gener8tor Launches Accelerator with Curql to Support Fintech Companies
New Accelerator Program to Foster Collaboration Between Credit Unions and Fintech
Curql’s partnership with gener8tor will invest $100,000 into five startups
Des Moines, IA – Curql, in partnership with gener8tor, a prominent startup accelerator and investment fund, unveiled its latest strategic initiative aimed at accelerating credit union innovation. Curql Accelerate powered by gener8tor is set to close the gap between credit unions and fintech pioneers. Startups building solutions ranging from member experience to transformative digital services will have access to tools and relationships across Curql’s credit union ecosystem. “Curql Accelerate directly advances our mission to bring fintech to credit unions by expanding the diversity and breadth of fintech founders within our ecosystem,” said Nick Evens, President & CEO of Curql Collective.
Five startups will be selected by a committee of credit union leaders for the inaugural program commencing in January 2024. Each startup selected will receive $100K in investment from Curql Fund I and a pathway to becoming a CUSO (Credit Union Service Organization), which is a required qualification to receive the investment. Access to tailored support, seasoned mentors, industry expertise, pilot opportunities, and potential investors are all key aspects of the program. The accelerator will leverage a hybrid format, meeting consistently in a virtual setting and more notably, working on-site at select progressive credit unions across the country. The deadline to apply for the inaugural cohort is November 26, 2023 and interested startups can submit an application here.
Curql has expanded its team specifically for this new program, bringing Managing Director Rowan Hume into the fold. Rowan brings over 4 years of experience running accelerator programs with gener8tor.
The inaugural Curql Accelerate powered by gener8tor program in the spring will be followed by a second program in the fall of 2024. For any questions regarding how to be considered for the program or those interested in learning about mentorship or partnership opportunities, please reach out to Rowan at rowan@gener8tor.com.
About gener8tor
gener8tor is a global venture firm and accelerator network that supports startups, workers, employers, artists and musicians across race, place and gender. gener8tor partners with companies, governments, universities and nonprofits to operate accelerator programs and conferences in more than 41 communities across 22 states and two countries. Fast Company named gener8tor one of the Best Workplaces for Innovators in 2021 and 2022. The International Trade Council recognized gener8tor as the Global Venture Capital Firm of the Year in 2022.
About Curql Collective
Curql Collective is a collaborative approach that brings investment capital, credit unions, and fintech together. Launched in 2020, Curql is steered by a collective of forward-thinking credit unions, including former founders, operators, and leaders in the fintech and investment spaces. The group’s flagship – Curql Fund I – invests in the visions of entrepreneurs who thoughtfully and purposefully develop financial services technology that revolutionizes and innovates how people engage with their money. For more information, please visit www.curql.com.