News

The Digital North accelerator programme is a collaborative enterprise established by the four northern health innovation networks: Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber, Health Innovation Manchester, Health Innovation North West Coast and Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria. It aims to support regional digital health technology firms in the adoption and spread of proven innovations within the healthcare system.

For 2024/25, the cohort will deliver game-changing innovations that will help to address Elective Recovery and Patient Care.

The eight Innovators selected for this year’s programme are:

• Isla Health
• DocAbode
• SHREWD
• Rego
• eConsult
• Open Medical
• Remcare
• Buddy Healthcare

Digital North 2025 will take a three-pronged approach to accelerating the adoption and spread of THESE digital health technologies:

1. Bespoke Support for Innovators: Tailored guidance and resources are available to help innovators refine their solutions and navigate the complexities of the NHS.
2. Business Growth Support: Innovators can access expert advice and support to help develop sustainable business models and effectively engage with NHS stakeholders.
3. Showcasing Innovators: There will be opportunities for innovators to showcase their solutions to key decision-makers and potential partners across the region.

Helen Hoyland, Head of Commercial Innovation and Growth, Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber said: 

“The Digital North Accelerator Programme supports the NHS’s priorities around elective recovery and patient flow by focusing on the adoption of innovative technologies which reduce waiting lists and improve access to care. Aligned with the government’s three shifts—moving care into communities, leveraging technology, and prioritizing prevention—the programme supports key NHS Planning Guidance priorities, including shorter waiting times and enhanced patient pathways. Collaboration across the four northern Health Innovation Networks, aims to highlight the spread of impactful solutions.”

Sig Mikladal, Senior Programme Development Lead – Industry & Commercial Partnerships, Health Innovation Manchester said: 

“The Digital North Accelerator is a vital initiative that supports the rapid adoption of innovative digital health solutions to tackle some of the NHS’s biggest challenges, including elective recovery and patient flow. By working collaboratively across the four northern Health Innovation Networks, Health Innovation Manchester are helping to empower companies to bring game-changing technologies into real-world healthcare settings, improving patient outcomes and operational efficiency. We are proud to support these pioneering innovators in their journey to scale and make a meaningful impact across the NHS.” 

Steve Lynn, Associate Director – Commercial, Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria.

“The Digital North 2025 program, now in its fifth year, is a game-changer for digital health innovation in the North of England. By providing tailored support and resources to innovators, this program is accelerating the development and adoption of solutions that will have a real impact on patient care.” 

Steve Adams, Commercial Programme Manager, Innovation and Industry Partnerships, Health Innovation North West Coast

“This years’ Digital North Accelerator is focused on two of the big universal challenges: elective recovery and patient flow. Our goal is to support the introduction and implementation of innovations to improve care and services for patients and staff. The programme has three key components:  Providing bespoke support to innovators; business growth support needed to help to get into the NHS; and to showcase innovators to relevant stakeholders.” 

To find out more read the 2025 Digital North brochure