On 5 May 2022, the FCA updated its Innovation Pathways webpage by setting out who can apply.
Innovation Pathways is for:
- Authorised firms.
- Unauthorised firms that require authorisation.
- Technology providers that are looking to deliver innovation to UK consumers or firms in the UK financial services market.
The FCA states that it accepts applications from firms of any size, at any stage of development and from all sectors of financial services. Applicants do not need to be ready to launch (or nearly ready to launch) to qualify for FCA support. The FCA can help firms at any stage of development, from the idea stage onwards – provided they meet its criteria.
The FCA also provide support to a diverse range of firms including regulated and non-regulated firms and technology firms. It has also supported a range of technologies (for example robo-advice) from a wide variety of sectors (for example retail investments and regtech).
The FCA has also published the application form for Innovation Pathways.
