The AI Lab provides a pathway for the FCA, firms and wider stakeholders to engage in AI-related insights, discussions and case studies.

The FCA's AI Lab adds a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) focus to their Innovation Services, supporting innovators as they develop new AI models and solutions.

They want to enable the safe and responsible use of AI in UK financial markets, driving growth, competitiveness and innovation in the sector.

The AI Lab will support the FCA in deepening their understanding of the risks and opportunities AI presents to UK consumers and markets, and help inform their regulatory approach in a practical, collaborative way.

The first components of the AI Lab include:  

• AI Spotlight 
• AI Sprint
• AI Input Zone 
• Supercharged Sandbox 

AI Spotlight

Projects accepted to the AI Spotlight will provide a real-world insight and practical understanding into how firms are experimenting with AI in financial services.

Projects selected for the AI Spotlight will be featured on a dedicated Digital Spotlight webpage, offering a valuable repository of practical solutions that showcase applications of AI across specific themes. Innovators can also take part in a Showcase Day at the FCA London office on 28 January 2025. 

Applications are now open. Download the participation pack (PDF) for full details.

Apply for the AI SpotlightLink

AI Sprint

Bringing together industry, academics, regulators, technologists, and consumer representatives, The FCA will host an AI Sprint at their London office on 29 and 30 January 2025. This AI Sprint will help inform their regulatory approach to AI and how they can create the right environment for growth and innovation.

Applications for the AI Sprint are now open. Download the participation pack (PDF) for full details.

Apply for the AI SprintLink

AI Input Zone

The FCA invites all stakeholders to have their say on the future of AI in UK financial services through an online feedback platform. They look forward to hearing your views on the most transformative use cases, how their current framework works and how they may need to adapt in the future.

Have your say

Supercharged Sandbox

Looking ahead, The FCA will run AI-focused TechSprints and enhance their Digital Sandbox infrastructure through greater computing power, enriched datasets and increased AI testing capabilities. They look forward to inviting firms to collaborate and experiment in new ways. 

Our approach to AI

The FCA have been monitoring and supporting innovation in AI for many years. Their approach is rooted in the latest evidence and expertise. 

The FCA continues to deepen their understanding of how AI is being deployed in UK financial markets while monitoring it within their existing, wider regulatory framework.

Read more about their approach to AI.