Barclays joins forces with Microsoft and NVIDIA to launch new Innovation Hub in London

Barclays has announced the launch of a new Innovation Hub in London, working with a range of partners from across the tech industry – including Microsoft and NVIDIA.

Powered by Barclays Eagle Labs, the bank’s incubator ecosystem, the new Hub will be dedicated to accelerating the commercial growth of startups in AI, Deep tech, and the innovation economy by connecting founders, industry experts and investors.

The Innovation Hub will provide collaborative workspaces for 150 cutting edge tech businesses in the heart of Shoreditch and will offer access to a network of events, workshops, growth programmes and ecosystem connectivity.

Businesses working within the Innovation Hub will also be able to network and build relationships with the core partners behind the concept, including Microsoft, NVIDIA, Conception X, Databricks, Innovate Finance and Twin Path Ventures – and will have direct access to members of Barclays innovation banking team who will be based on-site, supporting tech founders to achieve growth through 10 years of expertise in the innovation economy.

The partners involved will play a key role in shaping the Hub, with plans to convene regularly to discuss how the space can develop, grow and further support the businesses operating within it.

Hannah Bernard, Head of Business Banking, Barclays, said: “The UK's innovation ecosystem is one of the best in the world, but we can’t afford to rest on our laurels. Key players from across the industry need to come together to help nurture and develop the next wave of tech entrepreneurs – this new Innovation Hub will play an important role in facilitating that as part of our wider offering to tech businesses. Our innovation banking specialists will be on hand to provide tailored support to founders, helping them raise capital, develop business skills and accelerate their growth.”

“The UK has a rich entrepreneurial history, and the Barclays Innovation Hub will form a critical focal point for the next wave of innovators looking to bring their ideas to life with the power of AI,” says Ali Wright, SMB Director, Microsoft UK. “Microsoft is delighted to be a launch partner, and we look forward to providing expertise and access to services that will help aspiring organisations fulfil their potential and fuel growth across the UK economy.”

“The Barclays Innovation Hub is a vital catalyst for upskilling the UK’s workforce in AI and accelerating the growth of its ambitious startups. NVIDIA’s contributions to the Innovation Hub supports our broader commitment to upskill UK developers with AI skills,” said Anthony Hills, UK Country Manager of NVIDIA.

Alongside the launch of this flagship hub, Barclays is continuing to work with core partners and investors to deliver expertise, education and support to entrepreneurs across the UK. Its network of Eagle Labs consists of 43 locations across the UK and has supported more than 17,000 businesses since it was first launched.