Empire Startups New York FinTech Week 2020 was a big deal for anyone interested in financial technology. The week pulled together all kinds of people—startup founders, investors, and big companies—for a bunch of events around New York. There were demos, pitch sessions, talks from industry experts, and a lot of time set aside for meeting new people and swapping ideas. Even though the world was dealing with a lot of changes in 2020, the energy around new fintech ideas and partnerships was hard to miss. Here’s a look at some of the main things that happened and what stood out during the week.
Key Takeaways
- Empire Startups New York FinTech Week 2020 included a mix of conferences, pitch events, and networking sessions, making it easy for people to connect and learn.
- Startups showed off new fintech tools, with a focus on digital banking, payments, and lending platforms.
- Major companies like Mastercard played a key part, especially in sponsoring pitch days and supporting early-stage startups.
- Big topics included blockchain, cryptocurrencies, insurtech, and the growing use of AI in finance.
- The week highlighted how important community and partnerships are for building the fintech industry in New York.
Major Events at Empire Startups New York FinTech Week 2020
Looking back at FinTech Week 2020, it’s clear this was more than a set of meetings—it was a real turning point for startups trying to find their place, especially after so much uncertainty in early 2020. The whole week was planned as a way to give everyone in the space a seat at the table, no matter how new or established. It had a little bit of everything, from the big Empire FinTech Conference to private roundtables and lively pitch sessions.
Empire FinTech Conference Highlights
The conference took place right smack in the middle of the city. It was probably the toughest ticket to get that week. Attendees walked away buzzing about a few key things:
- Rapid-fire startup demonstrations showing off new tools
- Keynote Q&A with leaders who had actually built something themselves
- Networking sessions that, for once, actually felt genuine and productive
- Honest takes on the future of payments, lending, and digital identity
There was a buzz in the air because folks weren’t just watching slides on a screen. You saw investors taking real notes, founders swapping emails, and pretty much everyone thinking out loud about what comes next. The TechBullion audience was especially interested in the new shifts discussed this year.
Pitch Day Sponsored by Mastercard
Pitch Day came with the kind of energy you only get when big companies like Mastercard put their name behind it. Here’s what stood out:
- Startup founders had only a few minutes each to convince a panel of investors and industry pros.
- Judges weren’t shy—they grilled presenters on revenue, real-world traction, and user growth.
- Winners got strategic feedback and interest from key investors, some of whom were on the lookout for their next portfolio pick.
A quick look at the structure:
| Number of Startups | Minutes per Pitch | Investor Judges | Prizes Awarded |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | 5 | 5 | 1 Grand Prize |
Ask anyone who took part—they’d probably say those five minutes on stage were equal parts terrifying and the best rush of the week.
Exclusive Industry Roundtables
If you prefer conversation over presentation, the roundtables were where you wanted to be. These invite-only sessions gathered folks from banks, big tech, up-and-coming fintechs, and regulators.
Main points of discussion included:
- Changing regulations and how startups can keep up
- Collaboration between traditional banks and new fintech firms
- Ways to make tech accessible for more small businesses
- Real talk about the challenges of remote work in finance
The roundtables were less about fancy theories and more about sharing problems and quick wins. For many attendees, these talks set up partnerships that stretched well beyond FinTech Week.
Honestly, the magic of 2020’s events was seeing how new ideas and old-school industry players could hash things out and sometimes even find a way forward together. Even in a tight, sometimes stressful year, the event set the stage for real progress.
Noteworthy Startup Demos and Showcases
FinTech Week 2020 wasn’t just about talks and panels—it was packed with hands-on demos that showed off exactly where finance tech is heading next.
Emerging FinTech Solutions
If you’ve ever wondered what the future of your wallet or your bank account might look like, the demos at this year’s event gave some clues.
A handful of startups let attendees test early versions of their apps and tools. Some highlights:
- An automated savings app that sorts your change into investments on the fly.
- A digital risk assessment tool with plain-language breakdowns for users.
- Mobile lending platforms with one-minute approval times.
These companies weren’t just showing slides—they let people "kick the tires" on new tools, and they were open to feedback. Some founders talked candidly about tweaking features after sessions with attendees. That real-time interaction made a difference in how fast these ideas could get better.
Startup Pitch Sessions
There was a big buzz around the live pitch event, where early-stage companies ran through their decks in front of both investors and other founders. Here’s how it looked:
| Startup Name | Focus Area | Minutes to Pitch | Judges Present |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pluto Analytics | AI-driven risk modeling | 5 | 4 |
| CoinSnap | Micro-investing app | 5 | 4 |
| TrustFund Express | Fast SME lending | 5 | 4 |
| LedgerLeap | Compliance automation | 5 | 4 |
| ZippyWallet | Digital payments | 5 | 4 |
It was fast, noisy, and sometimes a little rough around the edges—honestly, that’s part of the appeal. The judges weren’t shy about asking tough questions. With venture capital shifting to fewer, larger investments these days, you could almost feel the pressure on each pitch.
