Atlantic Fintech Growth Network: Powered by Industry Leaders
Atlantic Fintech launched the Atlantic Fintech Growth Network, a premier program equipping Atlantic Canadian fintech startups with expert mentorship, regulatory guidance, and high-value introductions to accelerate international expansion. The first edition is focused on the U.S. market and runs through to March 2026. The program's true strength lies in its exceptional leaders – senior executives deeply embedded in U.S. banking, payments, and fintech – who bring unparalleled calibre, delivering actionable insights and connections that promise transformative impact for participants. This initiative, backed by partners like the National Fintech Organization and The Exchange, positions Atlantic Canadian fintechs to overcome market-entry hurdles and scale confidently.
"In the fintech world, it's not just what you know but who you know that truly makes the difference. The power of relationships, connections, and introductions opens doors that are otherwise closed, creating pathways to partnerships, funding, and growth that fintechs simply can't achieve alone”, said Wayne Brown, founder of The Exchange. “This program is unique because it brings together executives and industry leaders who are deeply embedded in the financial ecosystem, offering startups direct access to invaluable expertise and networks that accelerate their journey to success."
Not only are the mentors, connections, potential partners and experts deeply embedded in the industry, but the leaders within the Atlantic Fintech Growth Network themselves as well.
Charles Potts
Charles Potts is a distinguished fintech innovator and strategist, serving as an advisor to the National Fintech Organization (NFO). He previously held the influential role of EVP and Chief Innovation Officer at the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), where he drove transformative fintech initiatives and fostered critical industry partnerships. He now leads as Executive Vice President and Head of Growth and Engagement at the American Fintech Council. His deep strategic vision and leadership in innovation make him a key figure in shaping the future of community banking and fintech collaboration.
Wayne Brown
Wayne Brown has an extensive history with the financial services industry, including with Mastercard International, Citigroup and Deutsche Bank to name a few. He is the founder of The Walker Group, as well as The Exchange, a deeply connected peer to peer network of top senior executives within the US banking industry. Specializing in cultivating high-value executive networks and advancing professional development within financial services, his expertise lies in building partnerships with banks and fintechs to unlock millions of dollars of new sources of revenue for all stakeholders. This is accomplished through relationship-building, facilitating introductions that open doors to critical partnerships and growth channels in the fintech sector.
Mary Beth Marchione
Mary Beth Marchione is a highly accomplished leader in financial services compliance, audit, and technology risk management. She serves as Partner at Wipfli, a leading advisory firm, and as part of the leadership team at the National Fintech Organization (NFO), previously holding the role of Education Chair. With advanced certifications including CPA, MBA, CISA, CISSP, and AWS cloud expertise, she stands at the forefront of cybersecurity and regulatory frameworks in fintech. Her authoritative knowledge ensures rigorous risk governance, protecting fintech ventures as they navigate complex regulatory landscapes. Her leadership in cybersecurity and regulatory frameworks equips Growth Network participants with critical tools to navigate U.S. complexities.
Scott Mills
Scott Mills is the President & COO of William Mills Agency and Executive Board Member of NFO, with extensive networks in banking and payments innovation. He is a seasoned fintech PR strategist and expert, advising companies on how to communicate their value proposition, build their brand awareness, and establish their thought leadership in the dynamic and competitive fintech market. His strategic advisory roles enable fintechs to forge pivotal U.S. partnerships, amplifying the program's potential for rapid market traction.
Alicia Roisman Ismach
Alicia Roisman Ismach, seasoned serial fintech entrepreneur, leads Atlantic Fintech as our Head of Fintech. Her expertise is rich in fintech strategy and ecosystem building, with a track record of guiding fintechs through international expansion. Her insights into investor relations, monetization strategies and go-to-market tactics strengthens the Atlantic Canadian fintech sector and helps drive measurable outcomes for the region’s fintechs.
With the Atlantic Fintech Growth Network's powerhouse leaders at the helm, the selected 2025-2026 Atlantic Canadian fintechs gain an unmatched edge in penetrating the U.S. market – blending elite expertise, insider networks, and proven strategies for explosive growth through 2026. This isn't just mentorship; it's a launchpad to partnerships, funding, and global scale – where Atlantic Canada belongs.
The program is made possible through the support of Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Invest Nova Scotia and Opportunities New Brunswick, underscoring Atlantic Canada’s commitment to positioning its fintech sector on the global stage.
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