Fintech Fusion

Fusion, Switzerland’s first fintech accelerator, is selecting about 10 financial technology start-ups for a place in the accelerator, which will begin operating from 1 October 2015. Fusion brings together a broad group of stakeholders: corporate members such Temenos, the market-leading banking software vendor, which provide sponsorship and mentoring; resource partners, such as Capco, which provide technological consulting; and academic partners, including IDIAP (EPFL affiliated research institute), which provide access to cutting edge research and facilities. The aim of Fusion is create a thriving ecosystem of fintech start-ups, which will boost and reinforce Switzerland’s reputation as a financial hub. Unlike many other incubators and accelerators, Fusion takes no upfront equity stake in the start-ups it accelerates. But, in common with some, it offers through its corporate members the opportunity for start-ups to be mentored by leading companies in their field who will facilitate access to their networks and customers. Fusion is especially interested in companies working in areas such as asset and wealth management, insurance, and commodity trading.