FinTech North Returns to Manchester: A Spotlight on Innovation and Growth
FinTech North is set to make a significant impact in Manchester next week, on Tuesday, November 25th, with its highly anticipated annual conference. This event aims to illuminate the city’s burgeoning role within the UK’s fintech ecosystem, showcasing its rapid development and influence.
Venue and Atmosphere
Hosted at the historic Whitworth Hall at the University of Manchester, the conference promises to be a vibrant gathering of industry leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts. The venue itself, steeped in history and academic prestige, provides an inspiring backdrop for discussions that will shape the future of financial technology.
A Star-Studded Lineup
This year’s agenda features an impressive roster of speakers from renowned organizations such as Starling, the Bank of England, Mastercard, Barclays, and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). In addition to these established names, the conference will spotlight some of the North West’s most exciting fintech startups and scaleups, fostering a spirit of collaboration and innovation.
Key Themes of the Conference
Delegates can expect to engage in discussions around several pivotal themes that are shaping the fintech landscape:
- Regulation as a Driver of Innovation: Exploring how regulatory frameworks can foster innovation rather than stifle it.
- Banking Transformation: Delving into the ongoing changes in banking practices and customer expectations.
- Risk and Resilience: Understanding the importance of risk management in an increasingly digital world.
- Global Payments Landscape: Examining how Greater Manchester is positioning itself as a leading hub in this rapidly evolving area.
Women in FinTech Spotlight
A dedicated segment of the conference will focus on female founders and leaders in the fintech sector. This initiative aims to shed light on female representation within the workforce and discuss the opportunities and barriers related to access to funding. By highlighting these issues, the conference seeks to promote diversity and inclusion within the industry.
Support from Key Sponsors
This year’s conference is proudly supported by headline sponsor OakNorth, a Manchester-based digital bank that has made significant strides in the fintech space. With over £12.5 billion in lending and successful expansion into the US market, OakNorth exemplifies the potential for regional fintech growth. As a dedicated business bank, it plays a crucial role in driving economic development across the UK.
Manchester’s Fintech Landscape
The timing of this conference is particularly significant for Manchester’s fintech journey. The city is now home to 175 fintech firms, making it the fastest-growing fintech cluster in the UK. Earlier this year, Manchester also made its debut in the top 100 of the world’s most innovative clusters, according to the World Intellectual Property Organisation’s 2025 rankings. This recognition underscores the city’s commitment to fostering innovation and attracting talent.
Insights from Industry Leaders
Joe Roche, general manager at FinTech North, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “Over the eight years we’ve been bringing our conference to Manchester, we’ve seen the city truly step into its own as a powerhouse of fintech talent and innovation.” He emphasized that the sector now contributes over £1 billion to the regional economy, highlighting Manchester’s transformation into a vibrant hub for startups, scaleups, and global fintech brands.
Anticipation for a Sell-Out Event
With a growing interest in fintech and the promise of insightful discussions, this year’s event is expected to sell out. Roche encourages anyone interested in the sector to secure their tickets early to avoid disappointment.
Collaborative Partnerships
This year’s conference is delivered in partnership with several key players in the fintech space, including Pulsant, Mastercard, Cyber Alchemy, Attenda, Intercash, Barclays, RSM, and Bruntwood SciTech. These collaborations enhance the event’s credibility and provide attendees with a wealth of knowledge and networking opportunities.
Registration and Agenda
For those eager to participate in this landmark event, full agenda details and registration information can be found here. This is an opportunity not to be missed for anyone passionate about the future of fintech in Manchester and beyond.