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# Sanlam Fintech Accelerator Now Open
- URL: https://www.startup.africa/sanlam-fintech-accelerator-now-open/
- Published: 2025-07-29T07:11:21.000Z
- Updated: 2025-07-29T07:11:21.000Z
- Author: Lungile Msomi
- Tags: Accelerators & Programmes, #archive-call, Latest, Startups, Fintech

The [Sanlam Foundation](https://www.sanlam.com/sanlam-foundation?ref=startup.africa), in partnership with business development specialist [Edge Growth](https://edgegrowth.com/?ref=startup.africa), has opened applications for the Sanlam Group ESD Accelerator Programme, an 18-month initiative designed to help early-stage fintech businesses scale and access market opportunities within the insurance sector. 

## **Support for High-Growth Fintech Startups**

The [accelerator](https://www.startup.africa/top-tech-incubators-and-accelerators-in-south-africa-2025-guide/) offers a blend of business development support and features: 

- Hands-on workshops
- High-impact masterclasses led by business growth experts
- One-on-one coaching from experienced tech entrepreneurs
- Access to advisory boards for strategic guidance
- Market access opportunities and a chance to test and pitch solutions
- Possibility of qualifying for grant funding

Businesses eligible for the programme must be:

- At least 51% black owned
- Operate in the [fintech](https://www.startup.africa/fintech-in-south-africa/) sector
- Be in post-revenue stage with scalable solutions for the insurance industry
- Be able to commit to the full 18-month programme

[Fintech, Retail and Telecoms Dominate 2025 Brand RankingsMTN retains its number position followed closely by Vodacom and Standard Bank, making up the top 3 best brands according to Brand Finance.![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c2/50/c250459f-583a-4038-a1bf-9aa5491ac654/content/images/icon/Startup.Africa-Icon--2--1.svg)Startup.AfricaLungile Msomi![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c2/50/c250459f-583a-4038-a1bf-9aa5491ac654/content/images/thumbnail/Brand-100-1.png)](https://www.startup.africa/fintech-retail-and-telecoms-dominate-2025-brand-rankings/)

### **How to Apply for the Sanlam Fintech Accelerator 2025**

Interested founders must submit their applications by 1 August 2025\. Applications should be sent to Yonela Ntshakaza at [yntshakaza@edgegrowth.com](mailto:yntshakaza@edgegrowth.com) with the subject line “Insurance Accelerator Programme”, along with an overview of their business and a brief motivation for participating in the programme.

## **What is the Sanlam Foundation?**

Founded in 2011, the Sanlam Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to driving economic inclusion and uplifting vulnerable communities across Africa. It plays a key role in expressing Sanlam’s corporate social investment values by:

- Investing meaningfully in the economies of its operational markets
- Contributing to poverty alleviation and community development
- Supporting marginalised groups through targeted funding

The foundation offers two types of funding: 

- Small grants funding: Supports community development projects at a grassroots level
- Core funding: Facilitated through Expression of interest (EOIs), advertised on the foundation’s website and social media channels

To apply for funding through the Small Grants Fund, [click here](https://sanlamfoundation.fluxx.io/user%5Fsessions/new?ref=startup.africa).