Spotlight on Innovative Tools
A separate showcase area was set up for live demos you could try on the spot, which helped startups stand out in a crowded field. Here are a few things that struck me:
- Instant credit scoring tools that rerun your score in seconds as you adjust what info you want to share.
- Simple fraud tracking dashboards, designed so you don’t need a background in security to use them.
- Plug-and-play APIs for small businesses to offer financing at checkout without any code.
Overall, watching people interact with these tools in real-time made the innovation buzz much more real than just reading about it online. It was messy, improv-style, and sometimes you’d hear a bug report or two shouted across the table, but that’s what makes these showcases stand out year after year.
Industry Trends and Hot Topics Discussed
FinTech Week 2020 in New York was a whirlwind of activity, with key trends shaping the way everyone is thinking about finance. The sessions offered a real look at what’s actually changing in the industry—stuff companies need to act on, not just hype. Some topics kept coming up again and again, and for good reason. Here’s a recap of what grabbed everyone’s attention at the event.
Digital Banking Innovations
Digital banking took center stage at almost every session. Banks, big and small, are scrambling to keep up with changing customer needs. Contactless payments, upgraded mobile apps, and round-the-clock service aren’t just nice-to-haves anymore—they’re expected.
A few specifics people couldn’t stop talking about:
- Instant account access with minimal paperwork
- Chat-based customer support that actually works
- Slick mobile wallets (not just rebranded debit cards)
The event made it obvious: banks have to keep up with all these changes, or customers will switch in a heartbeat. A fair amount of attention was also given to how asset managers and nonbank startups are helping drive these innovations, like through liquidity provision and risk tools.
Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies
There was less hype, more real conversation about blockchain this year. Companies are finally admitting what works and what’s still a promise. Here’s what got a lot of discussion:
- International payments are slowly moving to blockchain, especially for speed and lower cost.
- Stablecoins are catching on for cross-border transactions.
- Security is still a big worry, but there’s progress in how people approach it.
And with more regulators weighing in, the consensus feels like: blockchain won’t replace the old system overnight, but it’s definitely influencing it.
The Rise of Insurtech and WealthTech
Insurance and wealth management are changing almost as fast as banking.
Quick trends that stood out:
- Custom-tailored insurance products—mainly online
- Robo-advisors handling more complex investments
- Financial planning tools using real customer data, not just averages
Companies are fighting to make their user experience stand out since many features are starting to look the same from one app to another. As mentioned at Invest Connect, there’s a push for hyper-personalization and using APIs to blend services seamlessly for clients.
Overall, the sense from New York FinTech Week was that these trends are here to stay. Digital finance isn’t just for early adopters anymore—everyone expects it to just work, and companies that don’t keep up will fall behind.
Networking and Community Engagement
When you think about conferences, it’s usually the talks and showcases that stand out, but at Empire Startups New York FinTech Week 2020, I was honestly surprised at how much of the real action happened between the panels and in the after-hours chats. This event didn’t just throw entrepreneurs and investors into a room—it built a space where people could really meet, swap ideas, and build relationships that might outlive the conference itself. The sense of community—while maybe less visible than the demo stage—was everywhere.
Opportunities for Entrepreneurs
FinTech Week went beyond being just another series of talks. Here’s how founders and builders got to make the most of it:
- Startup founders were given time slots to introduce themselves in casual meetups, which honestly made networking way less awkward.
- Speed-networking sessions allowed for quick pitches, leading to some interesting follow-up coffee meetings later in the week.
- A dedicated online platform helped attendees share contact details and set up chats ahead of the event, totally saving time for everyone involved.
For anyone looking for a list, here are the main opportunities I noticed:
- Fast-paced connection sessions (so you didn’t stand around feeling lost).
- Open pitch circles—no panel, just honest feedback from peers.
- Founder roundtables where newer entrepreneurs could pick the brains of more experienced ones.
Collaborations with Investors
If you’ve ever worried about cold emailing VCs and getting nowhere, this conference felt like a lifeline. Investor participation wasn’t just for show. Organizers set up:
- Curated investor-founder roundtables, based on shared interests and focus areas.
- Office hours with a shortlist of venture firms, where startups could sign up for genuine one-on-one time—no hard sell required.
- Matchmaking dinners, which were definitely more about honest talk than schmoozing over fancy appetizers.
Here’s a quick look at the investor engagement by the numbers:
| Activity | Number of Sessions | Investor Participation |
|---|---|---|
| Office Hours | 6 | 24 |
| Curated Roundtables | 4 | 30 |
| Matchmaking Dinners | 2 | 12 |
Not every event guarantees this level of direct contact, so if you’re hunting for a partnership or funding in the future, it’s worth keeping fintech conference opportunities in mind for upcoming years.
