How to Open a Stripe Account in Nigeria (Legally)

Need to collect payments globally but stuck because Stripe doesn’t support Nigeria? Here’s the legal, step-by-step path Nigerians are using in 2025 to open a fully verified US Stripe account – without breaking rules, buying black-market logins, or risking shutdown.

To open a US Stripe account from Nigeria, you’ll need the following:

• A registered US LLC or Sole Proprietorship (Wyoming and Delaware are top picks)
• An EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS
• A US phone number for verification and compliance (e.g., from PressOne Africa)
• A US business address (via a virtual mailbox or registered agent)
• A US bank account with fintechs like Mercury or Wise that support non-residents
• A solid understanding of Stripe’s verification process and what red flags to avoid

 

This process isn’t just theory – it’s already working for Nigerian freelancers, digital course creators, SaaS founders, and eCommerce businesses.

In fact, Stripe processed $1.1 trillion in payments in 2023 alone, and global founders are finding smart, compliant ways to get access – even from “unsupported” countries.

If you’re building a real business, selling internationally, or using platforms like Gumroad, Shopify, or WooCommerce, then setting up a legit US Stripe account isn’t optional – it’s your unlock for global scale, business trust, and seamless payments.

Keep reading to get the full breakdown – with steps, tools, legal tips, and the hidden pitfalls most Nigerians miss when trying to get Stripe to work.

 

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Who This Guide is For

This guide is for Nigerian entrepreneurs, freelancers, digital creators, and startup founders who need a legit way to collect payments from global customers using Stripe, but are stuck because Nigeria isn’t on Stripe’s supported countries list.

If you’re actively looking for how to make money online in Nigeria, opening a Stripe account is a strategic starting point for tapping into global income streams.

More specifically, it’s perfect for:

• Freelancers offering services on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or direct client contracts who want a trusted payment gateway that works globally.
• Online course creators using Teachable, Gumroad, or Kajabi and need a US-based Stripe account to monetize their audience.
• Ecommerce business owners selling via Shopify, WooCommerce, or Etsy who need Stripe’s robust checkout experience to increase conversions.
• SaaS founders & tech startups building for a global market and need a reliable, long-term solution for subscription payments and recurring billing.
• Nigerians in the diaspora who want to manage their business structures legally from Nigeria while accessing US financial tools like Mercury, Wise, or Relay.
• Growth-focused side hustlers scaling small projects who are tired of unreliable workarounds, banned PayPal logins, or local payment providers with endless limits.

 

If you’ve ever Googled “how to get Stripe to work in Nigeria”, felt overwhelmed by legal jargon, burned by shady agents selling fake accounts, or frustrated that you can build a global business but not collect dollars easily – this guide is your step-by-step solution.

According to the World Bank, remittances and digital payments from abroad into Nigeria surpassed $20 billion in 2023. The demand for cross-border payment tools like Stripe is growing – and Nigerians are finding smarter, compliant ways to tap in.

You’ll learn exactly what it takes to register a US LLC, get an EIN, set up a US bank account, secure a virtual US phone number from providers like PressOne Africa, and configure your Stripe account without guesswork, grey areas, or fear of account bans.

If you’re serious about building a business that gets paid globally and grows legitimately from Nigeria, this is for you.

 

Why Stripe Doesn’t Work in Nigeria (And What That Means for You)

If you’ve tried to open a Stripe account using a Nigerian address, you already know the answer: Stripe doesn’t support Nigeria. Not today. Not natively. Not yet.

Despite the growth of tech talent and cross-border businesses in Nigeria, Stripe has not added Nigeria to its list of supported countries. That means if your Stripe account is tied to a Nigerian entity, bank, or phone number, it will eventually get flagged – or worse, shut down – even if you pass initial verification.

 

So, why the block?

Stripe’s expansion strategy is risk-first and regulation-driven. The platform must comply with KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) laws in every country it operates in.

And due to complex financial compliance issues – including forex volatility, fraud rates, and unclear business frameworks – Nigeria remains off-limits in their native roll-out roadmap for international payments across countries like the United States.

Stripe currently supports just 46 countries – with Nigeria only having an extended network on Paystack for payments that are just within Africa, despite being Africa’s largest digital economy.

