MUFG Open Innovation Programme Offers UK Fintechs the Chance to Scale into Japan

MUFG Open Innovation Programme Offers UK Fintechs the Chance to Scale into Japan

FinTech Wales is pleased to share an exciting opportunity for ambitious fintechs with proven traction, as the British Embassy in Tokyo and MUFG launch a new Open Innovation Initiative.

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG), one of Japan’s leading financial institutions, is partnering with NTT DATA and supported by the British Embassy in Tokyo to invite UK-based companies to apply for their latest innovation programme.

The initiative aims to identify and collaborate with UK start-ups developing innovative solutions across a range of key areas in financial services. A special pitching event will be held in London this November, offering shortlisted companies the chance to present their technologies directly to MUFG and key stakeholders.

Focus Areas for Innovation

UK fintechs with scalable solutions and established customer traction are encouraged to apply, particularly if they are operating in the following domains:

• AI Governance – Ensuring transparent and controlled AI deployment within financial institutions.
• Marketing Automation – Enhancing customer engagement in an evolving regulatory environment.
• Agentic AI – Transforming customer journeys through intelligent digital agents.
• Digital Banking – Building next-generation platforms for digital-first banking.
• Intelligence Gathering – Leveraging AI for economic and reputational insights.
• Hyper/Process Automation – Driving efficiency and cost reductions through automation.
• Fraud Detection – Combating phishing, scams, and account takeovers amid rising generative AI threats.

This programme is an excellent gateway for UK fintechs exploring expansion into the Japanese market. A trade mission to Japan is also being considered for February 2026, potentially offering further in-market engagement for successful applicants.

How to Apply

UK companies interested in applying should do so via the official programme page hosted by NTT DATA:

MUFG Open Innovation Programme | NTT DATA

Deadline for event participation applications: Midnight, Monday 13th October 2025.
Companies may also apply without attending the event.

For further information, queries can be directed to:
Kaori Arai, Head of Defence, Security, Cyber, Space and Civil Aerospace – Trade
British Embassy Tokyo | Email: [email protected]

FinTech Wales encourages its network to explore this high-impact opportunity and to consider how Welsh innovation can contribute to solving real-world financial challenges in Japan and beyond.