Health+ is a support programme for innovators, businesses and researchers in north Wales who are developing ideas that could improve health and social care.
North Wales has a growing health innovation ecosystem, but it can be difficult for innovators to know where to go for support, who to speak to, or how to make sure their idea responds to system needs.
Health+ aims to make that process easier by creating clearer routes into support and helping ideas develop in a way that’s practical, relevant and likely to make a difference.
For this programme, innovators may include SMEs, start-ups, researchers, university spinouts, healthcare professionals and organisations developing products, services or technologies that could improve health and social care.
Through Health+, we will:
- Provide innovators, businesses and researchers across north Wales with access to expert advice, guidance and networks
- Make health innovation support more visible, accessible and better coordinated across the region
- Review, triage and coordinate Health+ applications, enquiries and referrals across north Wales
- Provide tailored support to help companies navigate the health innovation landscape and accelerate their journey
- Align innovation activity with the priorities of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board and the wider regional ecosystem
- Strengthen collaboration between industry, the NHS, social care and academic partners in north Wales
- Support the development and adoption of solutions that address real health and social care challenges, improving outcomes for patients communities and services.
What support is available?
If you need help understanding the health and social care landscape, connecting with the right partners, developing your idea further or exploring routes to adoption, you can apply to Health+ for support.
Enquiries and applications will be reviewed to understand the opportunity, support needs and potential fit within the north Wales innovation ecosystem. Successful participants will receive support, which may include tailored advice, action planning and introductions to relevant partners and expertise.
Health and social care partners, academic institutions and wider innovation networks can also support the programme by referring innovators, sharing challenges, or helping raise awareness.
Health+ has supported a range of innovators to develop and progress their ideas. Reflecting on Healthcare Matters' experience of the programme, Adam Spiby, Managing Director said:
“The Health+ programme has been invaluable at a key stage in our journey, providing encouragement, strategic insight and access to a wider innovation ecosystem. Opportunities such as the Health+ Panel helped us sharpen Sentrix’s proposition and build credibility.
The engagement, timely touchpoints and ongoing support gave us the encouragement to move from an initial concept to establishing Sentrix as a dedicated digital care venture. This trusted point of contact through the Health+ programme has provided insight, confidence and access to opportunities that will support our future growth and collaboration.”