Mastercard Foundation FAST Program 2026 (Up to $15,000 Grant) | Global Applicants | Deadline March 20
The Mastercard Foundation FAST Program 2026 is a major entrepreneurship funding opportunity for young African and global alumni entrepreneurs. The program provides up to $15,000 in business grants, mentorship, and enterprise support to help alumni founders launch or scale their ventures. If you are an entrepreneur from Mastercard Foundation, YALI, ALA, or Anzisha networks, this is one of the most valuable startup funding programs available in 2026.
Quick Facts – Mastercard Foundation FAST Program
- Host Organization: Mastercard Foundation
- Program Type: Entrepreneurship Grant Program
- Funding Type: Partially Funded (Grant + Training + Mentorship)
- Eligible Countries: Africa, Americas, Europe, Asia (see eligibility)
- Grant Amount: Up to $15,000
- Deadline: March 20, 2026 (16:00 GMT)
- Program Mode: Online
- Duration: 3–6 months
About the Mastercard Foundation FAST Program
The Mastercard Foundation Fund for Alumni Start-ups in Transition (FAST) Program is designed to support young entrepreneurs who are alumni of leading African leadership and scholarship programs. The initiative helps early-stage founders transform business ideas into sustainable enterprises through funding, mentorship, and capacity building.
The FAST Program targets founders who are transitioning from education or early careers into entrepreneurship. Selected participants receive tailored support depending on the stage of their business — from idea validation to scaling operations.
Participants gain access to:
- Startup grants
- Business development training
- Mentorship and coaching
- Entrepreneur networks
- Professional services support
The program is delivered fully online and implemented by global partners across Africa and beyond.
Eligibility Criteria – FAST Program 2026
To apply for the Mastercard Foundation FAST Program, applicants must:
- Be alumni of one of these programs:
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
- African Leadership Academy (ALA)
- Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI)
- Anzisha Prize
- Own or co-own a for-profit business (idea or early-stage allowed)
- Be 35 years or younger by program completion
- Have a business based in an eligible country
- Provide proof of alumni status
- Be able to participate in English, French, Portuguese, Arabic, or Spanish
Final-year students from eligible programs may apply.
FAST Program Benefits
Participants in the Mastercard Foundation FAST Program 2026 receive:
Financial Support
- Idea Stage: ~$3,000 (up to $5,000)
- Build Stage: ~$12,500 (up to $15,000)
Funding is tailored to business needs and stage.
Non-Financial Benefits
- Business mentorship
- Entrepreneurship training
- Networking with founders
- Access to experts and advisors
- Shared professional services (legal, finance)
Application Process – FAST Program
Follow these steps to apply:
- Prepare proof of alumni status
- Prepare business information (idea or existing)
- Complete the FAST online application form
- Submit required documents
- If shortlisted → interview or business pitch
- Final selection by the implementing partner
Successful applicants receive funding and program placement.
How to Apply – FAST Program 2026
If you are an alumni entrepreneur ready to launch or grow your business, the Mastercard Foundation FAST Program offers funding, mentorship, and global exposure to accelerate your journey.
Apply now before the March 20, 2026, deadline
For more details, visit the official Mastercard Foundation FAST Program.
Are you looking for more international grants? Check out the GSMA Innovation Fund 2026 for tech and climate initiatives.
