Applications Open Soon: NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme and Dementia Innovators Programme
Applications will open soon in Northern Ireland for two programmes designed to support people with ideas, innovations and solutions that could improve health and care:
- NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme (CEP)
- Dementia Innovators Programme
Delivered by the NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme, these programmes help innovators develop the skills, knowledge and networks needed to take their ideas forward and create meaningful impact for patients, communities and the wider health and care system.
Now entering its 11th year, the NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme has supported more than 1,800 innovators across the UK, creating one of the largest healthcare innovation communities of its kind.
The CEP was launched in NI in 2022, championed by HIRANI, funded by the Department of Health NI and Department for the Economy NI, working in partnership with the Clinical Entrepreneur Team in NHS England, the programme has supported over 30 HSCNI entrepreneurs;
What Participants Receive
All programmes provide access to a range of learning, mentoring, networking and development opportunities, including:
Learning
- CPD-accredited Pit Stops delivered through a blend of online and in-person events
- Educational workshops and webinars covering innovation, leadership, entrepreneurship and healthcare improvement
Mentoring
- Access to experienced mentors from healthcare, academia, industry and the wider innovation ecosystem
- One-to-one expert clinics and tailored support
- Guidance on developing and refining ideas
Opportunities
- Networking with fellow innovators and industry leaders
- Access to pitching, partnership and development opportunities
- Exposure to national and international innovation networks
Community
- A supportive and inclusive peer network
- Access to an online community hub and resources
- Ongoing support from the programme team
The programmes are designed to fit around work and personal commitments, enabling participants to develop their ideas while continuing in their existing roles.
Programme Information
NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme (CEP)
Who it’s for: Clinical and non-clinical NHS staff across the UK, including doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, pharmacists, managers, administrators and support staff.
What it offers: A unique opportunity to develop innovation, leadership and entrepreneurial skills while remaining in NHS employment. Participants receive mentoring, education and practical support to help develop ideas that could improve patient care, workforce experience and service delivery.
Dementia Innovators Programme
Who it’s for: Health and social care professionals across the UK who are working on innovations to improve the lives of people affected by dementia.
What it offers: Delivered in partnership with Alzheimer’s Society, the programme provides specialist support, mentoring and networking opportunities for individuals developing dementia-focused innovations.
Key Dates
- Applications open: 19th October 2026, 8:00am
- Applications close: 20th November 2026, 4:00pm
- Review and assessment phase: November 2026 to February 2027
- Outcome notification: February 2027
- Programme starts: March 2027
Whether you’re an NHS staff member with an idea to improve healthcare, a patient whose lived experience has inspired a solution, or a professional working to improve dementia care, these programmes offer practical support to help turn ideas into action.
To find out more and apply, visit www.nhscep.com
Applications close at 4pm on 20th November 2026. Successful applicants will be notified in February 2027, with programmes commencing in March 2027.
