Our Fintech Accelerator Program
The only bank and credit union partnership accelerator for seed+ fintech founders scaling financial health solutions – equity-free, impact first, with demonstrated alumni success.
“CAFE is not just an accelerator—it’s a game-changer. While other programs exist, none rival the intentionality, strategic focus, and powerful access that CAFE provides. For a fintech like Prismm, gaining exposure to the right customer demographics is critical, and CAFE goes beyond expectations by placing you directly in front of banks and financial partners committed to your success.
The expertise of their industry leaders, membership in top associations, and the openness of their network and relationship capital propelled me and Prismm forward in truly spectacular ways. CAFE doesn’t just support your growth – they amplify it.”
Martha Underwood, Founder, Prismm
Support for Fintechs Ready to Scale
At CAFE, we recognize that scaling a fintech solution requires more than just funding – it takes strategic partnerships, industry credibility, and access to the right relationships and opportunities at the right time.
Our program offers a hands-on, immersive two month experience where mission-driven founders gain direct exposure to financial institutions, regulators, and investors who are eager to collaborate.
With expert-led sessions, customer pitch opportunities and a strong community of collaborative innovators, CAFE provides aa opportunity for startups to accelerate growth, navigate complex industry landscapes, and drive meaningful financial outcomes.
Spring 2026 Program Application deadline: February 24, 2026
Spring Program Dates: April 7 – May 29, 2026
What Makes the CAFE Accelerator Unique
Unparalleled exposure
By the end of the two-month cohort, you’ll have engaged with over 40 financial services executives, investors, regulators, and other key changemakers – many of whom are ready to support and open their networks to you. And you’ll start building these relationships from Day 1 of our program.
Real-world coaching, not just pitch practice
We go beyond presentation skills to deliver actionable insights and hands-on support in critical areas like selling to financial institutions, regulatory compliance, AI and fintech applications, and risk management.
Equity-free, impact-centric support
We believe in the power of your technology to change lives, which is why our accelerator program does not dilute your company’s equity, allowing you to focus on what matters most: scaling your impact.
A track record of real results
Our accelerator participants have secured funding, forged strategic partnerships, and expanded their customer base through CAFE’s accelerator – proof that our approach drives tangible success in the fintech ecosystem.
Built by fintech insiders, for fintech founders
CAFE’s leadership and expert network include experienced fintech professionals who understand the unique challenges of scaling in this space and provide insights that go beyond surface-level advice.
Program Criteria
Eligibility Requirements:
- Technology company based in the United States,
- with a built product in-market,
- and an initial customer base (including selling to financial institutions);
- employing a full-time founding team,
- with a product that improves people’s financial lives, especially low- to moderate- income (LMI) individuals.
- Founders must commit to 3 days in Newark, DE during the program.
Our Spring 2026 Cohort
An intelligent legacy infrastructure platform that helps families securely organize financial and legal information by creating a trusted system of record for continuity. Our product expands access to secure estate and benefit management tools that reduce lost assets, prevent disputes, and help LMI families preserve and transfer wealth with confidence.
Co-Founders: Lori Selsberg (CEO) & David Selsberg (COO)
A no-code AI/ML platform built for financial institutions to create, deploy, and govern intelligent models within existing workflows. Our product enables more personalized, inclusive, and affordable financial services that expand access to credit and financial guidance for LMI individuals.
Co-Founders: Suman Singh (CEO) Valsan Ponnachath (President)
A digital collections platform for financial institutions using omnichannel engagement, behavioral insights, and AI-driven tools to support better repayment outcomes. Our product helps institutions improve recovery rates while empowering consumers to rebuild credit and strengthen long-term financial resilience.
Gwyneth Borden (Founder & CEO)
A benefits technology platform that identifies eligible HSA expenses across any credit or debit card, removing the need for manual receipt tracking. Our product helps individuals maximize tax-advantaged benefits and make healthcare spending more affordable, especially for those on high-deductible plans.
Danny Friday (Founder & CEO) Yin Mei (Strategy & Ops)
A secure onboarding platform that enables users to upload financial information once and share it with multiple institutions on demand. Our product reduces friction in the application process and helps expand access to financial services for LMI individuals and those with non-traditional financial profiles.
Co-Founders: Derrick Walton (CEO) & Kathryn Outlaw (COO)
An AI-powered engagement platform that helps credit unions personalize member interactions, streamline operations, and deliver more effective financial guidance. Our product supports personalized decision-making that helps members, especially LMI individuals, avoid costly mistakes and keep more of their money.
Jennifer Lewis (Founder/CEO)
A guided homebuying and selling platform that helps consumers complete real estate transactions with software-driven support and lender and attorney integration. Our product lowers transaction costs and helps low- and moderate-income families save money, build equity, and strengthen long-term financial stability.
Leland Remias (Co-Founder/CEO) & Tim Piatt (Head of Partnerships)
An AI-powered platform that helps business owners, advisors, and SMB programs plan and execute succession and exit strategies. Our product supports employee ownership transitions that preserve local jobs, expand access to ownership, and help everyday workers build long-term wealth.
Co-Founders: Ashish Agrawal (Founder & CEO) Sonali Kothari (COO)
The best way to stay updated about our Accelerator dates and other CAFE programs is to follow us on LinkedIn.
If you are interested in learning more about mentorship, financial sponsorships, or other partnership opportunities, email hello@ftcafe.org or reach out to our Program Manager, Ryan Venderlic at ryan@ftcafe.org.
Upcoming Events
- Spring 2026 Accelerator Applications Open Now: Click here to apply
- SAVE the DATE: April 8, 2026
First State Finovation Conference Location: Newark, Delaware
Our partners at the Delaware Technology Park GrowthStage Incubator are dedicated to fostering entrepreneurial success through a collaborative and innovative environment. Located in the Fintech Innovation Hub at the University of Delaware, GrowthStage Incubator provides services designed to support diverse business needs. Included in membership are innovative co-working spaces and private offices. Not only do members gain a physical workspace for their business, entrepreneurs are offered support, where companies can thrive through resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. GrowthStage is not just an incubator, it’s a vibrant hub for success!