Fintech Meetup, billed as the world's largest fintech meetings event, is crossing the Atlantic. Its first European edition, Fintech Meetup Europe, will be held in Lisbon, Portugal, from October 6 to 8, 2026. The event expects to gather 2,500+ participants, including 650+ hosted buyers from banks, financial institutions, retailers, and merchants, alongside fintech founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders from across Europe and beyond.
2,500+ Participants and 650+ Hosted Buyers
Powered by a proprietary technology platform, the event will enable 25,000+ pre-scheduled double opt-in meetings — a hallmark of the Fintech Meetup format. Attendees fill out collaboration goals ahead of time; the system matches them and generates a confirmed schedule. This approach turns a crowded conference into a marketplace of focused, one-on-one conversations.
25,000+ Pre-Scheduled Meetings: Efficiency First
Unlike typical fintech expos, Fintech Meetup prioritizes structured networking. Every meeting is mutually agreed upon before the event, cutting down on random walk-ups. The U.S. edition has proven that this format leads to real partnerships and deals. Lisbon will replicate that blueprint while tailoring content to Europe's regulatory and innovation landscape.
Replicating the U.S. Model in a European Hub
Gary Dempsey, Event Director of Fintech Meetup Europe, noted that Lisbon has emerged as a vibrant fintech hub, making it a natural launchpad. The event will cover topics such as open banking, digital payments, regtech, and Web3 finance, though the full agenda has yet to be released. Registration and buyer applications are open, with early-bird discounts available.