FCA Expands Scale-up Unit to Support High-Growth Financial Services Firms

Fast-growing financial services companies across the UK now have greater access to regulatory support as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) expands its Scale-up Unit programme.

The initiative is designed to help innovative businesses navigate regulatory requirements, accelerate growth, and bring new products and services to market with confidence.

What Is the FCA Scale-up Unit?

The FCA Scale-up Unit provides tailored support to ambitious financial services firms that are experiencing rapid growth. Participating companies receive a dedicated FCA contact alongside practical guidance to help them better understand regulatory processes and policy developments.

The programme is intended to remove unnecessary barriers to growth while ensuring firms continue to operate responsibly and sustainably.

Supporting Innovation and Sustainable Expansion

Businesses accepted into the Scale-up Unit can benefit from direct engagement with FCA specialists who can assist with regulatory questions, innovation challenges, and evolving compliance requirements.

According to Jessica Rusu, the FCA’s Chief Data, Information and Intelligence Officer, the regulator aims to create an environment where innovative firms can grow confidently while contributing to the UK’s position as a leading global financial services hub.

The initiative builds on a successful pilot programme that has already supported several dual-regulated firms. Insights gathered from participating businesses are helping the FCA improve its policies and regulatory processes to better support innovation across the sector.

Applications Open for Solo-Regulated Firms

For the first time, solo-regulated financial services firms can now apply to join the Scale-up Unit. The FCA will use feedback and experiences from participating firms to further refine its approach and ensure regulation continues to evolve alongside emerging technologies and business models.

Applications are open from 20 May 2026 until 22 June 2026.

Why This Matters

As competition within financial services continues to increase, access to expert regulatory guidance can provide a significant advantage. The FCA’s expanded Scale-up Unit demonstrates a commitment to supporting innovation while maintaining high standards of consumer protection and market integrity.