Promoting financial literacy and equipping individuals with the tools and knowledge to take ownership of their financial future are key enablers of individual security and sustained economic growth — key priorities under the U.S. G20 Presidency. However, global data illustrates large gaps in financial literacy — the Global Findex 2025 found that 33–59 percent of unbanked adults across all regions reported they would need help in using an account. The OECD/INFE 2023 International Survey of Adult Financial Literacy reports an average financial literacy score of only 60 (out of 100) across 39 countries. As financial systems become more digital and complex, financial literacy and capability is critical so that individuals can navigate decisions, manage risks, and use financial services effectively.
During the World Bank–IMF Spring Meetings, Secretary Bessent announced the United States’ intent to sponsor, with CGAP as the implementing partner, a Financial Literacy Solutions Sprint. The Sprint aims to identify and accelerate technology- and data-enabled solutions that strengthen financial literacy and improve financial outcomes.
Focus
The Sprint seeks to shift the focus from abstract learning towards practical, behaviorally informed financial literacy solutions that can be deployed and scaled through financial services and digital platforms. These solutions are expected to strengthen financial capability and improve outcomes across four key dimensions —people’s ability to manage day-to-day finances, withstand financial and economic shocks, pursue opportunities, and feel confident and in control of their financial lives.
Approach
The Tech Sprint will follow a structured, competitive process:
- Launch Call for Proposals (Mid-May 2026): Open to innovators across countries participating under the U.S. G20 Presidency. The call will go live on CGAP.org.
- Shortlisting (June 2026): High-potential teams selected based on user value, feasibility, and scalability.
- Innovation Sprint (July – August 2026): Shortlisted teams refine solutions and define pathways to scale, culminating in the selection of winning teams.
- Technical Assistance (September – December 2026): Winning teams receive targeted support from CGAP to test and scale solutions.
Winning teams will be invited to showcase their solutions at the World Bank–IMF Annual Meetings in Bangkok (October 2026) — providing a global platform to engage with policymakers, financial institutions, technology leaders, and development partners. The initiative will also generate practical insights on what works in strengthening financial literacy and capability at scale.
