Last updated: June 2026
The Mint Accelerator by BTV is a pre-seed program designed exclusively for fintech founders. With a focus on deep industry expertise, funding, and community, The Mint provides startups with 💰 $500,000 in investment and a 10-week in-person program in 📍 San Francisco and New York. This accelerator is built by fintech operators who understand the unique challenges of launching and scaling a fintech startup.
The program goes beyond mentorship, offering hands-on guidance, direct funding, and an extensive fintech network to help startups reach their next growth milestone. 🙌
The Mint Accelerator Overview
- Program Duration: ⏳ 10 weeks, in person
- Location: 📍 New York & San Francisco
- Funding: 💰 $500,000 investment for 10% equity via SAFE
- Equity Taken: 10% equity in exchange for funding
- Cohort Size: Selective, focusing on high-potential fintech founders
- Key Benefits:
- Exclusive access to fintech industry leaders & BTV network
- Bespoke programming, firesides, and office hours with top fintech experts
- Investor connections and Demo Day with tier-1 VCs, founders, and strategic partners
- Annual founder retreat with BTV’s fintech portfolio
3. The Mint Program Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for The Mint, applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Fintech Focus: Startups building in financial services, payments, banking, lending, insurance, blockchain, or related sectors.
- Stage: Pre-seed companies, typically pre-revenue but with a clearly defined problem to solve.
- Founder Commitment: Must be available for the full 10-week in-person program in either New York or San Francisco.
- Global Reach: Open to fintech startups worldwide, not limited to the U.S. market.
💡 Pro Tip: The Mint does not typically invest in founders at the “-1 to 0” stage. Be prepared to show deep market knowledge and a well-defined problem statement.
4. The Mint Accelerator Application Process
- Online Application
- Submit an application detailing your fintech vision, market opportunity, and team background.
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Screening & Interviews
- Selected applicants are invited for interviews with BTV partners.
- Expect strategic questions on your market, competitive edge, and product vision.
- Acceptance & Program Kickoff
- Accepted startups receive immediate funding ($500K for 10% equity).
- Program begins in New York or San Francisco with hands-on fintech-focused support.
🚀 Pro Tip: Apply early—BTV sends offers to pre-seed startups months before the cohort begins, meaning support starts before the accelerator even kicks off.
5. The Mint Accelerator Investment Terms
- Funding Structure: $500,000 investment in exchange for 10% equity via a SAFE agreement.
- Long-Term Support: BTV remains actively engaged beyond the 10-week program, providing guidance and investment support.
- Demo Day & Fundraising Support:
- Live pitch event to tier-1 VCs, fintech investors, and strategic partners.
- Ongoing connections for startups that aren’t ready to fundraise immediately.
6. Why Choose The Mint?
- Specialized Fintech Focus
- Unlike generalist accelerators, The Mint is built by fintech experts, offering deep industry insights and targeted guidance.
- $500K Investment with Hands-On Support
- Founders receive an immediate funding boost and work closely with BTV partners & fintech leaders.
- Access to BTV’s Global Fintech Network
- Get connected to top-tier fintech VCs, angel investors, and banking/insurance partners.
- In-Person Community & Rapid Execution
- Live, hands-on sessions in San Francisco and New York foster fast learning and execution.
- No Fixed Fundraising Deadline
- Companies raise when they’re ready, with ongoing investor support beyond the accelerator.
7. Tips for a Winning The Mint Application
- Show a Clear Problem & Market Need
- Clearly define what fintech problem you’re solving and why it matters.
- Demonstrate Fintech Expertise & Readiness
- Founders should have industry knowledge and a strong understanding of fintech regulations and distribution challenges.
- Be Ready to Relocate for the Program
- The Mint is fully in-person, and founders must be present in NYC or SF for the full duration.
- Highlight Your Unique Competitive Edge
- Show how your fintech solution stands out in the market.
- Demonstrate Growth Potential
- Investors look for fintech companies with scalable, high-impact business models.
🔥 Pro Tip: The Mint values founders who take initiative and seek out opportunities proactively. Show your drive in your application.
8. FAQs
Q1: How long is The Mint program?
A1: 10 weeks, fully in-person in New York or San Francisco.
Q2: Do I need to relocate?
A2: Yes. The Mint requires founders to be on-site for community-building and hands-on learning.
Q3: Can I apply if my startup is just an idea?
A3: The Mint prefers startups that have defined a problem but are still pre-revenue.
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Q4: What happens after the program?
A4: BTV remains actively involved with alumni companies, offering continued support and investor connections.
Q5: What industries does The Mint focus on?
A5: Fintech—including payments, banking, lending, insurance, blockchain, and financial services.
9. Final Thoughts on Getting Into The Mint Accelerator
For fintech founders seeking expert support, funding, and an unparalleled network, The Mint Accelerator by BTV is a top-tier program that offers $500K investment, fintech-specific mentorship, and hands-on execution strategies.
With a focused 10-week curriculum, live Demo Day, and access to the fintech industry’s best investors and partners, The Mint helps founders accelerate their growth and prepare for future fundraising rounds.
If you’re a fintech founder looking for an elite pre-seed program, The Mint can be the launchpad that takes your startup from idea to execution and beyond.
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Related reading: top fintech startup accelerators in the U.S. · startup accelerator application checklist · Better Tomorrow Ventures partner Sheel Mohnot