 

What this means for you

If you’re a Nigerian business owner, freelancer, or startup founder selling services or digital products outside Nigeria, this limitation creates major friction:

• You can’t accept credit/debit card payments from global clients through Stripe.
• You’re stuck with expensive or unstable alternatives – like third-party agents, PayPal hacks, or unverifiable bank integrations.
• You risk losing business from clients who insist on paying via Stripe or platforms that require it (e.g. Gumroad, Teachable, Shopify).
• And worst of all, you stay invisible in the global commerce ecosystem.

That’s why many Nigerian entrepreneurs now use legal, compliant workarounds – like registering a US-based LLC, getting an EIN from the IRS, securing a USA number, and opening a US bank account via Mercury or Wise.

These steps allow you to operate as a US business entity and activate a verified Stripe account that works flawlessly.

The rest of this guide walks you through how to do it right – step by step, without getting scammed, flagged, or locked out of your hard-earned income.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Open a US Stripe Account from Nigeria

Setting up a US Stripe account from Nigeria can seem overwhelming – until you break it down into clear, legal, step-by-step actions.

Many Nigerians who monetize YouTube, sell courses, or freelance use Stripe alongside other internet income opportunities.

Stripe’s backend isn’t looking at your passport. It’s looking at your business entity, your tax ID, your phone number, and your banking infrastructure. When you align those pieces correctly, Stripe doesn’t care that you’re operating from Lagos or Abuja.

Let’s walk through it.

 

Step 1: Register a US-Based LLC

To use Stripe as a non-US resident, you’ll need a US-registered company. The most popular and flexible option? A Limited Liability Company (LLC).

• Best states: Wyoming and Delaware (low fees, no state tax, easy online filing).
• You can do this online in under 20 minutes using services like Firstbase, Doola, or ZenBusiness.
• Typical cost: $100-$500 depending on the service.

 

Step 2: Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS

The EIN is your business’s US tax ID – and it’s required to activate your Stripe account and open a US business bank account.

• You can get one by submitting IRS Form SS-4.
• Most LLC formation services will help you apply automatically.
• Timeframe: 7 – 15 days (sometimes longer if applying manually).

Important: Make sure your LLC name matches the EIN application exactly, or it may be rejected.

 

Step 3: Set Up a US Business Bank Account

Stripe requires that you connect a US-based bank account for payouts.

The good news? You don’t need to fly to the US.

Use fintech platforms that support non-US founders:

• Mercury – No monthly fees, perfect for startups
• Wise – Great for multi-currency accounts
• Relay – Clean UI, good support
• Payoneer – Acceptable but sometimes Stripe has issues verifying

You’ll need to submit your EIN + LLC documents + ID (passport).

 

Step 4: Get a Virtual US Phone Number

Stripe requires a US-based phone number for verification and account recovery. This is a step where many Nigerians go wrong by using VoIP numbers that get flagged.

Get a verified, clean virtual US number from a business-grade provider like:

• PressOne Africa – Offers compliant, high-quality virtual US numbers with SMS and call capabilities.
• Google Voice is not recommended unless you’re already in the US.

This number is what Stripe uses to validate your business presence in the US.

 

Step 5: Create Your Stripe Account

Now that you’ve set up your foundation, it’s time to open your Stripe account:

• Go to https://dashboard.stripe.com/register
• Enter your LLC name as your business
• Add your EIN
• Use your US virtual number and US business address (from LLC registration)
• Add your US bank account details
• Upload a valid government-issued ID (e.g. Nigerian passport)

Side Note: Use your real name and accurate info. Stripe’s system is robust and cross-checks your business identity with third-party databases.

 

Step 6: Verify and Go Live

After completing your setup:

• Stripe will typically verify your business in 24 – 48 hours
• If needed, they may request further documentation (LLC docs, EIN letter, bank verification)
• Once verified, you’ll be able to create live payment links, integrations, checkout flows, etc.

You now have a fully operational US Stripe account – compliant and scalable, without hacks or shady agents.

 

What Makes This Work?

What you’ve done here isn’t just about beating Stripe’s geo-restrictions.

You’ve created a US business infrastructure:

• A registered LLC
• A real EIN
• A verified bank
• A US phone number via PressOne Africa
• A Stripe account built to last

This setup not only enables Stripe – it opens the door to other tools like PayPal Business, Square, Amazon Seller Central, US-based software deals, and investor confidence.

