Accion, a global nonprofit dedicated to creating a fair and inclusive economy, has officially opened applications for its Trust by Design Fintech Challenge.
The competition seeks to identify and elevate market-tested innovations that strengthen consumer confidence and safety within digital financial systems.
The initiative addresses a critical gap in financial inclusion, as approximately 740 million women worldwide remain unbanked, often citing a lack of trust as a primary barrier.
Accion aims to demonstrate that prioritizing transparency and consumer protection is not only a social good but a vital commercial imperative for sustainable growth.
Funding and benefits
The program will award a $50,000 Grand Prize to a top innovator, while three additional finalists will each receive $10,000.
These financial rewards are intended to support the continued development and scaling of trust-centered fintech solutions.
Beyond the cash awards, winners will receive a complimentary ticket to the Fintech for Inclusion Global Summit 2026 in London, including airfare and hotel accommodations.
They will also gain significant visibility among global investors and be featured in an industry toolkit highlighting best practices for building trust in the sector.
Application requirements and eligibility
The challenge is open to a variety of organizations, including fintech companies, financial institutions, and technology providers.
Eligible applicants must offer digitally enabled services that are already live in-market; the program is not seeking pilots or prototypes.
Strong candidates must demonstrate how they use gender-disaggregated data to inform product design, risk management, and customer protection.
Furthermore, applicants must currently operate in or have credible, strategic plans to expand into emerging markets.
Deadline
Interested organizations must submit their applications by May 22, 2026, at 23:59 ET.
Applicants are encouraged to use the provided application guide to prepare their responses in advance, as the official online form does not allow users to save their progress.
Following the submission window, semi-finalists will be notified by June 2, and winners will be announced by August 14, 2026.
A selection committee of leaders from fintech, impact investment, and consumer protection will evaluate entries based on their ability to drive measurable improvements in safety and trust.
To apply, visit Accion call page. Visit our global opportunity page for more.
Summary not available at this time.
