September has seen the release of over £1 million worth of support for our sector but the closing dates are tight and you need to act now to avail of the opportunities.
£50k Biotech grant
Pioneer Group have partnered with AbbVie, to launch a Golden Ticket designed to accelerate companies developing novel, transformational therapies and innovations for immunology, oncology, neuroscience, eye care, aesthetics, or other specialities including obesity, GI and hepatology.
The Programme offers the opportunity to secure one year of funding for lab space, a £50k grant, mentorship and scientific expertise to support the company’s development.
https://thepioneergroup.com/abbvie-golden-ticket-application
Innovate UK Biomedical Catalyst Accelerator – Future Medicines:
Who is it for? NI SMEs; Academics in the early stages of forming an SME; Start-ups developing innovations within the scope of Future Medicines addressing clear and evidenced healthcare challenges. Deadline: 26th September https://lyvalabs.com/future-medicines
Innovate UK Biomedical Catalyst Accelerator – Managing Chronic Conditions
Providing support, workshops, coaching, stipend for customer discovery and testing, access this grant funding competition from Innovate UK, and possible equity investment. Deadline 10th October
NHS Innovation Accelerator
The NIA Fellowship Programme is for innovators, clinicians, and healthcare professionals who have developed a validated solution that can improve patient care and transform the NHS. Apply by 12th October.
https://nhsaccelerator.com/apply-for-nia-fellowship/
MedTech Kickstarter
A new, intensive, structured 4-month (Nov 2025 to Feb 2026) programme to provide MedTech ventures the confidence to proceed at pace in taking their innovation to market. Ventures completing the programme will be eligible to apply for a closed feasibility grant competition by Innovate UK. Deadline 29th September
https://lihe.org.uk/innovate-uk-biomedical-catalyst-medtech-venture-kickstarter
Accelerating Femtech
A 10-week programme that supports UK companies with technologies for women’s health that are already developed but are looking to prove their value. Closing date 28th September
https://healthinnovationhub.smapply.io/prog/accelerating_femtech_evaluate_
Invention for Innovation
Apply to support the development of technology-assisted workforce solutions that prevent the progression of a chronic condition to multi-morbidity in community, home and care settings. Closing 2 October. NI companies can also get support with their applications from chris.mccabe@assessproject.org
Find full details here: https://www.nihr.ac.uk/funding/i4i-fast-september-2025/2025400
Primary care accelerator
Primary Care organisations are overwhelmed with ‘innovation’ and options in the market are hard to differentiate or assess. Join this accelerator to bridge the gap between NHS providers, government, investors and innovators.
https://primarycareaccelerator.com/
Mental Health innovators
The One Mind Accelerator (OMA) backs bold and determined founders of early-stage startups with the network, education and capital to build category-defining companies that radically improve the lives of people facing mental health challenges. Deadline 10th November
https://onemind.org/what-we-do/one-mind-accelerator
Additionally, HIRANI have partnered with British Business Bank to host an upcoming event on 2nd October on ‘Funding the Future of Life and Health Sciences in Northern Ireland’ at Ulster University Belfast. This event offers a deep dive into the current and future funding landscape — sharing real-world insights and uncovering the opportunities that lie ahead. You’ll also have the chance to connect directly with sector-specific investors, hear what they’re looking for, and gain practical guidance on positioning your business for investment. *There will be a limited opportunity for 1-2-1 conversations with the investors.” Click the link to find out more and register your attendance – https://www.british-business-bank.co.uk/news-and-events/events/meet-funder-life-health-sciences-spotlight