In other words, you’ve made your business global, without leaving Nigeria.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Opening Stripe from Nigeria

Opening a Stripe account as a Nigerian entrepreneur isn’t just about what you do – it’s also about what not to do. One wrong move can get your account flagged, limited, or permanently banned.

Below are some of the most common and costly missteps you’ll want to avoid:

 

1. Using Fake or Inconsistent Business Information

Stripe doesn’t just ask for your details – they verify them across databases like LexisNexis, IRS records, and bank KYC systems.

• Mismatch between your LLC name and EIN? Red flag.
• Using a fake US address or one already blacklisted? Suspicious activity.
• Registering a business you never intend to use? Violates Stripe’s terms.

Stripe’s risk engine is built to spot patterns of non-legitimate use, especially from IPs and regions with high fraud attempts.

 

2. Using a Personal or VoIP Phone Number (like Google Voice)

Stripe requires a valid business phone number based in the US for verification and ongoing account recovery. This is not optional.

• Google Voice, TextNow, and similar services are flagged and often rejected.
• Some even block SMS verification entirely.
• Worse: They’re recycled numbers that might be linked to previous fraudulent accounts.

Use a dedicated virtual US phone number from a trusted provider like PressOne Africa that offers clean, business-compliant lines built for platforms like Stripe.

 

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3. Accessing Stripe from Unreliable VPNs or Suspicious IPs

Many users panic and turn to free or unknown VPNs to spoof their location when accessing Stripe.

This is a massive mistake.

• Stripe tracks IP reputation, geolocation, and access history.
• Inconsistent logins from Lagos today, New York tomorrow = account flagged.
• Even if your setup is legit, your behavior can still trigger a manual review.

If you must use a VPN, use a dedicated static IP from a reputable provider – and stick to one consistent location.

 

4. Uploading Edited or Low-Quality Documents

In an attempt to “force” approval, some users submit:

• Cropped EIN letters
• Pixelated scans of passports
• LLC documents downloaded from shady sites
• Or worse – Photoshopped IDs

Stripe uses OCR (Optical Character Recognition) and AI pattern detection to review your uploads. These tactics don’t just fail – they get you permanently banned.

Only submit clean, verifiable, original documents tied to your business.

 

5. Connecting a Non-US Bank Account

Stripe requires a US-based bank account for payouts.

Trying to connect your Nigerian domiciliary or Naira account? It won’t work.

• Nigerian banks aren’t supported in Stripe’s payout infrastructure.
• Even some global platforms (like Payoneer) get flagged depending on how they’re configured.

Stick with platforms like Mercury, Relay, or Wise Business – which are built to support global founders with US LLCs.

 

6. Not Setting Up a Real Business (Just “Doing It for Stripe”)

Many Nigerians set up an LLC just to get Stripe – no plan, no product, no legit business.

• Stripe’s system now tracks activity vs. entity – if you have no revenue, website, or business signals within 13 months, your account might be closed.
• It’s not about gaming the system. It’s about building a real, sustainable, global business.

Stripe’s goal is to support legitimate entrepreneurs – not workaround attempts.

Build a real offering: SaaS, consulting, digital products, e-commerce, or even dropshipping. Something Stripe can recognize.

 

7. Ignoring Customer Support Emails or Review Requests

Stripe often sends follow-up emails for:

• Address verification
• Clarification of product type
• Identity or business ownership proof

If you ignore these or reply late, they might suspend your account.

Always monitor the email tied to your Stripe account. Treat Stripe’s support like your customer – it’s a relationship, not a formality.

Stripe wants to support global founders – and they’re actively investing in infrastructure to do just that.

But trust is built with transparency, compliance, and consistency. If your approach starts with “how do I trick Stripe?”, you’ve already lost.

If instead you build the right legal and business foundation, supported by the right tools (like a verified US number from PressOne), Stripe becomes a gateway – not a gatekeeper – to your growth.

 

Cost Breakdown: How Much It Really Takes to Set Up Stripe Legally

Opening a US Stripe account from Nigeria the right way isn’t free – but it’s far more affordable than the consequences of doing it the wrong way.

