The West of England is the UK’s leading FinTech hub outside of London, with a thriving ecosystem of over 90 FinTech firms contributing £398.7 million to the UK economy (source: Bristol & Bath, SW FinTech Ecosystem Report 2023). From established players like Hargreaves Lansdown to a growing community of innovative startups, the region is a driving force in financial services innovation.
Our reputation continues to attract national and international investment, with firms relocating or expanding here from London and overseas - including Pismo (Brazil), Backbase (Netherlands), and Equisoft (Canada) (Whitecap Report).
We can tell you more about the world-leading expertise in Fintech making a home in the region, and offer you unique guidance, connections, and support if you're considering getting set up here.
Talent is key, with a strong pool supported by world-class universities and an existing workforce of 61,000 in financial services and FinTech. The University of the West of England offers a FinTech MSc, and nearly 28,200 students were enrolled in relevant fields in 2020/21. The West of England accounts for 47% of FinTech firms in the South West, supporting over 7,000 jobs.
Bristol’s tech sector generated £7.9 billion in turnover, with FinTech thriving amid rapid digitisation. The region is supported by accelerators like the NatWest FinTech Accelerator and the upcoming FinTech West Accelerator, powered by SETsquared, as is home to major players such as FTSE 100 firm Hargreaves Lansdown, and FinTech unicorn Pismo, now acquired by Visa.
"We are so pleased to have made Bristol our home base. IBB has been instrumental in helping us get set up and we look forward to a continuing, fruitful partnership as we ramp up our plans for the future."
Download the latest facts and figures and find out why we are a leading hub for Fintech in the UK. Tap into our extensive network and learn why our region is thriving. If you're considering setting up here, we offer expert guidance, connections, and support.
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