NatWest Launches Fintech Growth Programme to Drive Innovation in Payments

NatWest Group is launching its inaugural Fintech Growth Programme, offering UK- based fintech startups a great opportunity to collaborate with one of the UK’s most established high-street banks. This initiative aims to empower fintechs to scale sustainably, leveraging NatWest’s resources, expertise, and expansive networks. The Fintech Growth Programme is aligned with NatWest’s ambition to lead the future of banking by addressing pressing challenges in the payments space. Through this initiative NatWest is focusing on collaboration to develop solutions that could shape the future of financial services. The programme will select five pre-Series A fintech startups based in the UK, specifically those addressing critical issues in payments. Over a 10-week period, the chosen fintechs will participate in workshops, receive personalised mentoring and coaching, and work directly with NatWest’s Innovation team to co-create innovative solutions.

David Grunwald, Director of NatWest Innovation, highlighted the program’s impact on customers and the innovation economy:

“This programme lays a pathway to create better outcomes for our customers.  Working this closely with fintechs and UK entrepreneurs strengthens our ability to be future focused, while supporting the growth of the innovation economy. “ Mark Brant, Chief Payments Officer at NatWest, emphasized the importance of collaboration: “Innovation and collaboration are fundamental to growth, especially in a challenging commercial environment. This programme champions NatWest’sinnovation by working with fintechs to co-create solutions to lead the future of banking.”

The programme provides fintechs with access to:
• A Curated Scale-Up Curriculum: Designed by Aspire, a consultancy specialising in startup growth, the curriculum will deliver tailored workshops and guidance to help fintechs refine and scale their solutions.
• Senior NatWest Decision Makers: Participants will engage with key figures within NatWest, gaining invaluable insights and feedback.
• A Collaborative Network: The programme drives connections among peers, industry experts, and NatWest’s dedicated Innovation function.

NatWest is calling on innovative fintechs to seize this opportunity. If you’re a pre- Series A UK-based fintech startup looking to take your business to the next stage, this is your chance to collaborate with one of the UK’s leading financial institutions.

To learn more and apply, visit the NatWest website.