Applications are now open for the 2024 MasterCard AI StartUp Challenge. MasterCard, the UAE Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications Office, and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) are collaborating to launch the UAE’s first AI challenge, empowering the next generation of AI pioneers.
The challenge invites seed and Series A startups to submit innovative AI-powered solutions in cybersecurity, generative AI in banking and finance, customer lifecycle management, productivity enhancement, emerging fintech, and ESG.
The competition will culminate in a pitch day, during which finalists will be evaluated by a panel of experts from the three partners.
Themes
There are 4 different themes for this challenge:
- Risk and Security: Using advanced AI technologies to help organizations better predict, assess, and mitigate potential risks and enhance the accuracy, efficiency, and effectiveness of risk management practices.
- Next-gen Banking and Finance: Leveraging cutting-edge technologies like generative artificial intelligence, blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced data analytics to offer enhanced security, personalized experiences, efficient operations, and innovative products shaping the future of banking and finance.
- Emerging fintech: Revolutionize the financial industry by leveraging advanced technologies such as generative artificial intelligence, blockchain, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT) by enhancing accessibility, efficiency, and personalization of financial services.
- ESG Sustainability: Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and sustainability initiatives are increasingly important in the banking and financial domain driving significant changes in investment strategies, lending practices, risk management, and corporate governance.
Prize
- The winner will receive a cash prize of US$150,000, access to Mastercard’s global sponsorships, events and priceless assets as well as an accelerated enrolment into its award-winning global startup engagement program Start Path.
Eligibility
- Entrants must be seed or series A startup, specializing in AI and champions in the fields of:
- Risk & Security.
- Next-Gen Banking & Finance.
- Emerging Fintech.
- ESG Sustainability.
Pitch Day
Finalists will be invited to a pitch day where ideas will be assessed by our panel of experts based on several criteria, including:
- Innovation & Novelty
- Market Potential
- Business Model & Rev Potential
- Product Fit
- Growth Strategy
- Impact on User / Society
- Presentation & Engagement
- Ethical AI / Data Privacy
- Team & Execution
- Financial Health
Application
Ready to take your startup to the next level? Apply by August 25, 2024.
Apply here
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