New guides on responsible innovation, digital adoption and AI literacy

Each guide combines practical tools, step-by-step frameworks, and real-world examples with insights from sector thought leaders, giving firms clear, actionable ways to navigate transformation, sustainability, and emerging technologies.

They are designed for organisations of every size, recognising that whether a small practice or a global firm, each will face its own challenges and opportunities.

At a time when technology and responsible innovation are reshaping financial and professional services, we want to ensure no firm is left behind. These guides give firms of every size the tools to adapt, experiment and grow in a rapidly changing landscape.

– Astrid Ayel, AI for Services Lead, Innovate UK Business Connect 

Practical innovation

These publications are part of the Innovate UK and ESRC ongoing Next Generation Professional and Financial Services programme, which supports the sector to develop and adopt digital technologies.

Practical Innovation Guide to Responsible Innovation

This guide helps firms integrate social and environmental value into their innovation strategies alongside commercial outcomes. It offers practical exercises, case studies, and tools to avoid pitfalls such as “greenwashing,” ensuring that new products and services deliver genuine positive impact for clients, communities, and the environment.

Practical Innovation Guide to Digital Adoption

This guide provides firms with a structured approach to evaluating, implementing, and scaling digital tools. Covering everything from assessing current systems to engaging stakeholders, it emphasises that successful adoption is as much about people and culture as it is about technology. The guide also highlights common barriers such as funding and skills shortages, while offering examples of best practice to overcome them.

Practical Innovation Guide to AI Literacy

This guide introduces the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and its applications for the FPS sector. It explains key terms, practical use cases, and considerations around data readiness, security, and ethics. Designed for senior decision-makers as well as practitioners, it encourages firms to start small with AI while building long-term strategies for adoption and talent development.

How to find out more

A series of Practical Innovation workshops will be delivered to launch the guides across different regions in the UK. Secure your place now for the sessions in Edinburgh on Tuesday 18 November (Responsible Innovation), in Manchester on Tuesday 25 November (AI literacy) and in Birmingham on Wednesday 26 November (Digital Adoption).