The programme aims to support early-stage startups developing innovative solutions in cross-border finance, security, risk and compliance, Web3 and blockchain infrastructure, government technology (GovTech) and regulatory technology (RegTech).

It is seen as a significant step towards making GIFT City’s International Financial Services Centre’s (IFSC) startup ecosystem globally competitive.

According to Sanjay Kaul, Managing Director and Group CEO of GIFT City, “The convergence of finance, technology and regulation is creating new opportunities in financial services. Through the Fintech Residential Programme, we aim to support founders who are building innovative solutions for both domestic and global markets.”

“GIFT City’s unique ecosystem brings together startups, regulators, financial institutions and investors on a common platform to drive innovation and responsible growth,” he said.

The programme will be administered through the GIFT International Fintech Innovation Hub (GIFT IFIH). It includes a three-month in-person residency at GIFT City followed by three months of virtual support.

Target 250

The selected startups will receive industry mentorship, regulatory guidance, access to investors and strategic partners, and connectivity to the broader fintech ecosystem. The initiative is designed to help startups refine their products, validate market demand, and prepare for global growth.

In the first cohort, 11 startups received mentorship, product development support, investor connections, and ecosystem access. Building on this success, the second cohort has now been launched.

Established in January 2025, GIFT IFIH has set a target of supporting 250 fintech startups over the next four years. The hub is working with startups focused on cross-border payments, regulatory technology, digital assets, compliance solutions and financial infrastructure.

Following Global Models

Fintech residential programmes are already operational in several leading financial centres around the world, where startups receive mentorship, regulatory guidance, investor access, and market support.

In Singapore, such programmes are supported by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and various accelerators. In London, the Financial Conduct Authority’s Regulatory Sandbox and multiple fintech hubs provide similar assistance.

Hong Kong runs innovation programmes, while Dubai International Financial Centre’s (DIFC) FinTech Hive is among the world’s most recognised fintech accelerators.

Similarly, Luxembourg offers specialised incubation programmes in fund management and fintech, while New York City hosts several fintech incubators and accelerator programmes. In India, GIFT City is emerging as a dedicated platform for such initiatives.

Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Hyderabad also host fintech accelerator and incubation programmes, but GIFT City’s model is distinct because it is centred on the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) and international financial services.

Who Will Benefit 

For one, startups and founders will benefit. They will get support in transforming business ideas into market-ready products, mentorship from industry experts, direct access to investors, and the opportunity to prepare products for global markets.

Second, Fintech Companies. They stand to gain from cross-border payments, digital banking, RegTech, compliance solutions, blockchain and Web3, digital assets, and risk management solutions.

Third, this is good news for GIFT City and the IFSC ecosystem. More startups are expected to establish operations there, and new technologies and financial services within the IFSC are likely to be developed. It may attract more international companies and investors as well as strengthen GIFT City’s position as a global fintech hub.

Students and young entrepreneurs will get the opportunity to launch fintech startups. There will be direct industry exposure and mentorship, and the opportunity to work within a globally benchmarked fintech ecosystem.