They will also become part of the alumni network of 26 FinTech companies, which has cumulatively raised over USD 370 million and closed 16 commercial partnership deals as a direct result of the programme.

To maintain its position as a leading platform in Asia to facilitate and scale innovation in the FinTech space, SuperCharger will introduce a new Sandbox approach - a technical solution to simultaneously test similar technologies provided by multiple FinTech companies. It represents a leapfrog accelerator model and creates a uniquely scalable source of B2B partnerships for both FinTech start-ups and corporations.

Standard Chartered Bank, remains a main partner of SuperCharger. This year, the Bank is looking for FinTech companies with the ambition of shaping the future trends of human-centered banking, including revolutionising the onboarding process; offering a connected and seamless experience across online and offline interactions; utilising big data and artificial intelligence to build business and improve client services; as well as making use of RegTech to enhance regulatory compliance.

Carol Hung, Chief Information Officer for Hong Kong, Standard Chartered Bank, said: “We are proud to be the founding sponsor of SuperCharger. To be a digital bank with a human touch, the Bank is committed to be at the forefront of FinTech innovations and use new technology to deliver simpler, faster and better solutions for our clients. Being part of the Supercharger programme has given us access to the vibrant fintech eco-system and we have already started work with several companies to develop proof of concepts to address banking challenges. Hong Kong is one of our most important markets and we are delighted that it will be the springboard for these fast growing fintech companies to spread their wings in the Asia Pacific region.”

Veronika Kuznetsova, Managing Director of SuperCharger, said: “Our upcoming international roadshow and extensive referrals network will allow us to find the companies with the highest potential to make a difference through advanced technologies, innovative business models and pure entrepreneurial spirit. We want to see the evolution of the accelerator’s role in inspiring and facilitating real change for financial services through testing multiple solutions and connecting them to the strongest partners who can help them reach that goal.”

Applications will be open from 26 October 2017 to 5 January 2018. Details for applications will be available on www.fintechsupercharger.com. A networking launch event will be held on the 26 October 2017, during the Hong Kong FinTech Week. It will feature the successful alumni companies of SuperCharger and invite new FinTech talents to pitch their businesses live to a global audience.