Mastercard Launches Lighthouse Programme in Azerbaijan, Empowering Local Startups Through Global Access
Mastercard launches the Lighthouse program in Azerbaijan for the first time, offering local fintech and tech startups access to global networks, expert mentorship, and strategic growth support.
Mastercard is launching its internationally recognized Lighthouse startup acceleration programme in Azerbaijan. Designed to support high-potential fintech and tech startups, the programme connects local innovators with Mastercard’s international network, offering mentorship, strategic support, and visibility to help businesses scale.
A Global Platform Arrives in Azerbaijan
Originally launched in the Nordics and Baltics in 2018, Mastercard Lighthouse has become a gateway for startups to scale their ideas into global-ready solutions. By combining industry expertise with a strong partner network, the programme offers participants a structured path to refine their products, engage with corporate partners, and attract investor interest.
The launch in Azerbaijan marks the latest expansion of the programme, opening new opportunities for local entrepreneurs to tap into Mastercard’s regional and international ecosystem. Following the positive results in Türkiye, Mastercard Lighthouse Azerbaijan is set to launch in 2025.
Yasemin Bedir, Mastercard Eastern Europe Division President, commented:
“We are excited to expand the Lighthouse programme to Azerbaijan, a country with rising innovation potential and a dynamic entrepreneurial landscape. The success of the Türkiye edition has shown us how much value we can bring by combining Mastercard’s global network with EBRD’s local development expertise. Through this programme, we aim to give Azerbaijani startups the credibility, confidence, and tools to scale internationally.”
Supporting the Next Generation of Azerbaijani Innovators
Startups selected to participate in Mastercard Lighthouse Azerbaijan will gain access to personalized, high-impact support designed to accelerate their growth. This includes one-on-one mentorship from Mastercard’s senior experts, access to curated workshops and practical training sessions, and exposure to a global network of more than 30,000 partners. In addition, the programme will help startups refine their business models, strengthen go-to-market strategies, and prepare for future investment rounds. The programme is designed to support positionitioning Azerbaijan as a dynamic innovation hub in the region.
