The very first edition
We set out with a purpose to showcase the UK as the best place for global fintech investment during London Tech Week 2023.
The programme of events we delivered provided support to overseas scaleups looking to assess the UK as their next key market for international expansion and as well as UK based fintech scaleups looking to access the expertise and support they needed to fuel their next phase of growth.
Fintech Fringe Festival was a huge success for a few reasons, firstly we had the support of the ecosystem behind us and secondly through our focus on supporting fintech leaders across multiple business functions with content tailored specifically to them. We also had a magic bullet, working with industry maven Olivia Minnock who kindly volunteered to lead on content and programming.
Off the back of this success, what this all signalled was a real opportunity to continue to nurture and support fintech leaders with a regular programme of content designed to support growth, not only for their businesses but also on a personal level. This has led to the launch of a number of new initiatives including regular events series, workshops and masterclasses as well as a new platform to connect fintechs with experts.
We are delighted to be hosting a second edition at London Tech Week next year and thrilled to bits to confirm this year's event partners again.
I look forward to seeing you there.
Fintech Fringe Festival in numbers
Positive Feedback and Anticipation for the Future
Fintech Fringe's commitment to practical and pragmatic content resonated well with participants. The overwhelming feedback has already sparked inquiries about the next event, leaving attendees eagerly asking, "When's the next one?".
Ambitious Program Execution
The team executed an ambitious program, delivering seven events across four days with impressive attendance. The positive response from attendees underscored the value and relevance of the festival's content.
Ecosystem Support
Fintech Fringe flourished with the backing of a strong ecosystem. The collaborative efforts of partners and supporters played a crucial role in creating an environment conducive to innovation and growth. Special thanks goes out to our flagship partners: Innovate Finance, Level39, Rise, created by Barclays, London & Partners, Fintech Alliance and Tech Passport.
Commitment to Diversity
Recognizing the ongoing journey toward greater diversity, Fintech Fringe took pride in achieving a significant milestone – over half of the speakers were women. This commitment to diversity added depth and richness to the discussions.
Tailored Content for Fintech Leaders
The festival's success was amplified by its commitment to providing tailored content. Covering diverse business functions, from sales and marketing to fundraising, Fintech Fringe ensured that attendees gained comprehensive insights crucial for scaling their fintech ventures.
Guidance for Expansion into the UK
The program catered not only to UK-based fintech scaleups but also to overseas scaleups eyeing the UK for international expansion. Attendees received guidance and support essential for navigating the complexities of entering the UK market.
Diverse Speaker Lineup
Fintech Fringe boasted a stellar lineup of VIP speakers, including Lord Holmes, Rajesh Agrawal, Janine Hirt, and Ezechi Britton MBE. The event showcased both familiar faces and fresh perspectives from individuals deeply involved in building and supporting fintech ventures.
Interactive Sessions and Networking
Event hosts led interactive sessions, providing attendees with an insider's perspective on pressing issues faced by fintech leaders. Our non-commercial approach to programming facilitated meaningful connections, and iconic venues like Knotel's Old Sessions House and Barclays' Rise added a personal touch to networking opportunities.
Photos from a fun-packed 4 days
What people said
From the people who were there
“This has definitely got to be one of the go to events of #londontechweek”
“Really superb series of events that we have been delighted to support.”
“Congratulations Olivia and Calypso Harland for the inaugural year of Fintech Fringe! It was a great event and I look forward to next year.”
“It was nice to meet so many founders and members of the venture community - it completely undid any of the cynicism I felt towards the fintech venture landscape”
“Calypso Harland you made a difference to this year's London Tech Week - thank you to you and Olivia Minnock. Stellar work!”
“I really enjoyed hosting a panel yesterday at Fintech Fringe to talk about Strategic Investing. Thanks to Olivia Minnock and Calypso Harland for hosting an incredible week!”
“It has been a packed and inspiring 4 days expertly put together. I've met some amazing companies and their inspirational founders, and listened to powerful speakers.”
“Thank you for enabling such honest and open dialogue between founders and investors in such a wonderful location. You have created something very special!”
“A great range of speakers who provided actionable insights around the theme of scale and growth. Thank you to the organisers and the excellent speakers across the four days.”
Special thanks goes out to
It goes without saying that none of this would've been possible without the support of the following people and organisations. Our heartfelt thanks to you all, especially Olivia Minnock.
- Olivia Minnock
- Amelia Martinez
- Amy French
- Anna Gilmour
- Benedetta Schiavi
- Callum Mccormick
- CCgroup
- Claudio Zappetti
- Co:cubed
- Daniel Lowther
- David Butcher
- David Clough
- Dealroom
- Department for Business & Trade
- Fintech Alliance
- Fintech B2B Marketing
- Fintech Times
- Finextra
- Gemma Livermore
- GetPica
- Gleanin
- Grace Harrod
- Harrington Starr
- Innovate Finance
- Jack Jones
- Julia Streets
- Katie Sockett
- Knotel
- Lana Burdei
- Lemon Quarters
- Level39
- London & Partners
- London Tech Week
- Louis Williams
- Madhvi Mavadiya
- Magdalena Kron
- Maninder Paul
- Marie-Claire Frederick
- Matt Davies
- Nadia Edwards-Dashti
- Nura Haji
- Peter Cunane
- Rise , created by Barclays
- Roger Chasteauneuf
- Stefano Perciballi
- Streets Consulting
- Tech Passport
- Women of Fintech