Director of Accenture's FinTech Innovation Lab Asia-Pacific reveals the top tips to joining this exclusive accelerator that has helped raise $6.6 billion for alumni companies worldwide. Applications close 12 May!

Episode summary

Only 10 spots from 200+ applications. Zero cost, equity-free. Direct access to HSBC, JP Morgan, and UBS.

In this episode, Hui Jackson shares her journey from founder (e-commerce startup Souk) to running one of Asia's most prestigious fintech accelerators. She reveals the three critical traits that predict startup success: resilience, clear vision, and ability to pivot.

Learn exactly what it takes to get accepted, how the 12-week programme works, and why multiple alumni successfully pivoted from B2C to B2B after working directly with tier-1 financial institutions.

Key takeaways

• Success traits: Resilience, clear vision, and willingness to pivot
• Programme structure: 3 months, 3 stages, 3 types of mentors
• Selection tips: Clearly articulate value proposition, show POC with FS clients, demonstrate scaling plan
• Interview day: Expect 20-30 judges, come prepared, attend in person if possible
• Current trends: AI, web3, ESG, regulatory tech, and gaps in insurtech

Notable quotes

"If you're coming in with the willingness to learn, you can open up a lot of opportunities. If you're coming in with the aim to sell, then you will close off great sharing opportunities."

"The ability to pivot is very important. Some founders put blinkers on, trying to focus on improving their products, but not looking around what's happening."

"We literally got direct access to the world's top tier financial institutions meeting their senior partners, senior stakeholders."

Resources mentioned

• FinTech Innovation Lab Asia-Pacific: https://uns.sb/FILAP
• Application deadline: 12 May 2025
• Programme details: Free, equity-free, 12-week accelerator
• Global reach: Alumni from 39 countries, nearly 400 companies

About the guest

Hui Jackson is Director of the FinTech Innovation Lab Asia-Pacific at Accenture. A former founder herself, she brings unique perspective from both sides of the startup ecosystem. The Lab has been running for 12 years and is considered the anchor accelerator in Hong Kong.

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