NXTSTAGE FinTech Pilot Competition

Matchmaking FinTech Startups to Kansas’ Leading Financial Institutions

This innovation program allows FinTech startups from around the world to present their innovative technology solutions to prospective customers in Kansas that they otherwise may not have been able to access. Startups offer potential technology tools – ready to be pilot-tested or fully deployed – that can help financial institutions enhance digital offerings and improve operations.

2024 Recap

In 2024, with the invaluable support of our premier sponsors Kansas Bankers Association, INTRUST Bank, and Emprise Bank, we proudly showcased our exceptional lineup of eight finalists at the Innovation Showcase! From a highly competitive pool of 131 contenders hailing from 19 states and 16 countries, these innovative startups presented cutting-edge solutions designed to enhance financial services, streamline identity verification, and so much more. 

INTRUST Bank: Fivvy

"This competition provides a valuable opportunity for us to connect with talented entrepreneurs and explore new technologies that can help us better serve our community. It’s exciting to witness the innovative solutions these FinTech startups offer for our industry and other Kansas institutions. We are particularly impressed with Fivvy and look forward to continuing our discussions about potential collaborations." — Alfredo Ortiz-Aleman, INTRUST Bank

Kansas Bankers Association: V2Verify, Legal-Pythia, Eko Investments 

"The Kansas Bankers Association is pleased to partner with the NXTUS Financial Technology Pilot Competition. Our task force helped identify financial technology companies that can bring new products and services to Kansas community banks. It is our hope that community banks reviewing the opportunities presented by Eko Investments, Legal-Pythia, and V2verify will find them to be on the leading edge of products and services needed by our members." — Doug Wareham, President and CEO, Kansas Bankers Association

Check Out These Wins!

2024 Pilot Partners

Additional Program Value

  • No equity in your business is taken. This program is made possible by local sponsorship and national grant funding

  • Direct matchmaking with decision-makers, stakeholders, and community financial leaders

  • One-on-one market feedback from Pilot Partners

  • Finalists receive an opportunity to pitch live to hundreds of industry connectors at the annual Innovation Showcase

Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors!

Fill out the below information to learn more or express your interest in applying to the next cohort!

Want to Learn More?

*Space is limited. Applying does not guarantee your selection in the program.


NXTSTAGE is produced by NXTUS, a catalyst for the region’s startup ecosystem, generating and collaborating on efforts to help startup founders launch and grow highly scalable businesses by connecting them to capital, customers, and a supportive community.