The Mastercard Foundation Fund for Alumni Start-ups in Transition (FAST) Programme is now accepting applications for its third drive, which opens on February 20, 2026. The programme supports emerging entrepreneurs by offering enterprise assistance, business development training, and access to a network of entrepreneurs and mentors.
Application Deadline:
- 20 March 2026.
Tell Me About The Program:
The FAST Program is a Mastercard Foundation initiative designed to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs. It provides enterprise support, business development training, and access to a supportive network of mentors and peers. The program specifically targets alumni of key leadership and scholarship initiatives, helping them transition from education into entrepreneurship.
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Which Fields are Eligible?
- Open to all fields of entrepreneurship (no restriction on sector).
- Focus areas include education, transitions, inclusivity, and enterprise development.
Type:
- Entrepreneurship Support Program | Funding + Training + Mentorship.
Who can Apply?
Applicants must be:
- Alumni of one of the following programs:
- Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI)
- African Leadership Academy (ALA)
- Anzisha Prize
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
- Aspiring entrepreneurs or those in the early stages of their entrepreneurship journey.
- Students nearing graduation may receive provisional acceptance and join the next cohort after completing studies.
How are Applicants Selected?
- Based on entrepreneurial potential and alignment with program goals.
- Consideration of inclusivity: priority given to young women, refugees, displaced persons, and young people living with disabilities.
- Review of business idea stage and readiness for support.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- All Mastercard Foundation partner countries in Africa (applications open globally to alumni of listed programs).
Where will the Program be Taken?
- Delivered through partnerships with organizations including:
- CCHub Nigeria
- MDF Global
- Concree
- Scale Up
- Savannah Innovations Lab
- Center for Enterprising Organizations
- Inkomoko
- Africa Leadership Academy (ALA)
- Program activities available in English, French, Portuguese, and Arabic.
How Many Participants?
- Not specified (multiple participants selected per cohort).
What is the Benefit of the Program?
- Financial support:
- Idea Phase: Average of $3,000 (up to $5,000).
- Build Phase: Average of $12,500 (up to $15,000).
- Business development training.
- Mentorship and networking with entrepreneurs and experts.
- Access to a virtual community of practice for collaboration and shared learning.
How Long Will the Program Last?
- Duration varies by phase (Idea or Build), typically spanning several months with ongoing mentorship.
How to Apply:
- Confirm eligibility (alumni of YALI, ALA, Anzisha Prize, or Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program).
- Prepare details of your enterprise idea or early-stage business.
- Complete the online application form (available since 20 February 2026).
- Submit before the announced closing date.