The Financial Conduct Authority has widened access to its Scale-Up Unit, admitting five businesses regulated solely by the FCA for the first time as it steps up support for companies grappling with rapid expansion.
ClearScore, Modulr, Teya, Urban Jungle and Zilch have become the first solely FCA-regulated firms to join the programme, covering the payments, consumer finance, credit information and InsurTech sectors between them.
The Scale-Up Unit gives participating firms tailored regulatory support as they bring new products to market, respond to shifting policy and manage the operational strain that comes with fast growth. Findings from a recent pilot involving 15 high-growth firms, published on 10 August 2026, showed that companies investing early in governance, risk management and internal controls are better equipped to handle the demands of expansion and scale in a sustainable manner.
The FCA is the UK’s conduct regulator for financial services, tasked with ensuring markets work well for consumers and businesses while supporting innovation across the sector.
Six firms jointly regulated by the FCA and the Prudential Regulation Authority were named as the Scale-Up Unit’s first cohort in February, and applications for the next group of participants are due to open soon. The regulator said its broader innovation services have now supported more than 1,000 innovative and growing financial services firms since they launched.
FCA chief data information and innovation officer Jessica Rusu said, “High-growth firms play a vital role in driving economic growth across the UK. We want the UK to remain one of the best places in the world to start, grow and scale a financial services business. That’s why we’re supporting ambitious firms as they scale, helping them navigate regulation and innovate with confidence.”
Copyright © 2026 RegTech Analyst
Copyright © 2026 RegTech Analyst
