CompareNI.com launches 2026 scholarship scheme for graduates within Northern Ireland's fintech sector
A leading Northern Ireland fintech firm is encouraging students to apply for a valuable scholarship programme which not only provides financial support but also offers valuable work experience.
Northern Ireland is a thriving hub of innovation and expertise in the fintech sector, consistently ranking as one of the top destinations globally for inward investment.
Graduates are afforded a diverse range of opportunities in this thriving industry, with entry level pay in fintech estimated to be 60 per cent higher than the average graduate starting salary.
Despite this, many students may have never considered a career in this lucrative field.
In a bid to support young people who are taking their first daunting steps into the fiercely competitive world of employment, CompareNI is encouraging students to explore the wide range of opportunities available within the rapidly growing fintech sector and enter their student scholarship.
The CompareNI Fintech Scholarship is designed to raise awareness of the vast career pathways available for graduates within the fintech sector in Northern Ireland.
The programme, now in its sixth year, also provides much-needed financial support for students, and offers them a chance to take part in industry relevant work experience.
Ian Wilson, Managing Director at CompareNI.com said: “Fintech is more than where technology and finance combine, it delivers smarter, safer and more efficient financial services.
“Northern Ireland is a well-established fintech hub and the sector has experienced a surge in expansion and innovation over recent years, with one in five people now employed across financial and tech services here.
“There has never been a better time for graduates to kickstart a career in this constantly evolving field, which has a reputation for highly competitive salaries and generous benefits packages.
“Despite this, the industry is facing a talent recruitment shortage, as the demand for skilled professionals far outstrips supply. This skills gap is one of the biggest barriers to long-term growth.
“That is why it is so important for fintech firms to understand what drives today’s graduates and what is it they prioritise most when starting out in their career.
"At a time when the competition for skilled, motivated workers is fiercer than ever, this knowledge will help employers to attract and retain the next generation of top talent.
“Fintech thrives on a diverse range of specialisms, meaning it can open doors for graduates who have studied a wide range of subjects. That is why I would encourage all students to enter our Fintech Scholarship programme to find out more about what this flourishing sector has to offer.”
The application process for the Fintech Scholarship is a short online form - the deadline for entries is April 30, 2026.
The winner will receive a £1,000 bursary and will also have the chance to take part in industry related work experience at CompareNI – gaining vital sector experience to help support their recruitment efforts.