Visa, one of the world’s leaders in digital payments, in partnership with Startupbootcamp recently hosted “FastTrack”, a mentoring session for startups participating in the Dubai Smart City Accelerator.
The mentoring session was held at Visa’s Innovation Center located in Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Centre (DTEC), the largest hub of its kind in the Middle East that is owned by Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority. During the FastTrack sessions, participants pitch in front of a panel of senior industry mentors, and later on get some feedback and mentoring.
According to a statement made by the company, the shortlisted teams will be invited to attend an event in Dubai in mid-August where 10 finalists will be selected to join the three-month accelerator program that kicks-off in September.
Otto Williams, head strategic partnerships, Fintech and Ventures at Visa said: “We are proud to support Dubai Smart City Accelerator as we work collectively on the mission to provide start-ups with the right support, and mentorship to thrive and shape the course of smart cities in the future.”
He added that the startups who presented at the FastTrack session are focusing on developing smart solutions using emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things, Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence for the benefit of getting governments, citizens, visitors, and businesses up to speed in an intelligent, connected ecosystem.
Similarly, Pelin G Sahin, SBC Smart City Dubai director stated that FastTrack sessions are held across the globe to support startups and help them make valuable business connections. “Hosting over 300 sessions per year enables us to expand our global footprint and gain access to the top companies from all around the world,” he said.