Thirty cutting-edge innovations have been selected to help bring life-changing solutions to the NHS and improve care for patients across the region.
Fifteen startup and fifteen scaleup companies have joined Propel Healthtech West Yorkshire, each chosen for their potential to transform healthcare delivery, improve patient care, and boost efficiency across the NHS.
Innovations include an AI companion providing 24/7 personalised mental health support and a fully remote endoscopy service allowing people to complete bowel checks at home.
Through the programme, participants will receive tailored business support, expert guidance and access to key healthcare networks to help them enter or scale within the NHS market.
Propel Healthtech West Yorkshire aims to boost regional economic growth while strengthening West Yorkshire’s position as a leading UK hub for health innovation and technology.
The accelerator programme has expanded following a £4.5 million investment from the West Yorkshire Mayor’s Investment Zone. This funding will enable the programme to support hundreds of businesses over the next four years to navigate and scale within the NHS.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire said:
“We are a region of innovators and we’re empowering thirty startups and scaleups to bring lifechanging technologies to the NHS through our investment zone.”
“West Yorkshire is home to one of the UK’s fastest growing and most dynamic healthtech clusters, and the place to be for those looking to build a better healthcare system and a country that works for all.
“From AI that supports mental health to bowel checks you can do from home, we’re backing businesses to innovate so they can cut waiting lists, give patients the high-quality care they deserve, and create the well-paid jobs of tomorrow.”
Neville Young, Director of Enterprise and Innovation, Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber said:
“We’re thrilled to launch Propel Healthtech with the support of West Yorkshire Combined Authority. The region offers a thriving environment for healthtech innovators, backed by a well-established ecosystem that supports growth and collaboration.
“Over the past six years, Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber has proudly developed the programme, helping more than 130 companies navigate their journey into the NHS and bring their innovations to life.
“With Propel Healthtech, we’re excited to support the next wave of pioneering innovations that will improve patient care, drive economic growth, and strengthen the region’s position as a leading hub for healthtech innovation. By working closely with NHS trusts and local partners, we aim to accelerate the adoption of these solutions for the benefit of patients and communities.”
Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber established the Propel HealthTech programme in 2018 to support healthtech SMEs with innovative solutions destined for the NHS. Over the last six years the accelerator has supported 130 innovators, both from the UK and overseas, created 143 jobs, with £940k invested into the local economy and £37.m investment raised by the companies.