Building the FinTech Ecosystem
A big focus I saw was on actually growing the fintech scene, not just showing off what companies had already built. Panels, workshops, and after-hours socials brought together people from all corners of the industry:
- Community leaders and accelerators ran open discussions on how to boost mentorship for founders from underrepresented backgrounds.
- Local government partners talked about resources for fintech startups wanting to set up shop in New York.
- Mentoring sessions (formal and informal) encouraged new collaborations, even between competitors.
The real standout? By the time the week wrapped up, most people I spoke with had made at least three new connections that could help their business or project.
In the end, what made the networking and engagement at Empire Startups New York FinTech Week 2020 memorable was how it felt both planned and spontaneous. You rarely get that outside of events where everyone—whether you were a first-time founder or a longtime investor—wants the fintech space to keep growing as a community.
Influential Keynotes and Expert Sessions
Empire Startups New York FinTech Week 2020 didn’t hold back when it came to bringing inspiring speakers and sharp minds together. From keynote talks that dug right into today’s fintech challenges to interactive panels and live podcasts, everything had a strong focus on what’s happening right now—the people, the tech, and the big ideas.
Insights from Industry Leaders
The main stage was packed with speakers from both established companies and fast-moving startups. They didn’t just talk about buzzwords. Instead, they spoke honestly about the hurdles they’ve faced, the mistakes they’ve made, and where they think things are headed next. Keynotes often focused on:
- How to build trust with customers when handling digital money
- The ongoing changes in regulations and how companies can keep up
- Lessons learned from scaling a startup to acquisition
One moment that really stood out was a session where a founder described having to pivot their entire product during the pandemic’s first weeks. The talk ended with a Q&A that got everyone thinking—sometimes, even experts don’t have all the answers.
Panel Discussions on Financial Technology
Panels brought together voices from different ends of the fintech universe. There were lively debates on everything from neobanks to compliance headaches. Some key points included:
- The pros and cons of rapid digital banking adoption
- Why some legacy banks are still hesitant about blockchain
- Tools that even small teams can use to improve customer support
Here’s a table summing up some recurring topics and their frequency across panel sessions:
| Topic Covered | Number of Panels |
|---|---|
| Digital Banking Challenges | 5 |
| Regulation & Compliance | 4 |
| Blockchain Applications | 3 |
| Customer Experience Innovation | 3 |
| Insurtech Disruption | 2 |
The group discussions were casual but didn’t shy away from poking at tough questions. Everyone—the cynical, the optimistic, the quietly skeptical—had something to say.
Live Podcasts Featuring FinTech Visionaries
There was also a big push toward creating content that could reach outside the live event. Several well-known podcasts recorded episodes on-site, pulling in industry guests between sessions. These recordings covered:
- Real-time stories from fintech veterans
- Mini debates on whether cryptocurrencies can ever be stable
- Startup journeys told by the founders themselves
It was easy to feel like you were eavesdropping on an insider conversation as they joked about industry mishaps or praised unexpected mentors. If you’re curious about how entrepreneurial thinking shows up in fintech, you might want to check out thought leaders like Ezra Firestone—even if their main game is ecommerce, the hustle and frank attitude definitely crossover.
To sum up, the expert sessions at NY FinTech Week 2020 weren’t perfectly polished, but that’s kind of the point. There was genuine discussion, real vulnerability, and a chance to learn from people who are still figuring things out. Events like these remind us that financial technology is always changing—and it’s the people willing to say what didn’t work who push the conversation forward.
Groundbreaking Innovations Revealed
The Empire Startups New York FinTech Week 2020 wasn’t just about flashy product launches. It brought updates from some of the brightest companies pushing tech in finance, showing what’s actually happening behind all those startup headlines.
Real-Time Payment Solutions
Instant payments were a big talking point throughout the week. Panels and demos showed how new systems aim to make sending money as simple and quick as a chat message. Banks and tech companies both talked about the tough parts, like protecting data and stopping fraud, but attendees seemed most excited about speed.
Here’s a quick look at the real-time payment solutions showcased:
| Startup | Key Feature | Live Demo? |
|---|---|---|
| PayFlow | Peer-to-peer instant | Yes |
| FlashFunds | Business payments API | No |
| CoinQuick | Crypto-conversion | Yes |
Three things companies said they wanted to fix for users:
- Make sending money 24/7, not just during bank hours
- Reduce payment errors from bad account details
- Combine mobile access with full security alerts
Advancements in Lending Platforms
Online lending looked totally different this year. Startups shared platforms that check risk and approve loans in minutes, not days. A couple even used non-traditional data, like rent payments and freelance contracts, to make lending accessible to more people. This kind of shift could mean way more folks can get loans, not just those with the perfect credit history.
