NatWest Group has opened applications for its 2026 Fintech Programme, a 12-week accelerator aimed at early-stage fintech companies using artificial intelligence to redefine the future of customer experience in financial services. The programme is specifically targeting pre-Series A and Series A fintechs with proven product-market fit and commercial traction.

The 2026 programme's central theme is how agentic AI and emerging technologies are reshaping customer interactions with financial services. It invites fintechs delivering solutions across three key areas: improving engagement and customer relationships in an agentic AI landscape, creating immersive banking experiences beyond traditional apps (including smart devices and new customer touchpoints), and supporting vulnerable customers through technology.

The programme also encourages applications from fintechs based in UK regional hubs outside London, reflecting NatWest's commitment to broadening the geographic base of fintech innovation. Successful applicants receive hands-on support from NatWest's Innovation team, access to senior decision-makers and mentorship, and opportunities to explore potential collaboration and commercial partnerships with the bank.

A notable success story from previous cohorts is Tunic Pay, an award-winning real-time payment intelligence platform dedicated to preventing fraud and scams. Tunic Pay formed a commercial partnership with NatWest following its participation and is now piloting fraud prevention for the bank's retail customers.

"The pace of advances in AI and technology is fundamentally changing how customers interact with financial services," said David Grunwald, Director of Innovation at NatWest Group. "To stay ahead, whether through new channels, emerging technologies, or smarter engagement, innovation and collaboration are non-negotiables."