Accion Unveils New Fund for Fintech and SMEs

Accion Ventures has introduced a fresh global fund designed to support fintech startups and small businesses. The move aims to widen access to affordable financial services for millions who remain outside the formal economy.

The nonprofit, known for championing financial inclusion, secured backing from heavyweight partners including FMO, Proparco, the Ford Foundation, MetLife, and Mastercard. Together, they hope to back innovators using tools such as artificial intelligence, embedded finance, and even satellite data to deliver scalable solutions.

Global Reach, Local Impact

Early investments have already been made in startups in Nigeria, Kenya, Indonesia, and the United States. This signals the fund’s ambition to operate across borders while addressing local challenges. Accion explained that the goal is not just financial support but also helping small businesses adapt to digital economies and build resilience.

“Our mission is to unlock inclusive prosperity by supporting entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of finance,” the organisation said during the launch.

Since 2012, Accion has invested in 76 companies across 39 countries, many of them micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). With this new fund, it is doubling down on closing the financing gap that continues to restrict small businesses globally.

The announcement comes at a time when African trade platforms such as the Intra-African Trade Fair are creating opportunities for SMEs to access new markets and partnerships. Observers believe that initiatives like Accion’s will further help businesses scale, especially in emerging markets where access to credit remains limited.

Accion also noted that technology-led financial services are no longer optional but essential. By targeting fintech startups, the organisation hopes to accelerate innovation while strengthening opportunities for small businesses to grow sustainably.