Welsh Startups Set to Compete for Funding in Front of Prominent Investors

Emerging fintech companies from across Wales are preparing to showcase their innovations at the inaugural Wales Fintech Festival, with a live pitch competition set to take place on June 3, 2026. The event, hosted by Innovate Finance and held at the Swansea Building Society Arena, will feature startups vying for investment in front of venture capitalists, industry stakeholders, and an expert judging panel.

The highlight of this year’s competition is the inclusion of Henry Engelhardt, founder of Admiral Group, as one of the judges. Engelhardt brings extensive experience in building scalable financial services businesses to the evaluation process.

Judging Panel Highlights:

• Henry Engelhardt - Founder, Admiral Group
• Kevin Smith - Venture Comet
• Siwan Rees - NatWest
• Rachel Hillier - Capital Law
• Jerry Main - Philip Hare & Associates
• Yan Manka - Mastercard

The winning startups will receive a comprehensive support package including:

• Complimentary Innovate Finance membership
• Speaking slot and tickets for the 2027 Global Summit
• Direct investor matchmaking opportunities
• Targeted marketing campaign

“Wales has a strong track record of building innovative businesses,” Engelhardt commented, “and pitch sessions like this provide essential visibility and connections for entrepreneurs to advance their ideas.” Sarah Jones, CEO of FinTech Wales, emphasized that the competition underscores Wales’ growing reputation as a fintech destination.

The festival program will also feature keynote addresses from industry leaders like Anne Boden MBE, founder of Starling Bank, addressing topics such as AI efficiencies and financial technology solutions. With over 200 member companies, FinTech Wales aims to establish the nation as an internationally recognized hub for financial innovation.