’t just provide funding; it equips alumni with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to run successful businesses.
By supporting young entrepreneurs, the program contributes to sustainable economic growth and empowers the next generation of African business leaders.
Apply for Mastercard Foundation FAST Program 2026
FAQs About the FAST Program
Q: Who is eligible for the FAST Program?
A: Alumni of YALI, ALA, Anzisha, and Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. The program prioritizes women, refugees, and persons living with disabilities.
Q: How much funding can I receive?
A: Idea Stream: ~$3,000; Build Stream: ~$12,500 (averages).
Q: In which languages can I apply?
A: English, Arabic, French, and Portuguese.
