About CAFE
CAFE is a non-profit organization that advances financial health & wellness for low- to moderate- (LMI) and other underserved populations through financial technology (fintech) innovation and partnerships.
Through our flagship CAFE Fintech Accelerator Program, we support and scale “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. We 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.
CAFE is based out of the beautiful, new, and well-equipped physical location in the Fintech Innovation Hub, operated by the renowned Delaware Technology Park, located on the prestigious STAR Campus of the University of Delaware. The Fintech Innovation Hub is a “center of excellence” created by a public-private partnership—a convergence of academic rigor, business savvy and technical expertise with the intention of pooling resources to make financial systems work better for all.
Why CAFE:
✨Inclusive Innovations
We support cutting-edge fintechs with technologies ready to grow to reshape the world toward an inclusive financial future.
✨Community Connections
We connect founders with bankers, investors, and other orgs for customers, talent, partnerships, and funding.
✨Non-Profit Ethos
CAFE is about people first, then profits. We offer an equity-free accelerator program at no-cost to fintech founders.
Meet the Team
Kristen Castell
Managing Director,
CAFE
Fintech entrepreneur, and former financial product executive at BlackRock and JPMorgan, who passionately builds and advises companies, programs, and communities focused on advancing financial inclusion.
Pedro Moore
Director, GrowthStage Incubator
Serial Entrepreneur, Former VC, and Venture Capital Advisor to investors such as Daymond John of Shark Tank. Focused on developing and managing the GrowthStage Incubator in the Fintech Innovation Hub, in partnership with CAFE.
Breanna Reyes
Operations Coordinator,
CAFE
Coordinates operations and program needs across all aspects of CAFE. Streamlines business processes while maintaining effective communications with the CAFE team and it’s advisors.
Advisors
Mike Bowman
Board Chairman, CAFE
CEO of Delaware Tech Park (DTP)
As CEO Delaware Technology Park, over 25 years of scaling businesses and centers of excellence, including building the renowned Fintech Innovation Hub where CAFE is located. This is the latest of seven technology based buildings. Community, public and private partnerships connector as State Director of Delaware Small Business Development Center (SBDC) located at University of Delaware.
Charlie Horn
Advisory Board- External Relations,
CAFE CEO, 5Lights LLC & Genius Avenue
Entrepreneurial visionary, innovator, and founder of private companies, as well as University of Delaware’s Horn Entrepreneurship. Chairman of 5Lights, LLC, and multiple successes growing niche businesses and teams.
Wayne Miller
Advisory Board, CAFE
SVP, Innovation Programs, ICBA
Entrepreneur, Investor and Mentor. Built and led world renowned fintech accelerators and corporate innovation programs, including Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) ThinkTECH and FIS fintech accelerators. Community bank connector. Passionate about financial wellness.
Matt Parks
Advisory Board, CAFE
VP, Investments, CRA and Banking, Discover Financial
Experienced financial investor, specializing in community development lending, CRA tax credits, and other programs for financial health and wellness of LMI populations.
Tracy Schickel
Board President, CAFE
AVP, Corporate Engagement, University of Delaware
Creating partnerships between the university and business community for mutually beneficial engagement. Liaison to the University of Delaware talent, resources, and research.
Amy Walls
Board Treasurer & Secretary, CAFE
Senior Principal, CRA, Discover Financial
Delivers impactful community development investments and services that improve the financial health and quality of life for people of low- and moderate-income. Launched a CRA funded venture capital fund. Active board member and volunteer with several nonprofits and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs).
Our Growing List of Partners
Sponsors for the Spring 2024 Accelerator Cohort