While some blog posts and Telegram channels promote “shortcuts” using fake documents or unreliable third-party setups, these often lead to account deactivations, frozen funds, or even lifetime bans.

A legal, long-term Stripe setup built on real business credibility requires a few upfront investments – but each one serves a specific purpose.

Here’s what a compliant, frictionless setup looks like – plus the costs you should realistically expect:

 

1. Virtual US Business Address

A physical business address in the US is one of Stripe’s minimum requirements. It’s used for your EIN registration, bank account setup, and business incorporation.

• Why it matters: Stripe doesn’t accept P.O. boxes or just “any” US address. They verify legitimacy using USPS databases.
• Cost: ₦10,000/month (approx: $6/mo) from PressOne Africa

 

2. US LLC Registration (Usually in Delaware or Wyoming)

Creating a Limited Liability Company (LLC) gives you a legally recognized business in the United States, which is necessary for getting an EIN and opening a business bank account.

• Why it matters: Stripe is a payment processor for businesses. Registering an LLC is the legal pathway to accessing financial infrastructure in the US.
• Cost: $100 – $500 (one-time state filing + service fee)
• Recurring Costs: Annual state fee ($50 – $100) depending on state

Delaware and Wyoming are popular choices for LLCs registered by non-residents, thanks to their low fees and business-friendly laws.

 

3. Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Issued by the IRS, your EIN is like a Social Security Number for your business. It’s required for taxes, Stripe setup, and your US bank account.

• Why it matters: You need an EIN before you can open a US bank account or activate a Stripe account for your LLC.
• Cost: $0 if you apply directly via the IRS (can take 1-3 weeks), or $50-$100 if using a third-party service for faster processing.

 

4. US Virtual Phone Number

Stripe verifies your account using a phone number that matches your business location. A Nigerian line won’t work.

• Why it matters: You need a verifiable US-based number that works for call and SMS verification.
• Cost: ₦15,000/month using trusted platforms like PressOne Africa (ideal for business-grade use).

 

5. US Business Bank Account (or Alternatives)

Stripe needs to send your payments somewhere. A US bank account (or a fintech like Mercury) is the safest and cleanest route.

• Why it matters: You won’t get payouts without it. Most deactivated accounts stem from poor banking setups.
• Cost: $0 – Most fintechs like Mercury offer free business accounts if your LLC and EIN are valid.

 

6. Domain Name + Professional Email

Using a Gmail or Yahoo address for your Stripe business raises red flags.

• Why it matters: A branded domain adds credibility and helps prevent Stripe from flagging your business as “non-serious.”
• Cost:
  • Domain: $10-$20/year
  • Email hosting (e.g., Google Workspace): $6/month

 

Total Estimated Cost (Upfront)

Item	Estimated Cost
Virtual US Address	₦10,000/mo (approx: $6/mo)
LLC Registration (one-time)	$200
EIN (with service)	$75
US Phone Number	₦ 15,000/mo (approx: $9/mo)
Domain & Email	$20 + $6/mo
TOTAL	~$320-$400

 

Think of This as a Business Setup – Not Just a Hack

This is not just about getting Stripe. It’s about building the foundation of a real online business that can accept international payments, open merchant accounts, build customer trust, and scale.

When done properly, you’re not just getting paid – you’re getting access to an infrastructure that supports SaaS, dropshipping, freelancing, and countless other global income streams.

And compared to the potential revenue you can generate through Stripe-enabled platforms, a $400 setup is a fraction of what you’d lose to account closures or failed verifications later on.

Let’s be clear: cheap hacks create fragile systems. If you want to operate globally, charge clients in USD, and build a business that Stripe (and customers) can trust – you’ll need to treat your setup like a real business from day one.

 

Why You Need a US Phone Number for Stripe (And How to Get One in Minutes)

Let’s get one thing straight: Stripe doesn’t just ask for a US phone number because it’s a formality – it’s a verification checkpoint in their fraud prevention system, and one of the strongest identity signals Stripe uses to determine whether your business is legitimate, and more importantly, US-based.

If you’re trying to open a US Stripe account from Nigeria, your biggest challenge isn’t just filling out forms – it’s building digital trust across multiple signals.

And your business phone number is one of the first touchpoints Stripe uses to validate the legitimacy of your operation.

