Six months of the NIA
As we mark six months of participation in the NHS Innovator Accelerator (NIA) programme, we sat down with Managing Director Jack to reflect on the journey so far and discuss the exciting opportunities ahead.
Can you give an overview of what the NIA programme is?
The NHS Innovation Accelerator programme is a prestigious national initiative funded by the NHS. Every year it selects twelve businesses with the potential to drive innovation within the NHS. The goal is to facilitate the growth and adoption of innovative solutions across the healthcare ecosystem.
The programme offers a range of support, including networking opportunities with other businesses in the cohort, educational seminars, group meetings and events. It helps to facilitate connections between solutions providers and potential buyers, and ensures that all businesses are vetted from a medical and business standpoint.
What sorts of events have you been to so far through the programme?
As part of the first year on the programme we have quarterly events that are mandatory to attend; we often get guest speakers with expertise in various fields, including those with politics or procurement background. I’ve also been able to attend some investor events through the NIA, and talk to potential investors interested in Healthtech.
We also have standards networking events where we engage with innovation leads and suppliers in more informal settings, last week we had one at a dim sum bar!
What are you aiming to get out of the programme over the next few years?
We have already identified some sites that are keen to work with us, so our plan over the next three years is to leverage the knowledge we’ve gained to pilot our solution in England, with the goal of converting these trials into successful sales. We’re also keen on setting up long-term partnerships that can drive our growth and impact within the NHS.
What have been your highlights so far?
Engaging with the Wessex Health Innovation Network has been a major highlight – they have been very supportive and helpful with some of our bid writing. Meeting and sharing experiences with the rest of the cohort has also been invaluable. I’m a firm believer that you get out what you put into these programmes, and it’s been fantastic to hear about all the different innovations. The sense of community and mutual support has been amazing, and I’d definitely recommend the programme to anyone looking to apply – I know the applications are currently open!