Base Accelerator Seeks Pre-Seed Companies for AI-Powered FinTech

Base, Coinbase's Ethereum layer-2 network, is launching its eighth startup accelerator program, targeting pre-seed companies building AI agents, trading, payments, and financing products. The eight-week virtual program, called Batches 004, will select 10 startups for a $100,000 investment from the Base Ecosystem Fund.

The program's focus on AI agents reflects the growing importance of decentralized finance (DeFi) infrastructure, with Bronheim stating that 'blockchains are the native financial rails for AI' and will soon drive more activity than humans. Base is seeking founders with fintech backgrounds to bring new financial products to its network.

The selected teams will participate in an eight-week virtual program with a dedicated advisor and weekly support, receive help building visibility across the Base ecosystem, and present to investors at a Demo Day in New York in November.