 

Why Your Nigerian Line Won’t Cut It

You might be tempted to use your Nigerian MTN, Airtel, or Glo line during setup, or worse, skip the phone number field altogether. But here’s the issue:

• Stripe’s compliance checks are heavily aligned with your business’s geographic data – your phone number must match your country of incorporation (e.g., Delaware or Wyoming).
• A Nigerian phone number automatically breaks that consistency, potentially flagging your account for manual review or outright rejection.

This inconsistency is one of the top reasons new Stripe accounts created from outside the US are either:

• Instantly blocked after onboarding, or
• Later disabled during their first payout attempt.

 

What a US Phone Number Actually Does for You

Here’s why having a valid, functional US phone number isn’t just about appeasing Stripe:

• Verification: Receive SMS or phone call codes during Stripe signup and security checks.
• Consistency Across Docs: Your US number appears on your LLC paperwork, invoices, and domain-based email – tightening your trust signals.
• Customer Credibility: If you’re running a SaaS, freelancing, or dropshipping business, having a +1 number boosts your brand perception instantly.
• Payout Protection: If Stripe ever needs to contact you for KYC (Know Your Customer) reasons, they expect to reach you on a real US line.

 

How to Get a US Phone Number from Nigeria in Minutes

Getting a US phone number used to be complicated – routing VoIP apps through VPNs, using apps that don’t accept verification codes, or dealing with providers that vanish overnight.

But that’s changed.

PressOne Africa now lets you:

• Set up a real US phone number from Nigeria
• Make and receive calls and SMS in seconds
• Use your number for Stripe, PayPal, EIN registration, and more
• Manage your calls via mobile app or web dashboard
• Get support that understands both US regulations and Nigerian context

And because they’re built for African entrepreneurs expanding globally, you’re not just getting a number – you’re getting a business communication system that scales with you.

Pro Tip: Avoid free apps like TextNow or Google Voice – they’re often flagged by Stripe’s internal fraud detection algorithms or don’t support proper business use.

When setting up your Stripe account legally from Nigeria, a real US number isn’t an optional “add-on” – it’s one of the first signals that shows Stripe you mean business.

More importantly, it’s one of the cheapest and fastest assets you can secure, yet it can make the difference between account approval or suspension.

Think of it like this: In Stripe’s eyes, your phone number is your handshake. Make sure it’s a firm one.

 

FAQs About Opening Stripe in Nigeria

 

Can Nigerians legally use Stripe?

No – not directly. Stripe does not officially support Nigeria as a country of residence for account holders. That means you cannot open a Stripe account using a Nigerian address, Nigerian phone number, or Nigerian bank account.

However, if you register a legitimate US-based business entity (like an LLC), obtain a US EIN (Employer Identification Number), use a real US number, and connect a compatible US bank account, you can legally open a Stripe account as a non-resident.

 

Do I need to live in the US to open a Stripe account?

No. Thousands of non-US residents – including freelancers, SaaS founders, dropshippers, and digital marketers from Nigeria – run fully compliant US Stripe accounts from outside the US.

All you need is:

• A registered US LLC (Delaware and Wyoming are popular)
• An EIN from the IRS
• A US phone number
• A US-based business bank account (e.g., Mercury, Wise, Relay)
• A matching business email and website/domain

 

Will Stripe know I’m logging in from Nigeria?

Yes, Stripe can detect your IP address, device location, and browser fingerprint. But that doesn’t automatically mean your account will be flagged, especially if:

• Your LLC and EIN are valid
• Your documents match your business location
• You’re using a real US phone number and bank account

What matters more to Stripe is the consistency and legitimacy of your digital identity across all submitted information.

Inconsistencies – like submitting a US address but logging in with a Nigerian number and Gmail-raise fraud red flags.

 

Can I use a VPN to access Stripe?

Technically yes, but don’t rely on VPNs to “hide” your location. Stripe may flag unusual login behavior. Instead:

• Use a clean browser (no autofill or Nigerian extensions)
• Ensure your business information is fully aligned
• Avoid switching locations frequently or sharing your login with others

Remember, VPNs don’t fix document mismatches. They’re not a hack – they’re a layer of privacy at best.

 

How much does it cost to set up a Stripe-ready US business from Nigeria?

