We reconvened the Perseus User Needs & Impact Advisory Group, co-chaired by Icebreaker One and Barclays.

Date: 9 February 2026 10:00-11:30 GMT

Location: online

Secretariat: IB1

Meeting Aims:

  1. Orientate for 2026
  2. Agree workshops
  3. Review market based carbon accounting concept

Summary:

It was agreed that:

  • The primary focus for the year ahead is on concrete customer use cases and case studies.
  • Individual follow‑ups will be undertaken with Members to map internal stakeholders and decision‑making processes.
  • Each Member will prioritise identification of at least one potential ‘lighthouse’ customer.
  • Further work will document and consult on the proposed market‑based emissions methodology, including supporting FAQs.

It was noted that:

  • 2026 is the key go‑to‑market period, translating existing technical capability into demonstrable customer value.
  • Constructive early conversations have taken place with the Financial Conduct Authority regarding Perseus’ positioning with Smart Data/Open Finance initiatives.
  • to broaden scope beyond lending to include savings, asset finance, and other financial products, the phrase “access to finance” has evolved to “financial incentives”
  • £5–10bn potential addressable  market is seen as ‘directionally credible’ and indicates substantial value opportunities for all stakeholders.

It was discussed that:

  • From an SME perspective, particularly micro‑businesses, sustainability and net zero language has limited traction
  • SMEs prioritise cost reductions, operational efficiency, and resilience, with emissions reduction often viewed as a secondary benefit. Perseus’ position as embedded sustainable finance is tactically aligned with this. 
  • A key opportunity to increase TAM is ‘taking incentives directly to where the SMEs are’ (i.e. in their accounting and analysis applications) 
  • Large financial institutions face material internal constraints, with implementation timelines often measured in years rather than months
  • Technology is not the primary blocker; the key gap lies in the business case and incentive structures and this will inform our go‑to‑market approach, and clarity of financial value.

Next meeting: Monday 20 April 2026 10:00-11:30 GMT

Formal records, including attendees, are maintained by the secretariat. 

These are confidential to the Advisory Group Members.