Barclays Aspire

From idea to action

Rise Ideation Academy

You have an idea, but do you have the makings of a promising fintech business?

Barclays Aspire
Barclays Aspire

How it works

Rise Ideation Academy leads you through the steps required to help you validate your thinking. The programme will support you to identify and test your customer need and business model. You’ll get the training, tools and resources needed to help you transform your idea and validate your proposition.

It’s designed to fit into your schedule. Whether you’re a full-time founder or pursuing a passion project, the Academy offers a range of modules, a wealth of content, and access to a community of like-minded individuals. 

All for you to explore at your own pace.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, there is no formal closing date.

Learn from anywhere

Learn from anywhere

24/7 access to your curriculum, including 16 modules and bite-sized videos to develop the skills and mindset you need to explore your idea.
Learn by doing

Learn by doing

Through regular activities and live workshops, keep yourself accountable by applying, testing and building on what you’ve learned.
Learn as a community

Learn as a community

Build your network with like-minded founders and share your experiences, challenges and opportunities.

Is this Academy right for you?

You’re based in US/Canada/Europe/UK

You’re an aspiring founder

You’re rethinking the traditional approach to finance and want to test an idea to see if it could become a business.

You’re committed and self-driven

The Academy is a self-directed learning journey. It’s down to you to make the most of this experience. Guided by the platform, you’ll apply new learnings and methodologies to your business idea. Expect to set aside 4-6 hours per module (16 modules in total).

Access exclusive workshops

Access our exclusive workshops and have a chance to explore a range of relevant subject matter expertise.

From establishing your customer pain points to writing your value proposition, these interactive workshops give you the opportunity to learn from growth experts and ask the burning questions.

Fintech success stories

"The programme provided structure and frameworks that helped us provoke our existing thought process. We are able to develop and integrate the concept while focusing our efforts on evolving and improving our idea."

Gordon Spencer

Co-Founder | ReFarm Fund

"As a non-technical founder from a minority background, the level of support and resources has made all the difference. I updated the strategy and saved my business from failing even before it launched. I will be forever grateful for my founder's journey through this programme."

Paula Jackler

Founder | Ozzie

"We have not only gained invaluable skills and knowledgeable insights but also gained a network of like-minded entrepreneurs from across the world who we believe will continue to support and inspire us on our entrepreneurial journey."

Nathan Johnston

Co-Founder | Prosperify Ltd

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, there is no formal closing date.