FTS 2026 Innovation Challenge Application

The Fintech South Innovation Award is an annual prize orchestrated by the Technology Association of Georgia (TAG) that recognizes innovative U.S. fintech startups with a location in Georgia.  

Any fintech startup that meets the eligibility requirements listed below is encouraged to apply. Eight to 10 startups will be selected from the eligible applicants to participate in a four-week Education and Mentoring program prior to Fintech South. On the 4th week, all of the participating startups will compete as part of a “pitch night” with three finalists selected to present their innovation at Fintech South on August 18th, at Truist Park.

The winner of the Fintech South Innovation Challenge receives a $25,000 cash award.

Award Eligibility Requirements:

  • Innovation must be targeted at the greater financial services industry
  • Applicants must be headquartered or founder(s) located in Georgia 
  • Company must be incorporated (LLC, S-Corp, C-Corp)
  • A company cannot have raised more than $1.5 million in funding (equity and/or debt) for working capital purposes at the time of the application
  • Preference for applicants to have a functional prototype of an innovation concept Minimum Viable Product
  • Applicants must attend in-person and complete all four sessions of the Fintech South Innovation Challenge Education and Mentoring programs -- dates to be announced.
     

Startups can apply until June 30th, 2026. A panel of judges will review the entries and notify recipients by July 17

Good luck!

Any questions about the application process may be directed to events@tagonline.org. 

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Primary Contact Information

Company Information

Why did the founders start this company? How do the founders know each other? How many total team members does your company have?

What product/service are you building and what pain/problem is it solving in financial services?

Tell us about your market including size and expected growth. Also, include your revenue model, ideal customer profile, customer segments, and main competitors.

What differentiates what you are building from competitors and how will it be defensible over time? Do you have any novel or protected technology?

What is your most recent product milestone? What are the top three risks you have identified to the success of your business? How have you been working to address those risks?

If you have a company presentation please link it here.

20MB max
Application Guidelines and Award Overview

  • Innovation must be targeted at the greater financial services industry
  • Applicants must be headquartered or founder(s) located in Georgia
  • Preferably company/subsidiary to be registered as a State of Georgia Corporation
  • A company cannot have raised more than $1.5 million in funding (equity and/or debt) for working capital purposes at the time of the application
  • Preference for applicants to have a functional prototype of innovation concept
  • Applicants must attend in-person and complete all four sessions of the Fintech South Innovation Challenge Education and Mentoring programs.


I have read, understand and agree to comply to the application guidelines and grant requirements.
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