Global FinTech Hackcelerator

12 - 14 Nov 2025 | Singapore

Organised by the Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) in partnership with the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), the Global FinTech Hackcelerator celebrates a decade of fintech innovation while charting the course for the next. 

Global FinTech Hackcelerator FAQs

Why should a founder apply for Global FinTech Hackcelerator 2025?

The Global FinTech Hackcelerator 2025 provides an unmatched opportunity for early-stage fintech startups to gain global visibility, market access, and unlock growth through and mentorship, funding and partnership opportunities.

Finalists will receive:
- SGD 20,000 stipend for each finalist team.
- Complimentary exhibition kiosk at Singapore FinTech Festival 2025 (SFF 2025).
- Mentorship by senior leaders from financial institutions and leading corporates.
- Dedicated investment pool earmarked by venture capital firms to invest into Global FinTech Hackcelerator finalists (subject to due diligence).
- Masterclasses and workshops to sharpen investment readiness and operational expansion strategies.
- Pitch your startup at the Demo Day before an international audience of investors, corporate executives, and regulators.
- Networking and Deal flow: Access to Investor Hours™ and curated closed-door networking sessions.

Winners will additionally receive:
- SGD 80,000 prize money for each of the top 3 winners.
- Opportunity for pilot projects with Corporate Champions post-programme.


Does it cost anything to participate?

No. Application to Global FinTech Hackcelerator 2025 is free. Shortlisted finalists will benefit from the full programme without equity dilution. Investment opportunities are subject to negotiations between finalists and investors.


Is my startup application confidential?

Yes, all submissions will be treated confidentially and reviewed exclusively by the official Global FinTech Hackcelerator's independent evaluation panel. 


What is the application process?

  1. Submit your application through the registration form.
  2. Applications will be reviewed and shortlisted by a panel of industry experts.
  3. Finalists will be announced and onboarded for mentorship and workshops.
  4. Finalists will pitch to a panel of judges at Singapore FinTech Festival 2025.

Who are Global FinTech Hackcelerator 2025 target startups?

Global Fintech Hackcelerator 2025 is looking for early stage fintech startups that:

  • Have developed a Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
  • Are currently Bootstrapped, Pre-Seed, Seed, or Series A.
  • Based in, operating in, or intending to enter Southeast Asia.
  • Open to external funding opportunities.

What are the requirements in forming a team?

  • Participants must form their teams before registering.
  • Each individual is allowed to join one team only.
  • Teams are advised to comprise of no more than 10 members, following the “2-pizza rule” for effective collaboration.

Can I submit more than one proposal to different Problem Statements?

No. Each team or participant may submit only one proposal addressing one Problem Statement.


What should I include in the video for my application?

Your video should highlight:

  • A live demonstration of your product/service.
  • A clear articulation of how your solution addresses the selected Global FinTech Hackcelerator 2025 Problem Statement.
  • Authenticity over production quality – phone-recorded demos are welcome.

 

What do I need to include in my overall submission?

Your submission must include:

  • Proposal Document: A PDF (1–5 pages, minimum 11-point font and 1-inch margins) making the case for why your solution should be selected.
  • Pitch Deck: An overview of your solution, the problem it solves, market opportunity, business model, and team background.
  • Video Demonstration: A short video showing one or more team members presenting a live demo of your solution.

Important Submission Guidelines:

  • All documents must be in English.
  • Videos must be in English
  • Do not submit Google Drive, Dropbox, or similar links – files must be directly uploaded.
  • All submissions must be completed by 20 June 2025, 2359 SGT. Late submissions will not be accepted.

 

Who are the Corporate Champions?

Corporate Champions are leading financial institutions and corporates who contribute the official Global FinTech Hackcelerator 2025 Problem Statements.
They will work closely with finalists to contextualise and refine solutions for potential pilot engagements post-programme.

 

Do I have to be based in Singapore to participate?

No. Global FinTech Hackcelerator 2025 is open to global applicants with an interest in Southeast Asian market.
However, attendance in Singapore is mandatory for finalists during the in-person programme week and Demo Day at Singapore FinTech Festival 2025.
Each finalist team will receive a S$20,000 stipend to defray travel and accommodation costs.

 

What can winning Global FinTech Hackcelerator 2025 do for my startup?

Winning Global FinTech Hackcelerator 2025 unlocks:

  • Global brand exposure through Singapore FinTech Festival 2025.
  • Cash prizes and access to an investment pool reserved for Global FinTech Hackcelerator finalists.
  • Strategic introductions to industry leaders, government agencies, and global investors.
  • Continued post-programme support via the GFTN network.

Can finalists benefit if they don’t win?

Absolutely. All finalists will:

  • Showcase to a global audience at Singapore FinTech Festival 2025.
  • Gain mentorship fromsenior financial leaders.
  • Direct pilot collaboration opportunities with Corporate Champions.
  • Access masterclasses covering investment readiness, legal fundamentals, and scaling strategies.
  • Participate in Investor Hours™, maximising chances for partnership and investment even beyond the competition.

When will the winners be announced?

The winners will be crowned at SFF 2025 Awards Dinner on 13 November 2025.

 

Need more information?

Contact us at gfh@gftn.com – we’re happy to support you through your Global FinTech Hackcelerator 2025 journey!

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