The Investment Association (IA) has launched its latest initiative through Engine, its specialist FinTech accelerator and innovation hub for the investment management industry. The new, three-month Advanced Access Initiative is an accelerator programme specifically designed for advanced stage FinTechs looking to provide their services to investment managers.

OpenFin, a unified workspace for enterprise productivity used by over 90% of major global banks, and FINBOURNE Technology, a provider of cloud-based investment data management software, have been selected to take part in the first cohort of the Advanced Access Initiative.

The launch of the Advance Access Initiative complements Engine’s two existing programmes –  SPARKS, which supports the advancement of pre-seed and early-stage solutions, and the Engine Innovator Programme that supports post seed/series A FinTechs. Engine’s suite now champions FinTech firms from the initial first steps and ideation through to maturity and expansion.

The Advanced Access Initiative concludes at the IA’s EmTech Global conference on March 7, where the seventh cohort of the Engine Innovator Programme will also be announced.

In its sixth year, EmTech Global 2024 brings together investment management industry leaders and technology experts from around the globe to discuss innovations and opportunities affecting the sector. With sessions exploring tokenisation, AI, quantum and space tech, it provides valuable insight for leaders, technologists and practitioners. Keynote speakers including The Lord Mayor Michael Minelli and Charlotte Crosswell, Chair of the CFIT.

Gillian Painter, Head of Membership and Engine, at the Investment Association, said:

“Innovation is crucial to provide the UK investment management industry with its competitive edge and enhance the customer experience. I’m therefore excited to announce the launch our Advanced Access Initiative to support maturing FinTech firms – working together, we look forward to building industry access, engagement and best practice”.

Chris Brook, Co-Founder and Head of Architecture at FINBOURNE Technology, said:

“FINBOURNE are pleased to take part in this initiative in its inaugural year. Collaborating with the Investment Association and its wider member base will enable us to demonstrate the value that our innovative solutions are bringing to the market, as we continue our mission to transform the financial industry”.

Vicky Sanders, Chief Digital Officer, at OpenFin, said:

“We are delighted to join the IA Engine Advanced Access initiative and look forward to working more closely with the investment management industry. New technology has great potential to benefit investment managers, with our tried-and-tested solution enabling firms to boost their enterprise productivity through better workspace management, app utilisation and workflow automation.”

Source: IA