As we kick-off Financial Literacy Month, AFC recently met with the first cohort of the CAFE fintech accelerator program

Newark, DE (April 3, 2024) – The American Fintech Council (AFC), the premier industry association representing responsible fintech companies and innovative banks has announced the addition of the Center for Accelerating Financial Equity (CAFE) as their latest strategic partner. Located at the Fintech Innovation Hub by Delaware Tech Park on the University of Delaware campus, CAFE is a non-profit organization that advances financial health & wellness for low- to moderate- income (LMI) and other underserved populations through fintech innovation and partnerships.

“We are excited to welcome CAFE as our latest strategic partner,” said Phil Goldfeder, CEO of the American Fintech Council. “In only a short time, the team at CAFE has built a network of leading financial institutions, academics, data scientists and cutting-edge startup companies to create an ecosystem that will collaborate to modernize the financial system and help democratize financial services.”

Through their flagship Fintech Accelerator Program, CAFE supports and scales real world innovation by helping to grow revolutionary businesses that not only create disruptive technologies but also have a strong focus on leveling the financial playing field. They work with financial institutions, investors, and other organizations to connect with cutting-edge fintech solutions to reach new customers and existing communities in new ways.

“AFC’s mission and values are closely aligned with CAFE and we are thrilled to partner with such a changemaking industry association to create a more inclusive financial system,” said Kristen Castell, CAFE Managing Director. “AFC is not just talk – they are doing the work with regulators, financial institutions, and fintechs every day – that will help improve business across the country and people’s lives. CAFE is excited to connect our respective communities for a greater positive impact.”

AFC recently spent time in Delaware meeting with the first cohort of innovative companies that were selected for the CAFE Fintech Accelerator Program. Companies chosen from across the United States, will join a 10-week hybrid-virtual program where the accelerator companies will benefit through intensive growth-oriented curriculum, mentors, advisors, and speakers representing the wide range of stakeholders in financial equity, as well as ecosystem connections including financial institutions and banks, capital sources, and potential customers. The CAFE Fintech Accelerator Program is the first of many programs and initiatives that CAFE will offer to further the mission and to innovate finance, for better lives.

AFC and its members advocate for the next generation of companies at the intersection of technology and financial services, while ensuring a transparent regulatory framework for its membership and the populations it serves. They foster innovative, transparent, and responsible products that promote competition, consumer protection, financial health, inclusion, and equity. AFC is committed to robust industry standards, focused on consumer protection and regulatory compliance, in addition to advocating for and embracing appropriate government regulation.

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