A new Responsible AI Innovation Call is offering UK fintechs and technology companies the chance to collaborate with major financial institutions on real-world challenges and pitch for grant funding of up to £50,000.
The Financial Regulation Innovation Lab (FRIL) Responsible AI Innovation Call supports businesses developing technology solutions that promote the safe, transparent and responsible use of artificial intelligence in financial services. Successful applicants will take part in an innovation challenge led by FinTech Scotland in partnership with the University of Strathclyde and funded by Scottish Enterprise.
Companies selected for the programme will collaborate with major financial institutions and professional services organisations to explore industry challenges, test their solutions and identify potential routes to market. Participants will also have the opportunity to pitch for grant funding of up to £50,000 to further develop their solutions.
The Responsible AI challenge focuses on solutions that can help financial services organisations improve efficiency and decision-making while addressing issues such as fairness, governance, transparency, accountability and regulatory compliance.
Applications for the funding call close at 11:59pm on Friday 31 July 2026, with successful applicants due to be notified by Wednesday 5 August 2026. It is free to apply.
Eligibility is open to UK-registered companies that are developing innovative responsible AI solutions for the financial services sector. Businesses cannot apply for funding for any procurement, commercial, business development or supply chain activity with any Russian or Belarusian entity as lead or subcontractor, including goods or services originating from a Russian or Belarusian source.
The programme is aimed at fintech businesses, technology companies developing AI solutions, start-ups, scale-ups, SMEs and innovation-led businesses working in financial services technology.
FRIL’s Responsible AI Innovation Call is led by FinTech Scotland in partnership with the University of Strathclyde and funded by Scottish Enterprise. A series of online drop-in clinics is available for prospective applicants, with sessions scheduled at 3pm on Thursday 2 July, 1pm on Thursday 16 July and 2pm on Monday 27 July 2026.
Further information and application details are available via the FinTech Scotland website.