Here’s a rough breakdown:

• US LLC Registration: $50 – $150 (DIY) or $300-$500 (via an agent)
• EIN Application: Free if DIY, $75 – $150 via agents
• US Phone Number & US Address: ₦25,000/month (via PressOne Africa)
• US Business Bank Account: Free with Mercury, Wise, or Relay
• Domain + Email: ~$20/year for domain + $6/month for Google Workspace

So expect to invest around ₦150,000 – ₦400,000 (one-time + small monthly fees), depending on how much you DIY.

 

What happens if I don’t meet Stripe’s KYC requirements?

Your account may:

• Be temporarily restricted until you submit additional documents
• Have payouts delayed
• Get permanently deactivated if fraud or policy violations are suspected

To avoid this:

• Ensure your US address, phone number, and business details are real and consistent
• Use business documents that reflect your US LLC – not Nigerian identity

Pro Tip: Use your LLC operating agreement, EIN confirmation letter, and US phone utility bill as strong KYC documents.

 

Can I withdraw money from Stripe to my Nigerian bank account?

Not directly. Stripe requires a US bank account to receive payouts. From there, you can:

• Transfer funds from your US account (e.g., Mercury) to a Payoneer, Wise, or Domiciliary account in Nigeria
• Convert to Naira using platforms like Grey or Changera

Many Nigerian founders use Mercury + Payoneer or Wise + Flutterwave as their primary routes for withdrawals.

 

Can I use a virtual US number from free apps like TextNow?

Avoid it. Stripe often flags phone numbers from:

• TextNow
• Google Voice
• Free VoIP apps

They are associated with low-trust signals and may prevent verification codes from being delivered. A better choice is a business-grade solution like PressOne Africa, which:

• Provides real, billable US numbers
• Supports call/SMS verification
• Comes with business support and documentation

 

How long does it take to open a Stripe account from Nigeria?

If you’re fully prepared:

• LLC + EIN: 5 – 15 business days
• Phone + bank account: 1 – 2 days
• Stripe signup: Same day (if docs are ready)

So in total, you can be Stripe-ready in under 2 weeks.

 

What’s the #1 mistake most Nigerians make with Stripe?

Using inconsistent information – like mixing Nigerian phone numbers with US addresses, or skipping business verification steps.

And worse – relying on online hacks or outdated YouTube guides that don’t account for Stripe’s evolving compliance system.

A structured, legitimate setup – US LLC, EIN, phone number, bank account – makes all the difference between a sustainable Stripe business and a banned one.

 

Conclusion

Opening a Stripe account from Nigeria is not just a workaround – it’s a window into global opportunity. But if you stop at “just opening Stripe,” you’re limiting your potential to a single payment gateway. Pairing your Stripe setup with proven digital income strategies in Nigeria positions you for sustainable success.

The real play is building a borderless business infrastructure – a structure that earns, scales, and sustains revenue beyond the limits of geography, currency, or regulation.

Let’s be clear: the average Nigerian freelancer, digital product creator, or SaaS founder is no longer competing with local businesses – they’re competing with global peers.

Platforms like Stripe, Mercury, Wise, PressOne Africa, and even Delaware LLC structures are the digital building blocks of trust and access in this new economy.

But here’s the nuance: what separates the Stripe users who thrive from those who get shut down within months isn’t luck. It’s structure, compliance, and intention.

Yes, Stripe unlocks payments – but what about:

• Automating invoices and receipts?
• Setting up funnels to convert international traffic?
• Managing customer calls through a US business line?
• Using your EIN to get listed on platforms like Amazon, PayPal, or even Shopify?

These aren’t add-ons – they’re fundamentals for building a credible, international-facing brand.

The pull forces are clear: getting paid in USD, accessing global customers, earning trust with verified business credentials. But so are the push forces -Naira devaluation, PayPal restrictions, high chargeback risks, and unstable local payment systems.

And while your habits may include hustling through Twitter DMs or relying on WhatsApp for sales, the world you’re stepping into demands better systems: branded domains, scalable funnels, automated billing, and data-backed decisions.

Stripe isn’t the finish line – it’s the infrastructure to start playing at a higher level.

So don’t just open Stripe.

Open doors.

Build trust.

Scale like a global founder – because with the right setup, you already are.

 

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