FCA launches new unit to support fast-growing financial firms

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has announced the launch of a new unit to provide tailored support to fast-growing financial firms.

The Scale-up Unit aims to help innovative financial services businesses to navigate regulation so they can scale sustainably.

It is now open to FCA solo-regulated firms, which can apply for more support to help them grow.

The unit looks to offer a dedicated point of contact and practical support to help navigate regulatory processes, develop innovative products, and understand the impact of policy changes.

The FCA and Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) are already supporting six dual-regulated firms through the Scale-up Unit as part of a pilot.

This pilot has given the FCA insight into how it can best support growing firms, the regulator stated, and it will continue this dialogue with solo-regulated firms.

It will also use insights from participating firms to inform wider policy and process improvements, aiming to ensure regulation keeps pace with innovation.

Applications for FCA solo-regulated firms to join the Scale-up Unit are open from 20 May to 22 June 2026.

'We want firms to be able to grow with confidence,” commented FCA chief data, information, and intelligence officer, Jessica Rusu.

“This initiative will help them navigate regulation, scale sustainably and contribute to making the UK the best place to start and grow a financial services business.”

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