UK-based startup straitPay has emerged as the Fintech Startup of the Year at the London finals of the StartUp Awards 2023 held on June 8th. The event, which aims to recognize the achievements of entrepreneurs in various sectors of the economy, bestowed 30 different awards upon new businesses, including accolades such as Innovative StartUp of the Year and Technology Services StartUp of the Year.
straitPay is a technology company that operates in partnership with licensed entities in different jurisdictions. Its mission is to facilitate financial prosperity and growth across all sectors of Africa’s economy. The company’s primary goal is to eliminate excessive paperwork and bureaucratic hurdles that often hinder spending, investing, and interaction within Africa. With an array of services like remittance, multi-currency wallets, airtime, bill payments, and stock features, straitPay aims to cater to individuals both in the diaspora and in numerous African countries.
The StartUp Awards were established in 2022 to celebrate the success of startups throughout the UK and acknowledge their contributions to job creation, innovation, and prosperity in the entrepreneurial landscape. The London finals took place at Big Penny Social, where startups from various industries were recognized for their outstanding accomplishments.
Helen Bierton, Chief Banking Officer at Starling Bank, commended all the London Startup finalists and winners for their entrepreneurial spirit. She cited the diverse range of businesses present, from biotech companies developing groundbreaking insect control solutions to carpentry services, traveling pop-up stores, and mobile apps connecting dog owners with trusted dog walkers. Bierton expressed her admiration for London’s vibrant startup ecosystem, which accommodates such a wide variety of ventures.
Professor Dylan Jones-Evans OBE, the creator of the awards, highlighted the vital role of new businesses in job creation, innovation, and prosperity across the UK. He acknowledged the courage and vision displayed by entrepreneurs who ventured into the market, particularly during the fragile economic climate following the COVID-19 pandemic.
straitPay is set on its mission to expand its customer base globally and establish itself as a competitive player in the fintech and payments sector. The company has ambitious plans for growth and invites users to download the straitPay app, available on the Apple Store for iOS and the Play Store for Android. The app enables instant transactions with Africa, providing users with convenient financial services.