News

The FinTech Innovation Lab is a highly competitive 12-week program, which helps early- to growth-stage companies that are redefining the fintech industry, to grow their businesses with support from the world’s top financial service firms and venture capital executives. It was cofounded by the Partnership Fund for New York City, the $180 million investment arm of the Partnership for New York City, and Accenture, a global professional services company with leading capabilities in digital, cloud, and security.

Each year, the FinTech Innovation Lab hosts Demo Day, during which 10 emerging enterprise tech companies— out of 200 applicants globally—present their technologies to top executives within the financial services, venture capital, and technology industries. This year, on June 22, the 13th annual New York Demo Day was hosted at the Fordham University Gabelli School of Business and provided a fascinating look at the businesses of the future and the individuals whose ideas will inspire them.

Robert P. Gach, BS ’80, chair of the Gabelli School of Business Advisory Board, member of the President’s Council of Fordham University, and an adjunct professor who had a highly successful 37-year career at Accenture, delivered opening remarks. He was followed by David Parker, global financial services industry practice chair, Accenture, and Maria Gotsch, cochair, FinTech Innovation Lab and president & CEO of the Partnership Fund for New York City, who primed the audience in advance of the presentations that were to come.

Attendees were not disappointed, with pitches focusing on a wide range of new business ideas—from companies such as 55/Redefined that enables businesses to attract, grow, and engage over-50s talent and consumers through platforms/digital solutions, thus unlocking value for an aging population, to breakthru, which connects companies and youth through an earning platform. Each of the 10 entrepreneurs who presented was introduced by a member from the partner company—such as Travelers, Guardian Life, and BNY Mellon—that worked with them to refine and present their idea.

“We are thrilled to host the FinTech Innovation Lab New York Demo Day 2023, commented Gach. “The spirit of innovation and collaboration demonstrated today closely aligns with the Gabelli School’s mission and vision. It was inspiring to watch the presentations, knowing these ideas will drive the creation of new businesses that will address the demand for innovative technologies across industries.”

After the presentations, dozens of top executives within the financial services, venture capital, and technology industries who were in attendance were invited to chat with the presenters further about their ideas.