These judges were carefully chosen from our 500+ judging pool for their strong expertise on FinTech activity happening in the region. They assessed the startups on their ability to provide an important innovation for the financial industry in the near future and ultimately narrowed the selection process to the following contestants:

Company description
Aflore connects 65% of unbanked population in Latam through a network of community financial advisors Colombia
Alegra is a book-keeping application for SME in Latam Colombia
Bayonet has created a global database of consumers payment history to enable companies to make informed decisions around creditworthiness Mexico
BitNexo uses the bitcoin blockchain to clear payments between emerging markets via direct currency conversion Chile
Bitso connects Mexico's traditional banking infrastructure to the new digital era of bitcoin and blockchain for international cross border payments Mexico
Descatame improves access to credit and other financial services for individuals and SMEs currently excluded from the financial system Chile
FOL has created an "online platform" to invest in mutual funds, requiring low value investments and allowing you to compare funds Chile
Quotanda has created a marketplace for student financing, managed by schools to help connect borrowers with lenders Mexico
Seguridad Biométrica de México has created biometric authentication protocols using fingerprints, voice and facial gestures recognition Mexico

These companies are now preparing themselves to pitch their innovative solutions in Mexico City on 29 June, during the SWIFT Latin American Regional Conference. Attracting delegates from across the region, this two-day event provides an opportunity to discuss the latest developments in the financial industry and to network with industry peers. This year’s conference will focus on Latin America’s evolution and transformation. The global picture poses clear opportunities but it also calls for changes that will ultimately ensure the region’s competitive prowess. Industry leaders will discuss their vision and aspirations for the region, through a combination of plenary sessions and dedicated streams focusing on payments, securities, technology and regulation.

“The FinTech revolution is well underway in Latin America, with many creative alternatives to traditional banking developed by young and dynamic startups.” says Fabian Vandenreydt, Global Head of Securities Markets, Innotribe and the SWIFT Institute at SWIFT. “The Startup Challenge is an enriching experience for every participant as they benefit from expert mentoring and get that much needed exposure to banks and financial institutions. We are delighted to bring the programme to Latin America for the first time this year. It is an exciting step and we look forward to seeing the selected startups in action in Mexico.”

As a part of the Startup Challenge, each selected company receives complimentary coaching sessions with seasoned entrepreneurs, venture capitalists and bank representatives who will give them sound advice ahead of the formal pitches taking place on 29 June.

During the showcase, the audience will vote for the three best startups who will be invited to Sibos, SWIFT’s annual global financial services conference, taking place from 26-29 September in Geneva. The three finalists will have the opportunity to share the stage with FinTech experts, providing great insights on innovation happening on the ground in Latin America to the financial industry at large. They will also receive a 10,000 USD cash prize each.