Propel Healthtech West Yorkshire is inviting innovators with ambitious healthtech solutions to apply for the next cohort of its flagship accelerator programme, supporting businesses to develop, test and scale innovations within the NHS and wider healthcare system.
The programme is free for successful applicants and offers a comprehensive package of support, including enhanced business development, regulatory guidance, access to NHS networks and tailored advice to support sustainable growth.
Propel Healthtech has recently secured £4.5 million in funding through the West Yorkshire Mayor’s Investment Zone, part of a wider £160 million regional Investment Zone aimed at accelerating growth across the health innovation and technology sector.
This investment will enable Propel Healthtech to expand its reach and support more innovators over the coming years. Over the next four years, the programme will support hundreds of businesses, helping them to scale in the NHS, contribute to regional economic growth and develop life-changing innovations for patients.
Delivered in collaboration with a strong network of national and international partners, Propel Healthtech provides innovators with access to organisations that bring lived experience of operating and scaling in global markets.
The programme is open to both early-stage innovators and scale-up organisations that can demonstrate traction within the NHS. Applicants must have an existing presence in West Yorkshire or be willing to establish one.
Successful organisations receive a bespoke support package tailored to their needs, maturity and growth ambitions. The six-month programme includes masterclasses, innovator workshops, events and one-to-one mentoring, alongside access to Propel Healthtech partners and the wider regional ecosystem.
Propel Healthtech is committed to building an inclusive innovation ecosystem and strongly encourages applications from underrepresented founders, including female founders, innovators from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities and entrepreneurs with a disability.
Key applications dates:
- Applications open – Monday 2nd February at 9am
- Applications close – Friday 10th April at 4pm
- Online applicant briefing session – Thursday 26th February at 10am
- Application review period starts – Monday 13th April
- Successful innovators notified – Friday 17th April
- Cohort launch event – Thursday 29th April
Dr Neville Young, Director of Enterprise & Innovation at Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber, said: “It’s always incredibly exciting to open another round of applications for Propel. Over successive cohorts, we’ve seen outstanding examples of how this collaborative, innovation-led programme supports companies to start, scale and embed their products and solutions within our local healthcare system.
“The value we are able to offer participating SMEs continues to grow year on year, and we’re proud to deliver Propel alongside partners who help shape a programme that is truly world-leading in its ambition, quality and impact.”
Tsitsi Chinyandura, Founder at Lotessa Digital Health, said: “Joining the Propel Healthtech Accelerator has been a transformative experience for both myself and Lotessa Digital Health. From the moment I stepped into the programme, the calibre of mentorship, peer cohort, and industry-relevant insights has elevated how I think about my product strategy, commercialisation, and scaling in digital health.”
Ebiere Osusu, EO Health Hub Connect Ltd, said: “My experience on the Propel programme has been incredibly eye-opening and impactful. It has given me a much clearer understanding of what it truly takes to build a health-tech business in the UK, particularly around working with the NHS. Propel has helped me move beyond just having a good idea to thinking strategically about viability, partnerships, governance, and real-world implementation. The sessions, insights, and network have been invaluable in shaping my innovation, EO HealthHub Connect, and strengthening my confidence as a founder navigating the UK health-tech ecosystem.”
“I would strongly encourage anyone considering building an innovation in health or social care to apply to Propel. The programme provides practical, honest insight, supportive challenge, and access to people who genuinely understand the system. It’s an excellent environment to learn, refine your thinking, and grow both your idea and yourself as a founder.”
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, shared her thoughts in November 2025 during the launch of a £4.5 million investment for the region as part of the Local Growth Plan. She said: “The first priority of our Local Growth Plan is to boost our region’s fastest growing business sectors, because we know that’s how we’re going to drive investment, create jobs and put more money in people’s pockets… This will help with access to finance, skills and workspace to bolster collaboration with hospitals and universities, boosting growth and helping us build a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire.”