Some highlights from the lending tech scene:
- Automated credit scoring using alternative data
- Flexible repayment options for gig workers
- Partnerships with banks to handle the boring, legal stuff fast
AI and Voice Technology in Finance
A session on voice-powered banking was way more interesting than it sounds (no pun intended). FinTechs demoed AI bots that understand what users actually mean—think, "How much did I spend on takeout last month?"—and give real answers, not just basic balance statements. The big draw here is making banking personal again, but with way less effort.
AI is now powering:
- Fraud alerts that actually catch weird spending before you do
- Chat assistants for customer support that don’t sound like robots
- Tools that help investors track markets in real time with simple voice commands
If you’re curious about how these efforts line up with bigger shifts, The Global Startup Ecosystem Report offers a snapshot of where innovations like these are showing up worldwide (top global startup ecosystems).
All in all, the week left the sense that some of these breakthroughs aren’t just hype—they’re changing how people handle money, get loans, and interact with their banks every day.
Support and Participation by Major Corporations
When it comes to shaking up the finance world, big corporations usually play a huge part in bringing energy and resources to startup gatherings. At Empire Startups New York FinTech Week 2020, the presence of well-known companies was obvious—these are the folks who bankroll new ideas, back up entrepreneurs, and sometimes partner up for the long haul.
Mastercard’s Role in Supporting Startups
Mastercard wasn’t just a sponsor—they were at the center of the action, actually helping set the stage for the next big thing in FinTech. Through events like "Pitch Day," Mastercard gave startups more than just a platform to share their ideas—they offered real support, guidance, and even a shot at pilot projects with major partners. Some ways Mastercard made an impact:
- Hosted interactive mentorship sessions for founders.
- Offered feedback from senior executives on product pitches.
- Created partnership opportunities for selected startups.
Investor Partnerships and Initiatives
Corporate investors, both local and international, joined forces to fund and supercharge new companies. This kind of partnership goes much further than cash:
| Corporation | Type of Involvement | Notable Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Mastercard | Sponsorship, Mentorship, Investment | Hand-picked startup pilots |
| Major Banks | Strategic Partnerships | API integrations |
| Payment Networks | Accelerator Initiatives | Alumni network support |
These efforts help founders get through rough patches and open more doors as they grow.
Service Providers Accelerating Growth
There’s a whole ecosystem of service providers who roll up their sleeves, get their hands dirty, and help startups go from ideas on paper to something real. At the 2020 conference, you could see these companies doing everything from helping with compliance to unlocking new payment rails:
- Tech consultants simplifying regulatory hurdles for young startups.
- Cloud service platforms offering credits and onboarding support.
- Legal and marketing firms sharing practical advice, sometimes for free.
Events like these always benefit from the push that comes with established players showing up. It’s a similar story for those interested in events like Money 20/20 USA 2025, where the mix of old-school experience and fresh thinking keeps things moving forward.
Conclusion
Looking back at Empire Startups New York FinTech Week 2020, it’s clear the event was more than just a bunch of panels and presentations. It brought together people from all corners of the fintech world—startups, investors, big banks, and curious newcomers. There was a real sense of community, even though a lot of it happened online because of the pandemic. Folks shared ideas, showed off new tech, and talked about what’s next for finance. Some of the demos were honestly pretty wild, and it was cool to see how quickly things are changing. If there’s one thing to take away, it’s that fintech keeps moving fast, and events like this help everyone keep up. Can’t wait to see what next year brings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Empire Startups New York FinTech Week 2020?
Empire Startups New York FinTech Week 2020 was a week-long series of events in New York City that brought together people from the financial technology world. The week included conferences, networking sessions, pitch competitions, and special roundtable talks, all focused on the latest in fintech.
Who attended the Empire FinTech Conference during FinTech Week 2020?
The Empire FinTech Conference welcomed over 600 people, including startup founders, investors, big companies, and people interested in new financial technology. It was a great place for anyone wanting to learn about or connect with the fintech community.
What were some of the main topics discussed at the event?
People talked about lots of new ideas, like digital banking, blockchain, cryptocurrencies, insurance technology (Insurtech), and wealth management technology (WealthTech). There were also discussions about real-time payments and how artificial intelligence is changing finance.
How did startups get to show their ideas?
Startups had a chance to show off their products and ideas through demo sessions and pitch competitions, including a special Pitch Day sponsored by Mastercard. This helped them get noticed by investors and other important people in the industry.
Did the event help people make business connections?
Yes, there were many chances for networking. Attendees could meet other entrepreneurs, talk with investors, and join roundtable discussions. These activities made it easier to build partnerships and work together on new projects.
What role did big companies like Mastercard play?
Major companies like Mastercard supported the event by sponsoring competitions and helping startups connect with resources. They also provided expert advice and helped create opportunities for young companies to grow.
