AS technology takes on a more dominant role in the Caribbean financial industry, catalysing the introduction of financial technology (fintech) corporations, chief executive officer of US-based FinCAP Global LLC Allison Hunte believes that now is the time to accelerate the adoption and advancement of fintechs across the Caribbean.

“The fintech ecosystem in the Caribbean is relatively new but evolving rapidly. Across the region, innovative start-ups are building fintech solutions — from digital wallets to alternative lending — and together the islands represent a substantial market opportunity and an attractive environment for building new fintech companies and expanding existing companies globally,” she shared.

With this in mind, FinCAP Global LLC is getting ready to host Fintech Islands Experience (FiX 2022), a three-day summit in Barbados at the Hilton Barbados Resort which will explore topics such as financial inclusion, climate fintech, cryptocurrencies, blockchain technology, and decentralised finance. From October 5–7 attendees will participate in panel discussions, one-on-one meetings, and networking events geared toward cementing business connections.

The event will also feature 100 plus speakers to include Kiki Del Valle, head of Mastercard’s Latin American and Caribbean division; co-founder of Nigerian payments giant Flutterwave, Iyinoluwa Aboyeji; Nicholas Brathwaite, founding managing partner of Celesta Capital; Mariamme McIntosh Robinson, managing director, Qenta Inc; and executive chairman of Delta Capital Partners Zachary Harding.

The host country’s Prime Minister Mia Mottley will also address the conference on the opening day.

“Our goal at Fintech Islands Experience (FiX) is to connect the global community of founders, investors, corporate executives and thought leaders to their Caribbean counterparts at a time when meaningful collaboration still comes down to getting the right people in the room,” Hunte explained.

So far, FiX has announced global payments solutions provider Mastercard as its first platinum partner/sponsor.

According to Andrew B Morris, senior advisor on content and partnerships for FiX 2022, the aim of the conference is “connecting financial services and the technology ecosystem through discussions, collaboration, networking and deal-making”.

He added: “The endorsement of global stakeholders like Mastercard and others will contribute significantly to the overall conversation as a catalyst for fintech expansion across the Caribbean market.”

FiX 2022 will also offer attendees an immersive experience in Barbados’s culture and lifestyle.