FAQs

General Questions
- I am a solo founder, can I get accepted into AHLI FINTECH’s programs, or do you only look for teams?
  We only accept founding teams. In our experience, startups led by strong, well-rounded teams are better positioned to tackle challenges, execute effectively, and scale their solutions.
  If you’re a solo founder, we strongly encourage you to find a co-founder who complements your strengths and shares your commitment—it’s one of the best investments you can make in your startup’s future.
- Can I enroll in your programs if I live outside of Jordan?
  The format of our programs varies depending on the program:
  
  – Hackathon Program: Fully virtual
  
  – Incubator Program: Phase 1 is virtual; Phase 2 is hybrid (virtual and in-person)
  
  – Accelerator Program: Hybrid — includes three in-person one-week bootcamps, with the rest of the program delivered through virtual mentorship
- Can we update our application after submission?
  Once you submit your application, it enters our review process and cannot be edited.
  
  If you have a significant update—such as changes to the founding team or a revised pitch deck—please email us at [email protected], and we’ll be happy to reopen your application.
Hackathon & Incubator Program
- What does the application process look like?
  Online submission: Apply via our platform.
  
  – Initial review: Our team reviews all submissions and notifies Hackathon candidates.
  
  – Incubator selection: We don’t accept separate applications for the incubator—top Hackathon teams are invited directly to join the program.
- When will I hear back about my application?
  We typically respond via email within 2–4 business days, so please check your inbox regularly.
- Do I have to quit my job to commit to the program?
  No, we don’t expect you to quit your job during the Hackathon and Incubator programs. Our programs accommodate participants with full-time jobs. However, if you are considered for investment after the conclusion of the program, founders are required to commit full-time to their startup.
Accelerator Program
- Do you only invest in Jordanian fintech startups?
  No, you can apply from anywhere in the world, as long as your startup aims to access and scale in the Jordanian or broader MENA market.
- Can I enroll in your program if I’m not targeting the Jordanian market?
  Yes, we look for startups that want to deploy and scale in Jordan and the broader MENA region. While having a clear opportunity in the Jordanian market is preferable, it will not hinder your chances of acceptance.
- Is my company “too far along” to apply to AHLI FINTECH?
  Our Accelerator program primarily invests in startups at the pre-seed to seed stage. However, we may consider a few select pre-series A startups on a case-by-case basis.
- If we participated in another accelerator, can we apply?
  Yes, you can definitely apply. However, you may not participate in other accelerator programs during our program’s duration without prior consent from AHLI FINTECH.
  
  Since you may be at a more advanced stage, we expect your team to demonstrate higher progress and traction compared to earlier-stage startups.
- Do we need to incorporate before applying?
  Yes, you should either be incorporated or have already started the incorporation process by the time you apply. Incorporation is required to be eligible for investment and participation in the program.
- My team outsources software development, are we still qualified to apply?
  Yes, you are still qualified. However, we expect you to have a lead technical member or CTO who focuses on the tech strategy and oversees the outsourced development. As your company grows, we anticipate that you will build an in-house technical team.
- What does the application process look like?
  All applications are submitted online through our platform. Qualified applicants are invited to participate in a series of interviews. If these go well, we’ll request access to your data room for a deeper review. Successful candidates will then be invited to pitch to our investment committee for a final decision on program enrollment and investment.
- When will I hear back about my application?
  You can check your application status in real time on our platform. Please check your email frequently, as this is our main communication channel and we do not send reminders.
- Do I have to quit my job to commit to the program?
  Yes, full-time commitment to both the Accelerator program and your startup is required. We require at least two co-founders to be full-time and expect founders to be fully dedicated and actively engaged throughout the program. Building a startup is demanding, and your success (and ours) depends on your ability to focus, execute, and make the most of this opportunity. If you’re not ready to commit full-time, this may not be the right time to join.
- Can I join your Accelerator program without taking the investment?
  10. No, we only accelerate startups that we invest in. If you’re not seeking investment, our program may not be the right fit. If you’re looking for other types of support from ahli Group, please let us know by submitting a request here.
- What can I use the AHLI FINTECH investment for?
  The AHLI FINTECH investment is intended to finance your working capital.
- Will having a similar startup already funded by AHLI FINTECH affect my chances?
  We may invest in startups with similar solutions if they are addressing different problems and/or targeting different markets.
  
  However, we do not invest in directly competing startups. Because we work closely with our startups and gain unique insights into their operations and strategy, we avoid conflicts of interest by not supporting multiple startups in the same space. This ensures full dedication and support for our existing founders.

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