- Barclays announces the closure of its Rise fintech accelerator program by mid-2025.
- The decision reflects Barclays’ shift in strategy to focus on other innovation and growth areas.
What happened: Barclays announces closure of Rise fintech accelerator by mid-2025
Barclays has announced plans to wind down its Rise fintech accelerator program by mid-2025. Launched in 2015, Rise was designed to foster innovation in financial technology by providing startups with mentorship, resources, and a collaborative environment. Over the years, the program has supported numerous fintech companies, helping them scale and refine their offerings.
The decision to end the program comes as Barclays shifts its focus to other areas of strategic growth and innovation. While the bank remains committed to the fintech sector, it intends to explore new ways to engage with emerging technology and startup ecosystems beyond the Rise initiative.
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Why it’s important
The closure of the Rise program marks a significant moment for Barclays and the fintech sector. Rise has been instrumental in nurturing startups and driving innovation within financial technology, a space that continues to evolve rapidly. Its wind-down reflects the challenges traditional banks face in balancing direct support for innovation with broader strategic priorities.
This move also signals Barclays’ intention to reallocate resources toward other innovative projects, potentially reshaping its role in the fintech ecosystem. For the fintech community, this could mean exploring alternative partnerships and platforms to support growth and development.
