How Wales is Creating a Global Stage for Fintechs

I’ve worked in the fintech industry for more than 15 years, and my definition of ‘fintech’ is broad. 

It’s the use of technology to advance financial services. That can mean small start-ups leveraging innovation to solve niche problems or large financial institutions using tech to improve and refine their offerings. Fintech is a diverse space, but at its core, it’s about improving financial services for consumers and businesses alike. 

At FinTech Wales, we exist to ensure that the fintech and financial services industries in Wales can scale, thrive, and succeed. As a not-for-profit, member-led organisation, our mission is to provide our members with the resources, connections, and support they need to grow. We do this by focusing on four key pillars: skills, funding, amplification, and ecosystem. These pillars are designed to address the unique challenges fintechs face and to open doors that might otherwise remain closed. 

The first pillar, skills, is crucial. We work closely with colleges, universities, and training providers to ensure that the fintech sector has access to the talent it needs. At the same time, we help those institutions understand the needs of the industry. It’s a two-way street: businesses tell us what they require, and we make sure the training pipeline can deliver. 

The second pillar is funding. Fintechs need access to capital to grow, and we act as a bridge between them and funding opportunities. We partner with organisations like the Development Bank of Wales, the British Business Bank and venture capitalists to ensure our members can access the funding they need to succeed. By hosting events and creating opportunities for fintechs to connect with investors, we’re helping to drive significant investment into the Welsh fintech scene. 

The third pillar, amplification, is about making sure the world knows about the exciting things happening in Welsh fintech. We shout loud and proud about the successes of our members, highlighting the innovation, creativity, and impact they bring to the financial services industry. Whether it’s through media, events, or partnerships, we are constantly working to put Wales on the map as a fintech hub. 

Finally, there’s ecosystem. We see ourselves as facilitators, bringing together all the brilliant minds in fintech and financial services to foster collaboration. We help our members build the networks they need to grow, whether that’s connecting them to potential partners, investors, or talent. By creating a cohesive and supportive ecosystem, we ensure that our members have the best possible chance of success. 

The fintech ecosystem in Wales has evolved rapidly over the past decade, and we are proud to be part of that journey. We’ve seen significant growth, with large institutions setting up bases here and innovative start-ups emerging regularly. The collaboration between companies, educational institutions, and investors has created an environment where innovation can flourish. 

But there’s still more work to be done. As we look to the future, we’re committed to continuing to build on the progress we’ve made. We want to see even more fintechs succeed in Wales, creating jobs, attracting investment, and contributing to the region’s growing reputation as a hub for financial services innovation. 

At FinTech Wales, we believe the future is bright for Welsh fintech. By focusing on skills, funding, amplification, and ecosystem, we’re laying the foundations for a thriving, vibrant industry that can compete on the global stage. Together, we’re making Wales a place where fintech can not only survive but truly thrive.