Mercy Corps Ventures has launched the AI for Financial Resilience Program, a global initiative aimed at harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and blockchain to advance financial inclusion.
The programme targets unbanked and underbanked communities across emerging markets, providing them with access to affordable and reliable financial services.
Focus
The initiative seeks to leverage technology-driven innovation to bridge financial gaps, enhance climate resilience and promote economic stability.
It supports the creation of digital tools that enable low-income individuals and small businesses to better manage risks, build savings, and recover from climate-related shocks. Another key objective is to generate insights and research that inform future investments in inclusive fintech.
Funding
Successful applicants will receive up to $50,000 in equity-free funding to pilot or scale their solutions.
Additionally, participants gain access to mentorship, increased visibility and opportunities for collaboration within Mercy Corps Ventures’ global network of partners. The programme also helps innovators build sustainable business models that drive long-term impact for vulnerable communities.
Innovation priorities
Supported projects include AI-powered insurance systems, parametric credit solutions and digital savings tools using tokenisation and anticipatory cash transfer mechanisms.
These innovations aim to improve financial access, strengthen trust in digital systems and build resilience in regions affected by economic and environmental shocks. The programme also promotes AI-driven financial education to empower individuals with better decision-making tools for money management.
Who can apply
The call is open to startups, organisations and innovators working to enhance financial resilience in emerging markets. Applicants must demonstrate strong impact potential and a sustainable growth plan.
Eligibility criteria include:
● Proven capacity to reach unbanked or underbanked populations
● Focus on low-income individuals, women, immigrants or MSMEs
● Use of AI, blockchain or related emerging technologies
● Measurable social or financial impact outcomes
● Feasible and scalable business model ready for pilot implementation
Requirements
Applicants must clearly define their project objectives, outline measurable outcomes, and demonstrate technological readiness.
Proposals should detail how their solutions address financial inclusion or climate resilience challenges in their target communities. Strong emphasis will be placed on innovation, feasibility and the potential for responsible scaling.
Deadline
The closing date for applications is December 1, 2025. Visit the Mercy Corps Ventures website to apply. Explore more global calls on our Opportunities page.
Summary not available at this time.
