Programme launched to scale digital health innovation in the Midlands

Health Innovation East Midlands and Health Innovation West Midlands have launched Grow a programme designed to support companies to develop and scale digital health innovations within the NHS and care sector.

The Grow Digital Health Midlands programme, which launched on 27 February 2025, invites innovators to bring forward digital solutions to address some of the most pressing challenges within the NHS and care system.

Formerly known as the East Midlands Digital Health Accelerator, the new programme offers an increased reach, scale and impact for successful applicants with exposure to the Midlands health and care system.

Tim Robinson, commercial director at Health Innovation East Midland, said: “Delivering this as a collaboration with our West Midlands counterparts significantly impacts the scale and reach of the programme, spanning 11 integrated care systems and a population of 11.8 million across the NHS Midlands region and combining our considerable expertise, networks and resource.

“This is an incredible opportunity for innovators.

“As a Health Innovation Network, we are part of a connected network of 15, not only will this programme help with Midland’s awareness and spread but there is also an opportunity for exposure at a national level.

“By working closely with NHS and care leaders, we ensure that the technologies we support are both impactful and scalable.”

Successful applicants will benefit from a bespoke package of expert support, including one-to-one business coaching, access to subject matter experts to aid product development, and significant opportunities to showcase innovations to NHS and care system decision-makers and influencers.

The programme’s focus has been shaped by engagement with local health and care leaders, aligning with national policy priorities, including Lord Darzi’s review of the NHS in England, published in September 2024.

Local NHS representatives will play an active role in selecting candidates for the programme, ensuring that the chosen innovations align with regional priorities and have the highest potential for adoption.

Judith Stewart, director of economic, commercial and business development at Health Innovation West Midlands, said: “We are excited to launch Grow as a Midlands wide programme in collaboration with our East Midlands colleagues.

“The programme has a strong legacy and has seen many success stories from companies that have really benefited from the programme.

“We look forward to seeing the innovative solutions that apply to be part of our 2025 cohort and wish them the best of luck.”

The 2025 cohort will focus on two key themes: enhancing NHS productivity and communication, and reducing demand for hospital-based care.

Applications are open until midnight on 24 March 2025. Briefing sessions will take place on 4 March 2025 and 13 March 2025 to allow potential applicants to engage directly with the programme leads and ask any questions.